NAA15

NAA15 (N-alpha-acetyltransferase 15, NatA auxiliary subunit) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the NAA15 gene. This protein is a part of the N-terminal acetyltransferase A (NatA) complex, which is involved in the acetylation of the amino-terminal residues of proteins during their synthesis. N-terminal acetylation is a widespread modification affecting proteins involved in various cellular processes, including cell cycle, apoptosis, and protein folding. The NAA15 gene plays a critical role in cellular physiology and development.

Function

The NAA15 protein, as a component of the NatA acetyltransferase complex, is involved in the co-translational acetylation of proteins. This modification occurs as proteins are being synthesized by ribosomes, specifically targeting the N-terminal end of the emerging polypeptide chain. The NatA complex, consisting of the catalytic subunit NAA10 and the auxiliary subunit NAA15, acetylates serine, alanine, threonine, and glycine residues at the N-terminus of newly synthesized proteins. This modification can affect the protein's stability, subcellular localization, and interaction with other proteins.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the NAA15 gene have been associated with a variety of developmental disorders and diseases. These include intellectual disability, developmental delay, autism spectrum disorder, and congenital heart defects. The wide range of phenotypes associated with NAA15 mutations suggests that N-terminal acetylation plays a crucial role in human development and physiology. Furthermore, aberrant expression of NAA15 has been observed in certain cancers, indicating a potential role in tumorigenesis.

Molecular Biology

The NAA15 gene is located on chromosome 4q31.1 and consists of multiple exons. The encoded protein, NAA15, interacts with NAA10 to form the NatA acetyltransferase complex. This complex is anchored to the ribosome, allowing it to efficiently acetylate nascent proteins. The structure of NAA15 is crucial for its interaction with NAA10 and the ribosome, facilitating the acetylation process.

Research Directions

Current research on NAA15 is focused on understanding its role in human diseases and development. Studies are aimed at elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which NAA15 mutations lead to developmental disorders and cancer. Additionally, there is interest in exploring NAA15 as a potential therapeutic target, particularly in cancers where its expression is dysregulated.

See Also

• N-terminal acetylation
• NAA10
• Protein modification
• Developmental disorder
• Autism spectrum disorder