RPL21 is a 19–25 kDa ribosomal protein encoded by the RPL21 gene (NCBI Gene ID: 6144). It plays a role in ribosome assembly and translation fidelity. Dysregulation of RPL21 is linked to cancer progression, including colorectal cancer (CRC) and pancreatic cancer (PC), where it promotes metastasis, cell proliferation, and apoptosis resistance.
This protein binds to 23S ribosomal RNA in the presence of protein L20. It plays a crucial role in karyogamy during female gametophyte development. This process involves the fusion of two polar nuclei to form the diploid central cell nucleus, and subsequently, the double fertilization of the egg cell and the central cell.
Gene References Into Functions
The nfd3, nfd4, nfd5, and nfd6 mutants exhibit T-DNA insertions in genes predicted to encode proteins that localize to mitochondria. This suggests a potential role for mitochondria in nuclear fusion. PMID: 16698901