Synthetic Matrix Phenotype
Gene co-expression module in Smooth muscle cells
| Category | ECM remodeling |
|---|---|
| Genes | 10 |
| Annotation certainty | 3 of 5 |
| Annotation consistency | 8 of 10 genes have a known function matching the annotation |
Why this annotation
Hubs GJA1 (connexin-43), APOE, TM4SF1, MXRA5, GAS6, CFD (adipsin), PLAU and POSTN constitute the classic synthetic/secretory mesenchymal-fibroblast signature: matrix-remodeling (MXRA5, POSTN, PLAU), lipid/complement secretion (APOE, CFD) and growth-factor signaling (GAS6). In smooth muscle cells this pattern marks the de-differentiated, ECM-producing 'synthetic' phenotype (or admixed fibroblast signal), the direct counterpart of the contractile module M78 in the same neighborhood — the two are anticorrelated phenotypic poles of SMC modulation. MAP1LC3A and PHF14 are weak peripheral members.
Genes
APOE, CFD, GAS6, GJA1, MAP1LC3A, MXRA5, PHF14, PLAU, POSTN, TM4SF1
Most correlated modules
- Matrix Crosslinking Activation · correlation 0.87
- Microfibril ECM Assembly · correlation 0.83
- Collagen-Laminin Deposition · correlation 0.77
- Lysosomal Glycoprotein Catabolism · correlation 0.77
- Notch-TGFbeta Signaling · correlation 0.76
- Neural Adhesion Program · correlation 0.73
- FOXF2 Mesenchymal Patterning · correlation 0.73
Module annotations were drafted by a large language model from the module's genes, then reviewed and approved by a domain expert. See sources & licences.