IFITM5

Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 5, commonly abbreviated as IFITM5, is a protein encoded by the IFITM5 gene in humans. It belongs to the interferon-induced transmembrane protein family, a group of proteins known to play roles in antiviral immunity and cell signaling. The IFITM5 protein is primarily found in the plasma membrane of cells, with a notable enrichment in osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation.

Research has indicated that IFITM5 is implicated in bone mineralization and the development of skeletal disorders. Mutations in the IFITM5 gene have been identified as a cause of Osteogenesis Imperfecta type V, a genetic disorder characterized by brittle bones, bone deformities, and hearing loss. In this condition, altered IFITM5 function is thought to disrupt the normal process of bone matrix organization and mineralization.

Beyond its role in bone, IFITM5 has also been investigated for its involvement in cellular responses to viral infections, consistent with other members of the IFITM protein family. Its precise mechanisms of action in both bone health and antiviral defense are ongoing areas of scientific study. Understanding IFITM5's functions is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies for skeletal diseases and potentially for enhancing antiviral immunity.