The Leucine Zipper EF-Hand Containing Transmembrane Protein 1 (LETM1) is a mitochondrial protein that plays a crucial role in maintaining mitochondrial function and calcium homeostasis. While specific information on "Recombinant Chicken LETM1" is limited, understanding the general functions and characteristics of LETM1 can provide valuable insights into its role in cellular processes.
LETM1 is localized to the inner mitochondrial membrane and is known for its Ca²⁺/H⁺ exchanger activity, which helps regulate mitochondrial calcium levels . The protein contains EF-hand domains, which are calcium-binding motifs. These domains are crucial for sensing calcium and facilitating the protein's regulatory functions within the mitochondria .
EF-Hand Domains: LETM1 contains both canonical and non-canonical EF-hand domains. The canonical domain has a typical Ca²⁺-binding loop with conserved residues, while the non-canonical domain lacks these features .
Leucine Zipper: This motif is involved in protein-protein interactions, potentially contributing to LETM1's role in mitochondrial complex assembly .
Transmembrane Domains: LETM1 spans the mitochondrial inner membrane, facilitating its role in ion exchange .
LETM1 is essential for maintaining mitochondrial health by regulating calcium and proton homeostasis, which affects ATP production and mitochondrial morphology . It interacts with other mitochondrial proteins to ensure proper assembly and function of respiratory complexes .
Apoptosis and Metabolism: LETM1 influences cellular metabolism and apoptosis, with its dysregulation linked to various diseases .
Cancer: LETM1 is overexpressed in several cancers, suggesting a role in tumorigenesis .
Recent studies have highlighted the importance of LETM1 in mitochondrial dynamics and cellular signaling. The protein's EF-hand domains are critical for its function as a calcium sensor and in modulating its interactions with other proteins .
Structural Dynamics: The apo form of LETM1's EF-hand domain adopts a closed conformation, which changes upon calcium binding, facilitating its sensing capabilities .
pH Sensitivity: LETM1 exhibits pH sensitivity, with certain residues having pKa values close to physiological pH, allowing it to respond to pH fluctuations .
Understanding LETM1's structure and function can lead to insights into mitochondrial diseases and cancer. Further research is needed to explore its therapeutic potential, especially in conditions related to mitochondrial dysfunction.
Therapeutic Targets: LETM1 could serve as a target for therapies aimed at regulating mitochondrial calcium homeostasis and metabolism .
Cancer Research: Investigating LETM1's role in cancer progression may reveal novel strategies for cancer treatment .
While specific data tables for "Recombinant Chicken LETM1" are not available, general information on LETM1 can be summarized as follows:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Inner mitochondrial membrane |
| Function | Ca²⁺/H⁺ exchanger, mitochondrial calcium regulation |
| Domains | EF-hand (canonical and non-canonical), leucine zipper, transmembrane domains |
| Role in Disease | Linked to Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome, cancer, and metabolic disorders |