Cartilage acidic protein 1 (CRTAC1)

Cartilage acidic protein 1 (CRTAC1) is a glycosylated extracellular matrix protein expressed at high levels in the deeper zones of articular cartilage and in select regions of the brain. It contains four FG-GAP domains and one EGF-like domain, with an RGD integrin-binding motif in human protein, suggesting a role in cell adhesion and matrix interactions[2][5]. CRTAC1 forms part of the beta-propeller protein family and has a demonstrated propensity to form amyloid-like aggregates, which may be linked to disease association[1]. Alternative splicing produces isoforms with distinct functions, such as LOTUS, involved in neuronal growth cone regulation[2]. CRTAC1 is emerging as a plasma biomarker for osteoarthritis risk assessment and has been implicated in syndromic diseases including neurofibromatosis and pulmonary systemic sclerosis[3][5]. It is not currently a direct target for drugs but has diagnostic relevance.

Other names

CEP-68CRTAC1BLOTUS

Not directly targeted by drugs; potential mechanisms include modulation of cartilage matrix integrity and neuronal growth cone stabilization