Functional Domains of Tenascin

Tenascin from chick embryos is an extracellular matrix protein with disulfide-linked subunits of Mr = 190–220,000 and a six-armed appearance in the electron microscope (EM) (cf. Chiquet-Ehrismann et al 1988). Its expression during development suggests a function in morphogenesis (Chiquet-Ehrismann et al 1986). Several activities of tenascin can be assayed in vitro: hemagglutination, interference with fibronectin-mediated cell spreading, promotion of neurite outgrowth, and stimulation of DNA synthesis (Chiquet-Ehrismann et al 1986, 1988, Chiquet 1989). We are trying to assign various functions to specific domains on the molecule.