RPL11

RPL11 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the RPL11 gene. This gene is a member of the ribosomal protein gene family and encodes a protein that is a component of the 60S ribosomal subunit. The ribosomes are organelles responsible for protein synthesis, and the 60S subunit is one of the two subunits that make up these ribosomes, the other being the 40S ribosomal subunit. The proteins and RNA molecules that form the ribosomal subunits are critical for the accurate and efficient production of proteins within the cell.

RPL11 plays a significant role in the p53 signaling pathway, which is crucial for cell cycle regulation and the cell's response to DNA damage. Mutations or alterations in the expression of the RPL11 gene have been associated with various forms of cancer, highlighting its importance in maintaining cellular integrity and preventing tumorigenesis.

In addition to its role in protein synthesis and cell cycle regulation, RPL11 is involved in the nucleolar stress pathway. This pathway is activated in response to disruptions in ribosome biogenesis, leading to the stabilization and activation of p53. Through this mechanism, RPL11 acts as a tumor suppressor, linking defects in ribosome biogenesis to the activation of p53-mediated apoptosis or cell cycle arrest.

Research has also indicated that mutations in the RPL11 gene can lead to Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA), a rare congenital disorder characterized by anemia, bone marrow failure, and an increased risk of cancer. This association underscores the critical role of RPL11 in hematopoiesis and its potential impact on human health.