Testican-2 (SPOCK2): A multifunctional matricellular regulator.
- 2026-06
- Matrix biology : journal of the International Society for Matrix Biology 146
- Yan Wang
- Johannes F van Agthoven
- Eugene P Rhee
- Donghai Wen
- PubMed: 42114762
- DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2026.102013
Study Design
- Type
- Review
Testican-2 (SPOCK2) is a secreted, extracellular matrix-associated proteoglycan that modulates cell-matrix interactions, extracellular proteolysis, and tissue-specific signaling across multiple organs. Beyond its initial characterization in the central nervous system, subsequent studies have established roles in the lung, pancreas, bone, and kidney, where testican-2 regulates tissue remodeling and extracellular matrix dynamics under both physiological and disease conditions. Mechanistic, genetic, and proteomic studies highlight its dual role as a biomarker and functional modulator, with kidney disease emerging as a clinically relevant context. However, upstream regulators, cell-type-specific functions, context-dependent effects, and the structural basis underlying its domain-specific interactions remain to be fully defined. This review synthesizes current evidence on testican-2 biology across tissues and disease settings, highlighting emerging themes and unresolved questions. A clearer understanding of its regulation and function will help refine its value as a biomarker and potential therapeutic target.