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Updated: Apr 27, 2026

Laser Capture Microdissection of Mouse Embryonic Cartilage and Bone for Gene Expression Analysis
Published on: December 18, 2019
R-spondins: novel matricellular regulators of the skeleton
M Noelle Knight1, Kurt D Hankenson1
1Department of Clinical Studies-New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, United States; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, United States.
Abstract:
R-spondins are a family of four matricellular proteins produced by a variety of cell-types. Structurally, R-spondins contain a TSR1 domain that retains the tryptophan structure and a modified cysteine-rich CSVCTG region. In addition, the R-spondins contain two furin repeats implicated in canonical Wnt signaling. R-spondins positively regulate canonical Wnt signaling by reducing Wnt receptor turnover and thereby increasing beta-catenin stabilization. R-spondins are prominently expressed in the developing skeleton and contribute to limb formation, particularly of the distal digit. Additionally, results suggest that R-spondins may contribute to the maintenance of adult bone mass by regulating osteoblastogenesis and bone formation.
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