The CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing family (CMTM), previously termed the chemokine-like factor superfamily (CKLFSF), consists of 9 proteins, some of which have various isoforms due to alternative splicing of their respective genes.
[4] The genes encoding (i.e. directing the production of) these proteins, CKLF, CMTM1, CMTM2, CMTM3, CMTM4, CMTM5, CMTM6, CMTM7, and CMTM8, respectively, also share similar regions that encode the domains just cited for their proteins.
These structural similarities and clusterings reflect the close relationships of these proteins and genes.
[5] Studies suggest that the members of this family may be involved in the development of various cancers[4] autoimmune diseases,[5] cardiovascular diseases,[6] the male reproductive system,[7] and angiogenesis (i.e. development of new blood vessels from pre-existing blood vessels).
[8] In most of these cases, however, further studies are needed to determine if these CMTM proteins and/or their corresponding genes and mRNAs will be promising targets to help in the diagnosis, prognosis, and/or treatment of these disorders.