Caveolin 1

Caveolin 1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CAV1 gene. It is a major component of the inner membrane of caveolae, small invaginations of the plasma membrane, and is involved in essential cellular processes such as signal transduction, lipid metabolism, and endocytosis.

Structure

Caveolin 1 is a 22-kDa protein that has a hairpin-like structure, with both the N-terminus and the C-terminus facing the cytoplasm. The protein has a scaffolding domain that interacts with a variety of signaling molecules. It also contains a caveolin scaffolding domain (CSD), which is necessary for the formation of caveolae and the sequestration of certain signaling molecules.

Function

Caveolin 1 plays a crucial role in the formation of caveolae and the organization of caveolar membrane domains. It acts as a scaffolding protein, organizing and concentrating certain signaling molecules within caveolae. The protein is involved in the regulation of several signaling pathways, including the MAPK pathway, the PI3K/Akt pathway, and the Wnt signaling pathway. It also plays a role in lipid metabolism, facilitating the transport of cholesterol and fatty acids, and in endocytosis, mediating the internalization of certain proteins and lipids.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the CAV1 gene have been associated with several diseases, including lipodystrophy, pulmonary hypertension, and certain types of cancer. In cancer, overexpression of Caveolin 1 has been linked to tumor progression and metastasis, while its downregulation has been associated with tumor suppression.

See also

• Caveolin
• Caveolae
• Signal transduction
• Lipid metabolism
• Endocytosis