About MFAP / Microfibrillar Associated Protein:
The microfibrillar associated protein (MFAP) is an extracellular glycoprotein matrix. The role of this matrix is evident in tissue homeostasis, microfibril assembly, and elastin genesis. The MFAP consist of five distinct family members, including:
●MFAP1
●MFAP2
●MFAP3
●MFAP4
●MFAP5
MFAP Structure
MFAP1 is linked to elastin-like fibers in the juxtacanalicular tissue, uveal region, and Schlemn’s canal base. Based on the MFAP1 role in the extracellular matrix, it’s identified that MFAP1 mutation contributes to heritable disease accepting microfibrils.
MFAP2 is a protein found in humans. This element has a major elastin-associated antigen that can make the candidate prone to inherited connective tissue disease.
MFAP3, a microfibrillar associated protein, consists of one 1g-like immunoglobulin-like domain belonging to the IncRNA class. MFAP3 is a great element of elastin-associated microfibrills. One of the significant paralogs of this gene is MFAP3L.
Microfibrillar Associated Protein Mechanism
MFAP4 is an extracellular matrix protein that’s part of the MFAP family. This protein matrix is known to co-localize sites packed with elastic fibers. It can interact with various proteins, such as desmosine, FBN1, tropoelastin, and FBN2.
MFAP4 has no specific expression pattern, and its higher levels are found in organs like vasculature and lungs.
MFAP Function
MFAP5 is an expedient maker that can help in distinguishing stroma from connective tissue. It lacks the hydrophobic carboxyl terminus. The glutamine and proline-rich regions have a close similarity with the MFAP2 glycoprotein.
Deficiency of MFAP2 can lead to aggressive osteopenia, while that of MFAP5 might lead to impaired formation of neointimal.
The primary function of microfibrils is to support tissues to control the growth factors. Therefore, they have expressed mainly in bones, periosteal matrix, among others.