{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"CD146 encoded by the MCAM gene is also known as the melanoma cell adhesion molecule or cell surface glycoprotein MUC18, is a 113kDa cell adhesion molecule currently used as a marker for endothelial cell lineage. Melanoma cell adhesion molecule functions as a receptor for laminin alpha 4, a matrix molecule that is broadly expressed within the vascular wall. CD146 is highly expressed by cells that are components of the blood vessel wall, including vascular endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and pericytes, activated human T cells, endothelial progenitors such as angioblasts and mesenchymal stem cells. According to literature, CD146 has been suggested to play an important role in tumor progression, implantation and placentation."}]}]}