Small acidic protein

Ideogram human chromosome 11

Small acidic protein

A small acidic protein is a type of protein characterized by its relatively small size and acidic nature. These proteins play important roles in various biological processes, including cell signaling, gene regulation, and structural support.

Structure

Small acidic proteins are typically composed of a relatively low number of amino acid residues, resulting in a compact structure. They often contain a high proportion of acidic amino acids such as aspartic acid and glutamic acid, which contribute to their overall negative charge.

Function

Small acidic proteins serve diverse functions in cells. Some act as transcription factors, regulating the expression of specific genes. Others function as signaling molecules, transmitting information within and between cells. Additionally, small acidic proteins can contribute to the structural integrity of cellular components.

Examples

One well-known example of a small acidic protein is p53, a key regulator of cell growth and division. Another example is histone H2A, which is involved in packaging DNA into chromatin.

Role in Disease

Dysregulation of small acidic proteins has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Understanding the functions and regulation of these proteins is therefore crucial for developing targeted therapies.

See also

• Protein
• Amino acid
• Transcription factor
• Chromatin