DHX29

DHX29 is a gene that encodes a member of the DEAH-box helicase family, which are proteins involved in RNA processing and translation initiation. The DHX29 protein plays a crucial role in the initiation of protein synthesis by facilitating the unwinding of mRNA secondary structures, allowing the ribosome to scan the mRNA for the start codon.

Function

The DHX29 protein is an ATP-dependent RNA helicase that is essential for efficient translation initiation on mRNAs with structured 5' untranslated regions (UTRs). It is involved in the ribosomal scanning process, where it helps the 43S pre-initiation complex to move along the mRNA and locate the AUG start codon.

Clinical Significance

Mutations or dysregulation of DHX29 have been implicated in various diseases, including certain types of cancer. The protein's role in translation initiation makes it a potential target for therapeutic intervention in diseases where protein synthesis is dysregulated.

Research

Studies have shown that DHX29 interacts with other translation initiation factors, such as eIF3 and eIF4F complex, to promote the assembly of the translation initiation complex. Ongoing research is focused on understanding the detailed mechanisms by which DHX29 contributes to translation initiation and its potential as a drug target.

See Also

• RNA helicase
• Translation (biology)
• Gene expression

External Links

• "DHX29 Gene - NCBI"
• "DHX29 Protein - UniProt"