Cellular communication network 1 (CCN1) (CCN1)

Cellular communication network 1 (CCN1), historically known as Cyr61, is a secreted matricellular protein that belongs to the CCN family. It plays a fundamental role in regulating diverse cellular processes including adhesion, migration, proliferation, and differentiation by interacting with various cell surface receptors, most notably integrins and heparan sulfate proteoglycans. CCN1 is a critical mediator of angiogenesis and tissue repair, but its dysregulation is strongly linked to the progression of several diseases, particularly cancer and chronic inflammatory conditions. In oncology, CCN1 often acts as a pro-tumorigenic factor by promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis, and resistance to therapy, although it can exhibit tumor-suppressive properties in specific contexts like endometrial cancer. Due to its involvement in pathological neovascularization and fibrosis, CCN1 has emerged as a promising therapeutic target, with various neutralizing antibodies and small molecule inhibitors under investigation to disrupt its interaction with the extracellular matrix and associated signaling hubs.

Other names

Cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61Cyr61GIG1Protein GIG1IGFBP10Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 10

Inhibition of CCN1 binding to integrin receptors (such as alpha-v beta-3, alpha-6 beta-1, and alpha-IIb beta-3) to block downstream signaling pathways involved in angiogenesis and tumor progression.