RSPO1 is a secreted protein,containing 2 FU(furin-like) repeats and 1 TSP type-1 domain and belonging to the R-spondin family. RSPO1 is required for the early development of gonads, regardless of sex. It has been found in mice only eleven days after fertilization. To induce cell proliferation, it acts synergistically with WNT4. They help stabilize beta catenin, which activates downstream targets. RSPO1 is necessary in female sex development. It augments the WNT/beta catenin pathway to oppose male sex development. In critical gonadal stages, between six and nine weeks after fertilization, the ovaries upregulate it while the testes downregulate it. RSPO1 can potentially aid in the treatment of mucositis, which is characterized by inflammation of the oral cavity. This unfortunate condition often accompanies chemotherapy and radiation in cancer patients with head and neck tumors.
