LATS1

LATS1, or Large Tumor Suppressor Kinase 1, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the LATS1 gene. It is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a crucial role in the regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle control. LATS1 is a key component of the Hippo signaling pathway, which is involved in controlling organ size and tumor suppression.

The LATS1 gene is located on chromosome 12 and spans approximately 20 kilobases. It encodes a protein of 1,130 amino acids with a molecular weight of about 130 kDa. The LATS1 protein contains a central kinase domain and several conserved motifs, including a hydrophobic motif and a C-terminal domain that is important for its localization and function.

LATS1 is widely expressed in various tissues and cell types, with particularly high levels in the brain, heart, and skeletal muscle. It is involved in a variety of cellular processes, including the regulation of the G1/S and G2/M phase transitions of the cell cycle, as well as the induction of apoptosis in response to DNA damage.

Mutations in the LATS1 gene have been implicated in several types of cancer, including breast, lung, and ovarian cancer. These mutations can lead to the loss of LATS1 function, resulting in uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumor growth. In addition, LATS1 has been shown to be downregulated in some cancers, further highlighting its role as a tumor suppressor.

Overall, LATS1 is a critical regulator of cell growth and division, and its dysfunction has been linked to the development of cancer and other diseases. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of LATS1 in these processes and to develop targeted therapies for diseases associated with LATS1 dysfunction.