HSPB8

HSP60

HSP60, also known as Heat Shock Protein 60, is a member of the chaperonin family of proteins. These proteins play a crucial role in the folding and assembly of newly synthesized proteins, as well as the refolding of misfolded or aggregated proteins. HSP60 is highly conserved across species and is essential for cellular homeostasis and survival under stress conditions.

Structure and Function

HSP60 is a mitochondrial chaperonin, primarily located in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells. It forms a complex with another protein, HSP10, to assist in the proper folding of proteins imported into the mitochondria. The HSP60 complex is a barrel-shaped structure that provides an isolated environment for protein folding, preventing aggregation and misfolding.

The HSP60 protein is composed of multiple subunits that assemble into a double-ring structure. Each ring consists of seven subunits, creating a central cavity where substrate proteins can be encapsulated. The ATP-dependent conformational changes in HSP60 facilitate the folding process.

Role in Disease

HSP60 has been implicated in various diseases, particularly those related to protein misfolding and aggregation. For example, mutations in the HSP60 gene (HSPD1) have been associated with hereditary spastic paraplegia and other neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, altered expression levels of HSP60 have been observed in cancer, where it may contribute to tumor progression and resistance to apoptosis.

HSP60 is also involved in the immune response. It can act as a danger signal when released into the extracellular space, triggering an immune response. This has implications in autoimmune diseases, where HSP60 may be recognized as an autoantigen.

Research and Therapeutic Potential

Given its central role in protein homeostasis, HSP60 is a target of interest for therapeutic interventions. Modulating HSP60 activity could potentially ameliorate diseases caused by protein misfolding, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Furthermore, targeting HSP60 in cancer therapy could enhance the efficacy of treatments by sensitizing cancer cells to apoptosis.

Also see

• Chaperonin
• Heat Shock Protein
• Mitochondria
• Protein Folding
• Neurodegenerative Disease