PEX14n

PEX14n refers to the N-terminal domain of the peroxisomal membrane protein PEX14. In certain research contexts, PEX14n is studied as a discrete domain to understand how the N-terminal portion of PEX14 contributes to the assembly and function of the peroxisomal protein import machinery. It is not typically described as an independent gene product in standard annotations, but as a structural and functional segment of PEX14 used in biochemical and biophysical analyses.

Functionally, PEX14n is implicated in the docking stage of matrix protein import. PEX14, together with other peroxins such as PEX13 and PEX5, forms a docking complex at the cytosolic face of the peroxisomal membrane that recognizes receptor-bound cargo carrying peroxisomal targeting signals. The N-terminal region of PEX14 is thought to participate in protein–protein interactions that help recruit or stabilize the import receptors (for example PEX5) at the membrane, thereby contributing to the efficiency and regulation of cargo translocation into the organelle.

Localization and structure are consistent with a cytosolic-facing domain. PEX14n is described in studies as residing on the cytosolic side of the peroxisomal membrane, where it can engage with import receptors and other docking factors. Structural analyses focus on the sequence features and conformational properties of this region, which influence binding affinity and complex formation with partner proteins.

Evolutionary and clinical notes indicate that the broader PEX14 protein is conserved across eukaryotes and essential for peroxisome biogenesis. While mutations in PEX14 can lead to peroxisomal biogenesis disorders, PEX14n-specific effects are typically explored within the context of overall PEX14 function and import machinery dynamics. See also PEX14, peroxisome, peroxins.