SMOC2 and Nephropathy: The protein encoded by the SMOC2 gene, upregulated in CCC, is highly expressed during wound healing and matrix assembly and remodeling, processes associated with fibrosis in CCC [32]; Transgenic mice overexpressing or underexpressing the Smoc2 gene displayed increased /decreased kidney fibrosis in a kidney damage model, by modulating fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition [33].