Matrilin-3 (MATN3)

Matrilin-3 is an extracellular matrix (ECM) protein encoded by the MATN3 gene, mainly expressed in cartilage and developing bone. It is the shortest member of the matrilin family and acts as an adapter protein, connecting collagen networks and maintaining ECM structural integrity. It contains one Von Willebrand factor A domain, four epidermal growth factor-like domains, and a C-terminal coiled-coil domain. Matrilin-3 plays a vital role in cartilage development and homeostasis, especially in chondrocyte survival and differentiation. Mutations in MATN3 are linked to skeletal diseases such as multiple epiphyseal dysplasia and osteoarthritis, chiefly through mechanisms of protein misfolding and impaired ECM organization. Matrilin-3 interacts with collagen II, IX, aggrecan, TGF-β, and BMP2, and its expression is predominantly in developing cartilage, with disease associations when overexpressed or mutated in adulthood.

Other names

MATN3EDM5HOADIPOAOADIPOS2SEMDBCDmatrilin-3