The CCN family of genes currently comprises six secreted proteins (designated CCN16 i.e., Cyr61/CCN1; ctgf/CCN2; Nov/CCN3; WISP1/CCN4; WISP2/CCN5, and WISP3/CCN6) showing a strikingly conserved primary structure, with four modules sharing partial identity with IGF binding proteins, Von Willebrand protein, thrombospondin and several matricellular proteins and growth factors. The current view is that CCN proteins modulate signaling pathways that involve regulatory components of the extracellular matrix. As such, they likely act as a central hub in the regulation of mitosis, adhesion, apoptosis, extracellular matrix production, growth arrest and migration of multiple cell types. The 5th international workshop on the CCN family of genes, that was held in Toronto in 2008 brought together scientists from around the world who have an interest in the biological roles of this emerging family of proteins. On an educational point of view, the workshop was a unique place for an efficient diffusion of scientific information. The present book comprises a series of selected manuscripts that are based on the original communications that were presented at the meeting by worldwide leaders in the field of CCN biology. All major aspects of CCN proteins biology in both normal and pathological conditions are covered in this volume, from structure-functions analysis up to the involvement of CCN proteins in complex physiological functions. In addition to reports that support the Yin-Yang concept of CCN proteins driving opposite effects on the same biological process, this book also comprises several contributions that point to CCN proteins as amenable targets for therapeutic manipulation of disease processes. Together with the special issue of Journal of Cell Communication and Signaling in which authors have extended on the original data presented at the meeting, the present Proceedings provide an instant picture and unique update of the state of the art in the CCN field.

This volume provides a comprehensive guide on the Cyr61 (Cysteine-rich 61) (CCN) family of proteins and genes from basic research to cutting-edge methodologies and state-of-the-art techniques. Chapters details practical tips to overcome any obstacles with experimentation pertaining to chemistry, biology, physiology, pathology, medical and dental sciences and pharmacology of CCN proteins. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, CCN Proteins: Methods and Protocols will be a valuable resource for a wide audience, ranging from the experienced CCN researchers looking for new approaches to junior graduate students just beginning in CCN research.

This second edition volume expands on the previous edition with updated methodologies and practical tips to overcome obstacles associated with experimentation pertaining to chemistry, biology, physiology, pathology, medical and dental sciences, and pharmacology of CCN proteins. The chapters in this book cover topics such as CCN4 immunofluorescence for tissue microarray; utilizing public molecular biological databases for CCN family research; the effects of CCN4 on pancreatic beta cell proliferation; gene expression analysis of CCNs; novel cell biological assays for measuring bone remodeling activities of CCN proteins; and the function of CCN2 in tubular epithelium cells with a focus on renal fibrogenesis. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and comprehensive, CCN Proteins: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition is a valuable resource for experienced CCN researchers looking for new approaches and novice researchers just starting out in the field of CCN research.

This volume provides a comprehensive guide on the Cyr61 (Cysteine-rich 61) (CCN) family of proteins and genes from basic research to cutting-edge methodologies and state-of-the-art techniques. Chapters details practical tips to overcome any obstacles with experimentation pertaining to chemistry, biology, physiology, pathology, medical and dental sciences and pharmacology of CCN proteins. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, CCN Proteins: Methods and Protocols will be a valuable resource for a wide audience, ranging from the experienced CCN researchers looking for new approaches to junior graduate students just beginning in CCN research.

The CCN family of genes currently comprises six secreted proteins (designated CCN16 i.e., Cyr61/CCN1; ctgf/CCN2; Nov/CCN3; WISP1/CCN4; WISP2/CCN5, and WISP3/CCN6) showing a strikingly conserved primary structure, with four modules sharing partial identity with IGF binding proteins, Von Willebrand protein, thrombospondin and several matricellular proteins and growth factors. The current view is that CCN proteins modulate signaling pathways that involve regulatory components of the extracellular matrix. As such, they likely act as a central hub in the regulation of mitosis, adhesion, apoptosis, extracellular matrix production, growth arrest and migration of multiple cell types. The 5th international workshop on the CCN family of genes, that was held in Toronto in 2008 brought together scientists from around the world who have an interest in the biological roles of this emerging family of proteins. On an educational point of view, the workshop was a unique place for an efficient diffusion of scientific information. The present book comprises a series of selected manuscripts that are based on the original communications that were presented at the meeting by worldwide leaders in the field of CCN biology. All major aspects of CCN proteins biology in both normal and pathological conditions are covered in this volume, from structure-functions analysis up to the involvement of CCN proteins in complex physiological functions. In addition to reports that support the Yin-Yang concept of CCN proteins driving opposite effects on the same biological process, this book also comprises several contributions that point to CCN proteins as amenable targets for therapeutic manipulation of disease processes. Together with the special issue of Journal of Cell Communication and Signaling in which authors have extended on the original data presented at the meeting, the present Proceedings provide an instant picture and unique update of the state of the art in the CCN field.