Ndj1like

Ndj1like is a protein family identified by sequence similarity to the yeast Ndj1 (nondisjunction suppressed 1). In annotations, Ndj1like proteins are predicted to function at the interface of meiotic chromosome ends and the nuclear envelope, contributing to telomere dynamics and homolog pairing. The proteins are typically small to medium in length and enriched in coiled-coil motifs, features consistent with scaffolding roles rather than enzymatic activity. They often contain basic residues that facilitate nuclear localization and potential interactions with telomere-associated factors.

Localization and function: In meiosis, Ndj1like proteins are proposed to accumulate at telomeres and the inner nuclear envelope, participating in bouquet formation by linking telomeres to SUN-domain proteins in the nuclear envelope. In some species, Ndj1like proteins physically interact with Ndj1 homologs or with Csm4/Mps3-like complexes.

Evolution and distribution: The Ndj1like family shows variable conservation. It is widely present in fungi and has homologs in plants and some animals, but many lineages show absences or rapid divergence, suggesting lineage-specific adaptation or redundancy with other meiotic regulators.

Regulation and expression: Expression is typically meiosis-restricted, controlled by meiotic transcriptional programs; post-translational regulation may modulate localization and turnover during meiotic progression.

Clinical and biological significance: As a meiotic regulator, Ndj1like may influence recombination fidelity and chromosome segregation, with potential implications for fertility and genome stability in species where the proteins are functional. Further experimental work is needed to establish precise molecular mechanisms.