Mouse Endoglin (ENG) Protein

Background

Endoglin, encoded by the ENG gene, is a key transmembrane glycoprotein in the TGF-β (transforming growth factor-beta) receptor complex, with significant roles in vascular development and endothelial cell biology. Also known as CD105, endoglin is crucial in angiogenesis and vascular homeostasis. It is prominently expressed on the surface of endothelial cells, especially in active angiogenic areas, as well as in other cell types like smooth muscle cells and some immune cells. Endoglin regulates cellular responses to TGF-β signaling, particularly within endothelial cells, which is essential for their proliferation, migration, and survival. Mutations in the ENG gene are linked to hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia type 1 (HHT1), a genetic disorder characterized by abnormal blood vessel formation, causing arteriovenous malformations, frequent nosebleeds, and other bleeding-related symptoms. Endoglin also plays a prominent role in cancer biology, where it can act as a biomarker for tumor angiogenesis. Its dual role in promoting normal vascular health and contributing to disease makes it an essential molecule in vascular biology research.