Signal peptide, CUB and EGF-like domain-containing protein 3 (SCUBE3)

SCUBE3 is a member of the SCUBE family of proteins, characterized by an N-terminal signal peptide, nine EGF-like repeats, a spacer region, three cysteine-rich motifs, and a C-terminal CUB domain[1][2][4]. SCUBE3 is secreted and can associate with the cell membrane, acting as a co-receptor to modulate signaling through fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8) and its primary receptor FGFR4, thus playing a crucial role in the differentiation of fast muscle fibers during development[1][2]. There is also evidence it enhances BMP signaling, supporting bone and cartilage formation[4]. SCUBE3 is evolutionarily conserved and is expressed in diverse tissues during development, notably in the somites, neural tube, and limb buds in mice and zebrafish. The protein mediates cell–cell communication fundamental to developmental processes and tissue organization, but is not yet an established pharmacological target or disease biomarker[1][2][4][3].

Other names

SCUBE3Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 3Signal peptide, CUB domain and EGF like domain containing 3SCUBE family member 3