ADAM12 Human

ADAM12 is part of the A Disintegrin and Metalloprotease protein family wjich are membrane-anchored proteins structurally related to snake venom disintegrins, and are involved in a range of biological processes concerning cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, including fertilization, muscle development, and eurogenesis.
ADAM12 has 2 alternatively spliced transcripts, a shorter/soluble secreted form called S-isoform and a longer membrane-bound form call L isoform. The S isoform is found to stimulate myogenesis. The short & soluble isoform lacks the transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains. ADAM12 S Isoform expression is limited to the placenta, embryo and foetus although levels have been detected in some tumour cell lines. ADAM12 takes part in skeletal muscle regeneration, specifically at the onset of cell fusion. ADAM12 is involved in macrophage-derived giant cells (MGC) and osteoclast formation from mononuclear precursors (by similarity).