Optimedin: Proteins and Enzymes

Optimedin, also known as olfactomedin 3 (OLFM3) and Noelin-3, is a protein expressed in the eyes, brain, and lungs. The protein is known to stimulate the formation of cell adherent and cell-cell tight junctions. Additionally, its expression modulates cell migration and the organization of the cytoskeleton. In one study, cells expressing high levels of optimedin showed higher growth rates and stronger adhesion to the collagen extracellular matrix as compared with control cells. Optimedin has also been identified as a candidate gene for glaucoma.