Background：CSPG4, also named as HMW-MAA, MCSP, MCSPG, MEL-CSPG, MSK16 and NG2, is a proteoglycan playing a role in cell proliferation and migration which stimulates endothelial cells motility during microvascular morphogenesis. CSPG4 may inhibit neurite outgrowth and growth cone collapse during axon regeneration. It is cell surface receptor for collagen alpha 2(VI) which may confer cells ability to migrate on that substrate. CSPG4 may regulate MPP16-dependent degradation and invasion of type I collagen participating in melanoma cells invasion properties. It modulates the plasminogen system by enhancing plasminogen activation and inhibiting angiostatin.
