Adapter protein

Adapter Protein

An adapter protein is a type of protein that plays a crucial role in cell signaling and immune response. These proteins act as intermediaries, facilitating communication between various receptors and effectors within the cell. Adapter proteins do not possess any intrinsic enzymatic activity but function by mediating protein-protein interactions.

Function

Adapter proteins are involved in a variety of cellular processes. They are essential for the transmission of signals from the cell surface to the interior of the cell, a process known as signal transduction. They can also mediate the assembly of large protein complexes, and play a role in the regulation of apoptosis (programmed cell death).

Types of Adapter Proteins

There are several types of adapter proteins, each with distinct functions and structures. These include:

• SH2 domain-containing proteins: These proteins bind to specific phosphotyrosine residues on other proteins, facilitating signal transduction.

• SH3 domain-containing proteins: These proteins bind to proline-rich sequences on other proteins, aiding in the assembly of protein complexes.

• PDZ domain-containing proteins: These proteins bind to specific sequences at the C-termini of other proteins, playing a role in the formation of protein complexes at the plasma membrane.

Role in Disease

Abnormalities in adapter proteins can lead to a variety of diseases. For example, mutations in the adapter protein Nck have been linked to cancer, while mutations in the adapter protein MyD88 have been associated with immune disorders.

See Also

• Protein-protein interaction
• Signal transduction
• Cell signaling
• Immune response