The Phylogenetically Conserved Molluscan Chitinase-like Protein 1 (Cg-Clp1), Homologue of Human HC-gp39, Stimulates Proliferation and Regulates Synthesis of Extracellular Matrix Components of Mammalian Chondrocytes

TitleThe Phylogenetically Conserved Molluscan Chitinase-like Protein 1 (Cg-Clp1), Homologue of Human HC-gp39, Stimulates Proliferation and Regulates Synthesis of Extracellular Matrix Components of Mammalian Chondrocytes
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2006
AuthorsBadariotti, F, Kypriotou, M, Lelong, C, Dubos, M-P, Renard, E, Galera, P, Favrel, P
JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry
Volume281
Pagination29583–29596
Abstract

Members of chitinase-like proteins (CLPs) have attracted much attention because of their ability to promote cell proliferation in insects (imaginal disc growth factors) and mammals (YKL-40). To gain insights into the molecular processes underlying the physiological control of growth and development in Lophotrochozoa, we report here the cloning and biochemical characterization of the first Lophotrochozoan CLP from the oyster (-Clp1). Gene expression profiles monitored by real time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR in different adult tissues and during development support the involvement of this protein in the control of growth and development in . Recombinant -Clp1 demonstrates a strong affinity for chitin but no chitinolytic activity, as was described for the HC-gp39 mammalian homolog. Furthermore, transient expression of -Clp1 in primary cultures of rabbit articular chondrocytes as well as the use of both purified recombinant protein and conditioned medium from -Clp1-expressing rabbit articular chondrocytes established that -Clp1 stimulates cell proliferation and regulates extracellular matrix component synthesis, showing for the first time a possible involvement of a CLP on type II collagen synthesis regulation. These observations together with the fact that -Clp1 gene organization strongly resembles that of its mammalian homologues argue for an early evolutionary origin and a high conservation of this class of proteins at both the structural and functional levels.