MDA5

MDA5 (Melanoma Differentiation-Associated protein 5) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IFIH1 gene. It is a part of the RIG-I-like receptor (RLR) family, which plays a crucial role in the innate immune system by detecting viral RNA and activating a signaling cascade that leads to the production of interferons.

Function

MDA5 is a cytoplasmic protein that recognizes double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), a key molecular pattern associated with viral infections. Upon recognition of dsRNA, MDA5 undergoes a conformational change and interacts with the mitochondrial antiviral-signaling protein (MAVS), leading to the activation of transcription factors IRF3 and NF-κB. These transcription factors then induce the expression of type I interferons and other antiviral proteins.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the IFIH1 gene have been associated with several autoimmune diseases, including Aicardi-Goutières syndrome, Singleton-Merten syndrome, and type 1 diabetes. In addition, MDA5 has been implicated in the antiviral response to several RNA viruses, including picornaviruses, noroviruses, and coronaviruses.

See also

• RIG-I-like receptor
• Interferon
• Innate immune system

External links

• IFIH1 gene at NCBI
• MDA5 protein at UniProt