Cellular communication network factor 6 (CCN6)

Cellular communication network factor 6 (CCN6), previously known as WISP3, is a secreted matricellular protein belonging to the CCN family, which is characterized by four cysteine-rich domains and association with the extracellular matrix[1][3]. CCN6 is primarily produced by chondrocytes and is involved in the regulation of diverse cellular and developmental processes such as cell adhesion, proliferation, migration, differentiation, and survival, especially in bone and cartilage tissue[1][3][5][7]. Mutations in the CCN6 gene are the cause of progressive pseudorheumatoid dysplasia, a juvenile-onset autosomal recessive skeletal disorder resulting in cartilage defects and joint stiffness[2][5][7]. In cancer, particularly breast cancer, CCN6 acts as a tumor suppressor and its loss is associated with aggressive disease phenotypes[4][6]. CCN6 also participates in the modulation of mitochondrial function and electron transport in musculoskeletal tissue[2][3]. As of now, there are no therapeutic drugs directly targeting CCN6, but its loss or mutation serves as a key disease biomarker for both skeletal disorders and specific breast cancers[4][5][6][7].

Other names

WISP3WNT1-inducible-signaling pathway protein 3WNT1 inducible signaling pathway protein 3CCN family member 6WISP-3LIBCPPACPPDPPRDEpididymis secretory sperm binding proteinWISP3_HUMAN