Recombinant Proteins
Product List
GREM1 Human
GREM1 Human Recombinant
GREM2 Human
GREM2 Human Recombinant
Introduction
Gremlin, also known as Gremlin-1, is a highly conserved glycoprotein that belongs to the cysteine knot superfamily. It is part of the DAN family of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonists. Gremlin primarily functions as an inhibitor in the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway, where it inhibits bone morphogenesis and is implicated in various disorders, including increased bone formation and several cancers .
Key Biological Properties: Gremlin-1 is a 20.7-kDa protein composed of 184 amino acids. It contains a cysteine knot, which is a characteristic feature of the cysteine knot superfamily .
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: Gremlin-1 is expressed in various tissues, including the kidney, lung, liver, and skin. It is primarily involved in organogenesis and limb patterning. Its expression is also noted in several cancers, where it plays a role in tumor progression and metastasis .
Primary Biological Functions: Gremlin-1 functions as an antagonist to BMPs, particularly BMP2 and BMP4. This antagonistic interaction is crucial for normal limb bud development and digit formation. It also plays a role in kidney and lung branching morphogenesis .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: While Gremlin-1’s primary role is in development and organogenesis, it also has implications in immune responses. Its expression in various cancers suggests a role in tumor immune evasion and progression .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: Gremlin-1 binds to BMP ligands, preventing them from interacting with their receptors. This inhibition allows for the up-regulation of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and sonic hedgehog (SHH) ligands, which are essential for limb bud development .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: Gremlin-1 interacts with BMP receptors and VEGF receptors. Its binding to VEGF receptors activates vascular differentiation and proliferation during development .
Transcriptional Regulation: The expression of Gremlin-1 is regulated by cis-regulatory modules (CRMs) that act as both silencers and activators. These CRMs control when and where Gremlin-1 is transcribed .
Post-Translational Modifications: Gremlin-1 undergoes glycosylation and phosphorylation, which are essential for its function and stability .
Biomedical Research: Gremlin-1 is a target of interest in cancer research due to its role in tumor progression and metastasis. It is also studied in the context of fibrotic diseases, such as kidney and lung fibrosis .
Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Strategies: Gremlin-1’s expression in various cancers makes it a potential biomarker for cancer diagnosis. Therapeutically, targeting Gremlin-1 could help in treating cancers and fibrotic diseases .
Development to Aging and Disease: Gremlin-1 plays a crucial role throughout the life cycle, from embryonic development to aging. During development, it is essential for limb bud formation and organogenesis. In adulthood, its reactivation in wound healing situations can lead to fibrosis. Its overexpression is also associated with various cancers, making it a significant factor in disease progression .
