Asporin (ASPN) plays a vital role in regulation of chondrogenesis and helps to maintain the cartilage matrix. ASPN also facilitates transforming growth factor (TGF)-f-mediated signaling. It stimulates osteoblast collagen mineralization by interacting with collagen and calcium. Mutation in the gene is associated with the development of acetabular dysplasia (AD) and hip osteoarthritis.
