Olfactomedin-like 2A (OLFML2A)

Olfactomedin-like 2A (OLFML2A), also known as Photomedin-1, is a secreted glycoprotein belonging to the olfactomedin domain-containing protein family and subfamily IV[1][2]. The human OLFML2A gene is located on chromosome 9q33.3 and encodes a protein found predominantly in the extracellular region, participating in extracellular matrix binding and organization[1][2][3]. It binds preferentially to chondroitin sulfate-E and heparin among ECM components[2], and is widely expressed in many tissues, including lung, eye, testis, uterus, skin, and retina[1][2]. In pathological contexts, OLFML2A is upregulated in multiple cancers and promotes cell migration, invasion, proliferation, and inhibits apoptosis, acting through pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin signaling[2]. Knockdown of OLFML2A by RNAi suppresses cancer cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis, reinforcing its role as a disease-associated target[2]. OLFML2A is also involved in nervous system development in zebrafish[2], and functions such as homodimerization and ECM organization have been predicted[3]. It demonstrates molecular features typical of secreted ECM-associated glycoproteins.

Other names

Photomedin-1

Knockdown via shRNA inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis in cancer cell lines, indicating a role in tumorigenesis and cell survival. Mechanistic links to Wnt/β-catenin pathway signaling in glioma.