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Physiology of thrombospondin.
1Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53706.
Annual Review of Medicine
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Thrombospondin, a protein from platelets and cells, interacts with cell surfaces and the environment. It influences cell growth, movement, and blood clotting, with early research exploring its role in diseases.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Hematology
Background:
- Thrombospondin is a large glycoprotein released from activated platelets and secreted by growing cells.
- It interacts with cell surface and extracellular matrix components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the known functions of thrombospondin.
- To highlight its potential roles in cellular processes and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of thrombospondin's known interactions and functions.
- Analysis of its involvement in platelet aggregation, fibrinolysis, cell adhesion, migration, and cell cycle progression.
Main Results:
- Thrombospondin binds to various cellular and extracellular molecules.
- It modulates critical processes such as platelet aggregation, fibrin formation/lysis, and cell migration.
- Its role in cell cycle progression is also suggested.
Conclusions:
- Thrombospondin is a versatile protein with significant roles in physiological processes.
- Further research is needed to elucidate its specific involvement in disease pathogenesis.
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