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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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