Angiogenesis: Thrombospondin-1 is a natural inhibitor of angiogenesis. It binds to CD36 on endothelial cells, inhibiting their proliferation and migration, which are essential for new blood vessel formation. Wound Healing: Thrombospondin plays a crucial role in wound healing. It facilitates the recruitment of inflammatory cells to the wound site, enhances the deposition of the ECM, and promotes the formation of granulation tissue. Cell Adhesion: Thrombospondin mediates cell adhesion by interacting with integrins and other cell surface receptors. This interaction helps stabilize cell positioning and facilitates communication between cells and the ECM. Apoptosis: Thrombospondin-1 can induce apoptosis in certain cell types by activating the CD36 receptor and triggering intracellular signaling pathways that lead to programmed cell death. Tumor Suppression: Thrombospondin-1 has been shown to suppress tumor growth by inhibiting angiogenesis and inducing apoptosis in tumor cells.
