| Type: | Family | Name: | Matrilin-1 |
| Description: | Matrilin family consists of four non-collagenous extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins []. Matrilin-1 and matrilin-3 are expressed mainly in cartilage, while matrilin-2 and matrilin-4 are widely distributed in many connective tissues []. Typical matrilin has the similar domain structure with two von Willebrand factor A-like (VWA) domains interconnected by a variable number of epidermal growth factor-like (EGF) domains. The subunits form trimers or tetramers via a C-terminal alpha-helical coiled-coil domain [].Cartilage matrix protein (CMP) or matrilin-1 is a major component of the extracellular matrix of non-articular cartilage []. Cartilage is an avascular tissue composed predominantly of proteoglycans, several types of collagen, and noncollagenous matrix proteins. Cartilage resistance to capillary invasion is due to the presence of endogenous angiogenesis inhibitors. Matrilin-1 has been identified as an inhibitor of neovascularisation []. | Short Name: | Matrilin-1 |
