AHNAK - AHNAK nucleoprotein | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

AHNAK nucleoprotein, also known as neuroblast differentiation-associated protein, is a multifunctional protein found in various tissues and cell types. It is primarily localized in the nucleus, cytoplasm, and plasma membrane, where it plays crucial roles in diverse cellular processes. AHNAK functions as a scaffold protein, interacting with other proteins and cellular structures to regulate processes such as cell adhesion, migration, calcium signaling, and membrane repair. Additionally, AHNAK has been implicated in various pathological conditions, including cancer metastasis and viral infections. Its expression levels and subcellular localization are tightly regulated, and dysregulation of AHNAK has been associated with disease progression. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying AHNAK's functions provides insights into its roles in cellular physiology and pathology, offering potential targets for therapeutic intervention in cancer and other diseases. Ongoing research continues to uncover the intricate functions of AHNAK and its implications for human health.

rotein Structure:

• Molecular Weight: AHNAK is a giant protein, typically around 700 kDa.
• Primary Structure: Composed of approximately 5,000 amino acids.
• Domains: AHNAK contains several repeated motifs and a unique C-terminal region. It has multiple proline-rich and glycine-rich regions, contributing to its flexibility and ability to interact with other proteins.
• Subcellular Localization: AHNAK is found in the nucleus, cytoplasm, and associated with the plasma membrane, particularly in areas of cell-cell contact.
• Secondary and Tertiary Structures: The protein structure includes coiled-coil domains and multiple phosphorylation sites, which facilitate its interaction with various binding partners.

Classification and Subtypes:

• Protein Family: AHNAK belongs to a family of structural proteins involved in cell architecture and signaling.
• Isoforms: Alternative splicing of AHNAK mRNA can result in different isoforms, which may have distinct functions and localization patterns.

Function and Biological Significance:

• Cell Architecture: AHNAK contributes to the organization of the cytoskeleton and is involved in the formation of membrane structures like caveolae, which are small invaginations in the plasma membrane.
• Cell Signaling: AHNAK interacts with several signaling proteins, influencing pathways that regulate cell growth, migration, and survival.
• Calcium Homeostasis: AHNAK is implicated in calcium signaling, particularly in muscle cells, where it interacts with annexins and other calcium-binding proteins.
• Barrier Function: In epithelial cells, AHNAK contributes to the integrity of the cell membrane and intercellular junctions, playing a role in maintaining tissue structure and barrier function.

Interactions:

• Annexins: AHNAK interacts with annexins, a family of proteins that bind phospholipids in a calcium-dependent manner, playing a role in membrane-related processes.
• S100 Proteins: AHNAK binds to S100 proteins, which are involved in calcium signaling and the regulation of protein phosphorylation.
• Caveolin-3: In muscle cells, AHNAK associates with caveolin-3, a component of caveolae, influencing muscle function and signaling.
• Actin: AHNAK interacts with actin filaments, contributing to cytoskeletal organization and dynamics.

Clinical Issues:

• Cardiomyopathies: Mutations or dysregulation of AHNAK have been associated with cardiomyopathies, where the structure and function of heart muscle are compromised.
• Cancer: Altered expression of AHNAK has been observed in various cancers, including breast cancer, where it may influence tumor progression and metastasis.
• Neurological Disorders: Due to its role in cell signaling and structure, AHNAK may be implicated in neurological disorders, although specific diseases have not been extensively characterized.
• Skin Disorders: AHNAK is involved in the integrity of epithelial barriers, and dysregulation can contribute to skin disorders and impaired wound healing.

Summary:

AHNAK nucleoprotein is a large, multifunctional protein involved in the structural organization of cells and regulation of various signaling pathways. Its interactions with annexins, S100 proteins, caveolin-3, and actin underscore its role in maintaining cellular architecture and function. Clinically, AHNAK is relevant in cardiomyopathies, cancer, neurological disorders, and skin integrity, highlighting its significance in both normal physiology and disease. Understanding AHNAK's diverse roles provides insights into its potential as a therapeutic target in various conditions.