C-type lectin domain family 11 member A (Clec11a), also known as stem cell 
growth factor (SCGF), C-type lectin superfamily member 3 (CLECSF3), or 
osteolectin was initially identified as a growth factor for hematopoietic 
progenitor cells. The human Clec11a gene encodes a polypeptide of 323 amino 
acids with characteristics of a secreted glycoprotein encompassing two 
integrin-binding motifs, RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) and LDT (Leu-Asp-Thr), a putative 
leucine zipper domain, and a functional C-type lectin domain. It regulates 
hematopoietic differentiation and homeostasis and exhibits a protective effect 
against severe malarial anemia and lipotoxicity. Furthermore, Clec11a promotes 
the differentiation of mesenchymal progenitors into mature osteoblasts in vitro 
and plays an important role in the maintenance of adult skeleton age-related 
bone loss and fracture repair. Receptor ligand binding results in activation of 
downstream signaling cascades including glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3), 
β-catenin, and Wnt, resulting in the expression of osteoblast-related gene 
transcripts including Alp, Runx2, Lef1, and Axin2. In addition, Clec11a is also 
associated with the development of several cancers, including leukemia, multiple 
myeloma, and gastrointestinal tract tumors. To date, however, the mechanisms 
governing transcription regulation of the Clec11a gene are not known and 
remain to be uncovered. Understanding the function and mechanism of action of 
Clec11a will pave the way for the development of Clec11a as a novel therapeutic 
target for conditions such as cancer, anemia, and skeletal diseases.