Calcium-binding mitochondrial carrier protein SCaMC-1

Calcium-binding mitochondrial carrier protein SCaMC-1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC25A24 gene. It is a member of the mitochondrial carrier family, which is a group of small molecules that shuttle metabolites, nucleotides, and cofactors through the mitochondrial inner membrane.

Function

The SCaMC-1 protein is a calcium-dependent mitochondrial ATP-Mg/Pi carrier. It mediates the transport of ATP-Mg from the cytoplasm into the mitochondrial matrix, and phosphate from the mitochondrial matrix to the cytoplasm. The net result is the transport of ATP-Mg into the mitochondria in exchange for phosphate, with a simultaneous transport of calcium.

Structure

The SCaMC-1 protein is a multi-pass membrane protein located in the mitochondrial inner membrane. It contains three homologous repeat domains, each consisting of about 100 amino acids, which include two transmembrane segments. The conserved sequence motifs, which include the mitochondrial carrier signature, are involved in the formation of the solute transfer pathway.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the SLC25A24 gene have been associated with autosomal recessive osteogenesis imperfecta, a genetic disorder that causes brittle bones. In addition, the SCaMC-1 protein has been implicated in the regulation of mitochondrial metabolism and cell death, which may have implications for diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

See also

• Mitochondrial carrier
• SLC25A24
• Osteogenesis imperfecta
• Mitochondrial metabolism
• Cell death