ECSIT

ECSIT is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ECSIT gene. It is involved in various cellular processes, including immune response, cellular respiration, and signal transduction.

Function

ECSIT, or Evolutionarily Conserved Signaling Intermediate in Toll pathway, is a protein that acts as an adapter in the Toll-like receptor and TNF-alpha signaling pathways. It is involved in the regulation of inflammatory responses and mitochondrial biogenesis.

ECSIT is also a critical component of the Mitochondrial complex I, which is the first step in the electron transport chain that generates ATP in the mitochondria.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the ECSIT gene have been associated with various diseases. For example, a mutation in ECSIT has been linked to TLR3-mediated herpes simplex encephalitis, a rare complication of herpes simplex virus infection.

In addition, ECSIT has been implicated in the development of cancer. It has been found to be overexpressed in certain types of cancer, suggesting that it may play a role in tumor growth and progression.

See also

• Toll-like receptor
• Mitochondrial complex I
• Electron transport chain
• ATP
• Herpes simplex virus
• Cancer