Secreted modular calcium-binding protein 1 (SMOC1)

Secreted modular calcium-binding protein 1 (SMOC1) is an extracellular matrix-associated glycoprotein of the SPARC (secreted protein, acidic and rich in cysteine) family that contains multiple structural domains, including a follistatin-like domain, two thyroglobulin-like domains, and an EF-hand calcium-binding motif[4]. SMOC1 is found in the basement membranes of various tissues and is highly expressed during embryonic development, particularly in the eyes, limbs, bone, brain, and blood vessels[2][3][4]. It modulates growth factor signaling (notably TGF-β and BMP pathways), promoting endothelial cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and osteoblast differentiation, while also participating in tissue patterning and homeostasis[1][4]. Genetic mutations in SMOC1 cause developmental disorders such as ophthalmo-acromelic syndrome, characterized by malformations of the eyes, hands, and feet[2][3]. Recent studies also implicate SMOC1 as a hepatokine involved in the regulation of glucose homeostasis, suggesting metabolic relevance[5]. SMOC1 is a potential, though as yet unexploited, therapeutic target for diseases involving abnormal angiogenesis, embryonic development, or metabolic dysfunction[4][5].

Other names

SPARC-related modular calcium-binding protein 1SMOC1SMOC-1Secreted modular calcium-binding protein 1OASSMOC1_HUMAN

null (not targeted by current drugs; functions through modulation of growth factor signaling and as an antagonist of ALK5/SMAD2 or via MAPK-Smad and BMP signaling)