EMI domain containing 1 (EMID1)

EMI domain containing 1 (EMID1) is a secreted protein characterized by the presence of an EMI domain, a cysteine-rich module implicated in protein–protein interactions within the extracellular matrix. EMID1 is a member of the Emu gene family, which includes other extracellular matrix proteins such as EMID2, EMILINs, and Multimerins[3]. Functional studies, especially in murine models and human cancers, show that EMID1 promotes cell proliferation by encouraging cell cycle progression, and also inhibits cell motility and matrix adhesion by altering cytoskeletal dynamics and disrupting cell–matrix interactions. EMID1 is specifically and highly expressed in certain normal tissues (e.g., chief cells of the gastric fundic gland and pancreatic islet β cells), implying cell-type-specific roles. In cancer models, EMID1's expression is associated with increased proliferation and reduced invasion of tumor cells, and it may play a role in alternative, invasion-independent pathways of metastasis. Though it contributes to extracellular matrix organization and cell signaling, EMID1 is not currently an established therapeutic target or biomarker[3].

Other names

EMID1EMI domain-containing protein 1Emu family member