SPARC/OSTEONECTIN Human Active Protein

This gene encodes a cysteine-rich acidic matrix-associated protein. The encoded protein is required for the collagen in bone to become calcified but is also involved in extracellular matrix synthesis and promotion of changes to cell shape. The gene product has been associated with tumor suppression but has also been correlated with metastasis based on changes to cell shape which can promote tumor cell invasion. [provided by RefSeq, Dec 2011]

Function: Appears to regulate cell growth through interactions with the extracellular matrix and cytokines. Binds calcium and copper, several types of collagen, albumin, thrombospondin, PDGF and cell membranes. There are two calcium binding sites; an acidic domain that binds 5 to 8 Ca2+ with a low affinity and an EF-hand loop that binds a Ca2+ ion with a high affinity.

Subcellular location: Secreted › extracellular space › extracellular matrix › basement membrane. Note: In or around the basement membrane. Ref.10 Ref.11 Ref.12 Ref.13

Developmental stage: Expressed at high levels in tissues undergoing morphogenesis, remodeling and wound repair.

Sequence similarities: Belongs to the SPARC family.Contains 1 EF-hand domain.Contains 1 follistatin-like domain.Contains 1 Kazal-like domain.

Sequence caution: The sequence AAA60993.1 differs from that shown. Reason: Contaminating sequence. Sequence of unknown origin in the C-terminal part.