Target intelligence / Profile preview

Nell-like molecule 1 (NELL-1)

Target
NELL-1
Molecular classification
Secreted signaling molecule, Extracellular matrix-associated protein, Multi-domain protein: contains EGF-like, von Willebrand factor C-like, thrombospondin-type N-terminal domains
01

Overview

Nell-like molecule 1 (NELL-1) is a secreted, multimodular protein characterized by EGF-like, von Willebrand factor C-like, and thrombospondin-type N-terminal domains[2][1][4]. NELL-1 plays a pivotal role in promoting osteoblast differentiation, bone formation, and skeletal development by binding to integrin α3β1 and activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway[2][3]. It is also involved in cell adhesion, extracellular matrix interactions, neural development, and angiogenesis[1][2][5]. While recombinant NELL-1 is being studied as a biologic therapeutic agent for osteoporosis and bone regeneration, there is no recognized "Nell-like molecule 1 receptor" in human physiology. The term "Nell-like molecule 1 receptor" is therefore considered incorrect or misleading in current scientific contexts.

Other names
NELL1NELL-1 proteinNel-like protein 1
02

Mechanism of action

NELL-1 binds to integrins (notably integrin α3β1 and β1) Activates Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways Interacts with heparan sulfate proteoglycans and extracellular matrix molecules

03

Biological functions

Regulation of osteogenesis and chondrogenesis (bone and cartilage formation)Promotion of osteoblast differentiation and mineralizationRegulation of cell adhesionModulation of angiogenesisNeural development
04

Disease associations

Skeletal disorders (osteoporosis, craniosynostosis, bone developmental defects)Possible roles in cancer and tissue regeneration (suggested but not fully established)Dental and orofacial tissue regeneration
05

Safety considerations

High or dysregulated NELL-1 expression may contribute to craniosynostosis and abnormal bone growthSystemic delivery in animal models is still being evaluated for adverse effects
06

Interacting drugs

None established or clinically validated; recombinant NELL-1 protein is being investigated as a potential therapeutic agent
07

Biomarkers

No clinically validated biomarkers for NELL-1-based therapy or patient selection; NELL-1 expression may be investigated as a marker of osteogenic capacity in research contexts

Beyond the preview

Go deeper on Nell-like molecule 1 (NELL-1).

Explore the evidence, development activity, and competitive landscape with Gosset’s full data platform.

Drug pipeline

Full profile access

Explore the programs pursuing this target and their development progress.

  • Drug candidates
  • Developers
  • Development stage

Clinical trials

Full profile access

Follow the clinical studies evaluating therapies directed at this target.

  • Trial design
  • Status
  • Readouts

Competitive landscape

Full profile access

Compare approaches across drug candidates, modalities, and indications.

  • Programs
  • Modalities
  • Indications

Literature & evidence

Full profile access

Investigate the research and source evidence behind target biology and development.

  • Publications
  • Sources
  • Analysis

Patents

Full profile access

Explore patent activity around therapies and technologies addressing this target.

  • Patents
  • Assignees
  • Technologies

Research & analysis

Full profile access

Connect target biology, drug development, and emerging evidence in your research.

  • Biology
  • Development news
  • Analysis

Bring the full picture into focus.

See how Gosset can support your research on Nell-like molecule 1 (NELL-1).

Explore the full profile

Gosset Free

Get started with Gosset.

Enter your work email and we’ll be in touch with next steps.

Work email preferred.

Book a call