Molecular Classification
Proteoglycan, Extracellular matrix protein
Other Names
AGC1, CSPG1, MSK16, CSPGCP, Cartilage-specific proteoglycan core protein, Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 1, Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan core protein 1
Disease Roles
OsteoarthritisInflammatory conditions leading to cartilage erosionDegenerative joint diseases

Aggrecan core protein Overview

Aggrecan is an essential structural macromolecule within cartilaginous tissues whose unique bottlebrush architecture enables it to provide resistance against compression through water retention—a property vital for healthy joint mechanics. Its degradation underlies many degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis due to loss of this critical load-bearing capacity.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibition of aggrecan degradation (potential therapeutic strategy)

Biological Functions

Resisting compressive forces in cartilage
Hydration of cartilage
Load-bearing in articular cartilage
Cell-matrix interactions
Tissue maintenance

Disease Associations

Osteoarthritis
Inflammatory conditions leading to cartilage erosion
Degenerative joint diseases

Safety Considerations

  • Potential for off-target effects on other proteoglycans
  • Challenges in delivering therapeutics to cartilage effectively

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
Aggrecan fragments in synovial fluid (for cartilage degradation)