Anti-ASPN

This gene encodes a cartilage extracellular protein that is member of the small leucine-rich proteoglycan family. The encoded protein may regulate chondrogenesis by inhibiting transforming growth factor-beta 1-induced gene expression in cartilage. This protein also binds collagen and calcium and may induce collagen mineralization. Polymorphisms in the aspartic acid repeat region of this gene are associated with a susceptibility to osteoarthritis, and also with intervertebral disc disease. Alternative splicing of this gene results in multiple transcript variants. Protein function: Negatively regulates periodontal ligament (PDL) differentiation and mineralization to ensure that the PDL is not ossified and to maintain homeostasis of the tooth-supporting system. Inhibits BMP2-induced cytodifferentiation of PDL cells by preventing its binding to BMPR1B/BMP type-1B receptor, resulting in inhibition of BMP-dependent activation of SMAD proteins. Critical regulator of TGF-beta in articular cartilage and plays an essential role in cartilage homeostasis and osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis. Negatively regulates chondrogenesis in the articular cartilage by blocking the TGF-beta/receptor interaction on the cell surface and inhibiting the canonical TGF-beta/Smad signal. Binds calcium and plays a role in osteoblast-driven collagen biomineralization activity. [The UniProt Consortium]