Tsukushi/TSK: Proteins and Enzymes

Tsukushi (TSK) is a secreted member of the SLRP (small leucine-rich proteoglycan) family of extracellular matrix molecules. It is named after a Japanese horsetail plant, which its expression pattern resembles in the chick primitive streak. Tsukushi binds BMP and Delta-1, contributes to formation of the primitive organizer and neural crest, and is upregulated in certain breast and bone cancer cell lines.