The acronym CCN is derived from the first three members of the family discovered, namelyCYR61 (cysteine-rich angiogenic protein 61 or CCN1),CTGF (connective tissue growth factor or CCN2), andNOV (nephroblastoma overexpressed or CCN3). Together with threeWnt-induced secreted proteins, they comprise the CCN family of matricellular proteins. These proteins have now been renamed CCN1-6 by international consensus.[6] Members of the CCN protein family are characterized by having four conservedcysteine-rich domains, which include theinsulin-like growth factor-binding domain (IGFBP), theVon Willebrand factor type C domain (VWC), the thrombospondin type 1 repeat (TSR), and aC-terminal domain (CT) with acysteine knot motif. CCN proteins have been shown to play important roles in many cellular processes, includingcell adhesion, migration,proliferation, differentiation, survival,apoptosis, andsenescence. They are also involved in biological processes includingangiogenesis, inflammation,fibrosis, wound healing andtumorigenesis.[1][2][7] CCN proteins likely constitute a hub for the coordination of cell signaling and communication.[8]
^abKular L, Pakradouni J, Kitabgi P, Laurent M, Martinerie C (March 2011). "The CCN family: a new class of inflammation modulators?".Biochimie.93 (3):377–88.doi:10.1016/j.biochi.2010.11.010.PMID21130134.
^Piszczatowski, Richard T.; Lents, Nathan H. (October 2016). "Regulation of the CCN genes by vitamin D: A possible adjuvant therapy in the treatment of cancer and fibrosis".Cellular Signalling.28 (10):1604–1613.doi:10.1016/j.cellsig.2016.07.009.ISSN1873-3913.PMID27460560.
