IMMUNOREGULATORY PROPERTIES OF THROMBOSPONDIN-1, A EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX COMPONENT AND ANGIOGENESIS INHIBITOR

Abstract

Abstract. Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) is an extracellular matrix glycoprotein that can positively or negatively regulate adhesion, motility, proliferation, and survival of various cell types, including cells of the immune system. It is secreted by numerous cell types, and its expression is predominant in areas of tissue injury or remodeling. Initially, TSP-1 was identified as one of the first endogenous inhibitors of angiogenesis. This factor is known to be a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis, as demonstrated by in vitro inhibition of endothelial cell proliferation and in vivo vascular growth. Since then, much has been learned about its ability to modulate cell behavior during embryonic development, to maintain normal homeostasis of adult organism, wound healing, immune response, tumor growth. TSP-1 is a large, trimeric, matricellular protein, composed of multiple structural domains that interact with a diverse array of receptors and molecules. Many hematopoietic and immune cells are able of both producing TSP-1 and responding to it. This review presents a current understanding on participation of TSP-1 in differentiation, maturation and functioning of immune cells. (Med. Immunol., vol. 10, N 6, pp 499-506).

Keywords

• thrombospondin
• extracellular matrix
• angiogenesis
• inflammation