Asporin Proteins and Enzymes

ASPN, or Asporin, belongs to a family of leucine-rich repeat (LRR) proteins associated with the cartilage matrix. The name asporin reflects the unique aspartate-rich N terminus and the overall similarity to decorin. Asporin is expressed in a variety of human tissues with higher levels in osteoarthritic articular cartilage, aorta, uterus, heart and liver. The function of Asporin is unclear, but available data indicates a collagen binding capacity.