This gene is a member of the R-spondin family and encodes a secreted activator protein with two cystein-rich, furin-like domains and one thrombospondin type 1 domain. In mice, the protein induces the rapid onset of crypt cell proliferation and increases intestinal epithelial healing, providing a protective effect against chemotherapy-induced adverse effects. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008].
Choi, Chang, Cho, Kang, Shin, Song, Lee et al.: "The association of radiographic progression with serum R-spondin 1 (RSPO1) levels or Dickkopf-1 (DKK1)/RSPO1 ratios in rheumatoid arthritis patients: clinical evidence for reciprocal inhibition ..." in: Scandinavian journal of rheumatology, Vol. 43, Issue 6, pp. 453-61, (2014) (PubMed).