TES - Testin LIM Domain Protein| Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background

Testin LIM Domain Protein (TES) is a cytoskeletal protein encoded by the TES gene located on chromosome 7q31.1. TES is a member of the LIM domain protein family, which is characterized by the presence of LIM domains—zinc-finger motifs involved in protein-protein interactions. TES is known to play a significant role in cell adhesion, migration, and the maintenance of the cytoskeleton. It was initially identified due to its potential tumor suppressor functions, as it is often downregulated or deleted in various cancers, including prostate, breast, and colorectal cancers. TES is involved in linking signaling pathways to the cytoskeleton and has been implicated in various cellular processes such as growth regulation and apoptosis.

Protein Structure

TES is characterized by several key structural features:

• LIM Domains: TES contains three LIM domains at the C-terminus. LIM domains are double zinc-finger motifs that mediate protein-protein interactions and are crucial for the functional versatility of TES.
• Proline-rich Region: Located in the N-terminal half of the protein, this region is important for binding to other cytoskeletal proteins and signaling molecules.
• PET Domain: A region unique to TES that contributes to its interaction with other proteins involved in cytoskeletal organization.

Classification and Subtypes

TES is classified within the LIM domain protein family. Although TES does not have distinct subtypes, its interactions and functions can vary significantly depending on the cellular context and the presence of specific binding partners.

Function and Biological Significance

TES is involved in several crucial cellular functions:

• Cell Adhesion: TES interacts with focal adhesion proteins, playing a key role in the formation and maintenance of cell-matrix adhesion sites.
• Cell Migration: By influencing the organization of the actin cytoskeleton, TES regulates cell movement, which is essential for processes such as wound healing and cancer metastasis.
• Tumor Suppression: TES functions as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting cell proliferation and promoting apoptosis. Its downregulation or deletion is often associated with tumorigenesis.
• Cytoskeletal Organization: TES helps maintain the structure and integrity of the cytoskeleton, facilitating various cellular processes dependent on cytoskeletal dynamics.

Clinical Issues

Abnormal TES expression or function is linked to several clinical conditions:

• Cancer: Reduced expression or deletion of TES is frequently observed in various cancers. Its tumor suppressor role makes it a potential biomarker for cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
• Metastasis: TES downregulation can lead to enhanced cell migration and invasion, contributing to cancer metastasis.
• Cardiovascular Diseases: Given its role in cytoskeletal dynamics, alterations in TES function may impact cardiovascular health, although this area requires further research.

Summary

Testin LIM Domain Protein (TES) is a critical cytoskeletal protein involved in cell adhesion, migration, and tumor suppression. It interacts with various proteins through its LIM and proline-rich domains, influencing cytoskeletal organization and cellular signaling pathways. TES plays a significant role in maintaining cellular integrity and preventing tumorigenesis. Dysregulation of TES is associated with several cancers and potentially other diseases, making it an important focus of research for understanding its mechanisms and therapeutic potential.