Open AccessThe role of SPARC in extracellular matrix assembly
Author(s) -
Bradshaw Amy D.
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
journal of cell communication and signaling
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.329
H-Index - 44
eISSN - 1873-961X
pISSN - 1873-9601
DOI - 10.1007/s12079-009-0062-6
Subject(s) - extracellular matrix , matricellular protein , microbiology and biotechnology , osteonectin , basal lamina , collagen vi , matrix (chemical analysis) , function (biology) , chemistry , biology , pathology , anatomy , medicine , biochemistry , ultrastructure , alkaline phosphatase , chromatography , osteocalcin , enzyme
SPARC is a collagen‐binding matricellular protein. Expression of SPARC in adult tissues is frequently associated with excessive deposition of collagen and SPARC‐null mice fail to generate a robust fibrotic response to a variety of stimuli. This review summarizes recent advancements in the characterization of the binding of SPARC to collagens and describes the results of studies that implicate a function for SPARC in the regulation of the assembly of basal lamina and fibrillar collagen in the ECM. Potential cellular mechanisms that underlie SPARC activity in ECM deposition are also explored.