Von Willebrand factor C and EGF domain-containing protein (VWCE)

Von Willebrand factor C and EGF domain-containing protein (VWCE) is an extracellular matrix-associated protein that contains both von Willebrand factor type C (VWC) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) domains, placing it in the broader von Willebrand factor domain-containing protein family. VWCE functions as a tumor suppressor, most notably in breast cancer, where its downregulation is associated with increased malignancy, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Mechanistically, VWCE negatively regulates cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, at least in part by downregulating the actin regulator WDR1 and impeding epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The gene is also known as URG11 and was first identified as upregulated in response to Hepatitis B Virus X (HBx) protein, implicating it in viral pathogenesis and as a possible cancer/inflammation biomarker. VWCE is found in a variety of extracellular proteins, often involved in multimeric complex formation and with structural roles in tissue homeostasis.\n\nNotes:\n- VWCE/URG11 should not be confused with the canonical "von Willebrand factor" (VWF) glycoprotein involved in hemostasis; instead, it is a distinct, domain-containing member of the extended VWF protein family.\n- No drugs are currently known to target VWCE directly, nor are specific mechanisms of drug action or safety concerns described for this protein in the literature as of the latest available research.\n- VWCE is considered a novel tumor suppressor and potential biomarker, especially in breast cancer, and may play a broader role in cancer and viral pathogenesis.

Other names

URG11FLJ32009VWC1HBV X protein up-regulated gene 11 proteinHBxAg up-regulated gene 11 protein