The TSR superfamily is a diverse family of extracellular matrix and 
transmembrane proteins, many of which have functions related to regulating 
matrix organization, cell-cell interactions and cell guidance. This review 
samples some of the contemporary literature regarding TSR superfamily members 
(e.g. F-spondin, UNC-5, ADAMTS, papilin, and TRAP) where specific functions are 
assigned to the TSR domains. Combining these observations with the published 
crystal structure of the TSRs of thrombospondin-1 may hold a key to the 
development of therapeutic agents for fighting parasitic infection and tumor 
growth.