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Syndecan-1

Meaning

Syndecan-1, also known as CD138, is a prominent transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan primarily found on the surface of epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and plasma cells. This molecule functions as a coreceptor, engaging with various ligands to regulate cellular processes. Its structure includes an extracellular domain that binds to growth factors and extracellular matrix components, a transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic tail that interacts with the cell’s internal signaling machinery.