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Updated: Jun 19, 2026

ECM Protein Nanofibers and Nanostructures Engineered Using Surface-initiated Assembly
Published on: April 17, 2014
The role of SPARC in extracellular matrix assembly
Abstract:
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.
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