CTGF

CTGF, also known as CCN2 or connective tissue growth factor, is a matricellular protein of the CCN family of extracellular matrix-associated heparin-binding proteins. it is encoded by CTCF gene. Members of the CCN protein family, including CTGF, are structurally characterized by having four conserved, cysteine-rich domains.CTCF is mainly secreted by vascular endothelial cells. It has important roles in many biological processes, including cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, angiogenesis, skeletal development, and tissue wound repair, and is critically involved in fibrotic disease and several forms of cancers.For example,it involves in promoting proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes, and Mediating heparin- and divalent cation-dependent cell adhesion in many cell types including fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, endothelial and epithelial cells. Enhances fibroblast growth factor-induced DNA synthesis.