Human 14-3-3 Protein Epsilon (YWHAE) Protein

Background

YWHAE, another member of the 14-3-3 family, functions as an adaptor protein that regulates protein-protein interactions, cellular localization, and stability of signaling molecules. By binding to phosphorylated targets, YWHAE modulates pathways such as MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, and PI3K/Akt, controlling processes like cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cytoskeletal dynamics. It is highly expressed in neuronal tissues, where it plays critical roles in brain development, axon guidance, and synaptic function. YWHAE also regulates the DNA damage response and tumor suppression pathways by interacting with proteins like p53 and Chk1. Dysregulation of YWHAE is linked to developmental disorders, including Miller-Dieker syndrome and neurodevelopmental abnormalities, as well as cancers where it promotes tumor progression and metastasis. Knockout models exhibit defects in brain development, impaired cell migration, and increased susceptibility to stress, emphasizing its role in neurodevelopment, cell signaling, and maintaining cellular integrity.