Coilin

Coilin is a protein that in humans is encoded by the COIL gene. Coilin is a key component of the Cajal body, a type of nuclear body involved in the biogenesis of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) and other RNA-related processes.

Function

Coilin plays a crucial role in the formation and maintenance of Cajal bodies, which are involved in the maturation of snRNPs. These snRNPs are essential for pre-mRNA splicing, a critical step in the processing of messenger RNA (mRNA) precursors into mature mRNA molecules that can be translated into proteins.

Structure

The coilin protein contains several domains that facilitate its interaction with other proteins and RNA molecules. These interactions are necessary for the assembly of Cajal bodies and the recruitment of snRNPs and other components involved in RNA processing.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the COIL gene or alterations in coilin function can lead to defects in RNA processing and have been associated with various neurological disorders. Research is ongoing to better understand the role of coilin in these diseases and its potential as a therapeutic target.

Research

Studies have shown that coilin interacts with several other proteins involved in RNA metabolism, including SMN protein and fibrillarin. These interactions are important for the proper functioning of Cajal bodies and the efficient processing of snRNPs.

See Also

• Cajal body
• Small nuclear ribonucleoprotein
• RNA splicing

External Links

• COIL gene - NCBI Gene
• Coilin - UniProt