MYO15A

MYO15A, also known as myosin XVA, is a gene that encodes a protein belonging to the unconventional myosin superfamily. Myosin proteins are molecular motors that utilize the energy from ATP hydrolysis to generate force and movement. The MYO15A protein is primarily expressed in the inner ear sensory hair cells and plays a crucial role in their development and function. Specifically, it is essential for the proper formation and maintenance of stereocilia, which are hair-like projections on the surface of hair cells that are responsible for sensing sound vibrations and head movements.

Mutations in the MYO15A gene are associated with several forms of hereditary hearing loss, including autosomal recessive non-syndromic hearing loss and Usher syndrome type 1F. These mutations can lead to defects in stereocilia structure, resulting in impaired mechanotransduction and subsequent hearing impairment or deafness. Research into MYO15A's function continues to shed light on the complex mechanisms underlying hearing and balance, offering potential avenues for therapeutic interventions for hearing disorders. The protein's interaction with other genes and proteins involved in hair cell development is an active area of investigation.