Pex18ps

Pex18ps is a peroxisomal protein that plays a role in peroxisome biogenesis and function. Peroxisomes are small organelles found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells that are involved in a variety of metabolic processes, including the breakdown of fatty acids and the detoxification of harmful substances.

The gene encoding Pex18ps is designated PEX18. In yeast, Pex18p is a membrane protein that is part of the peroxisomal membrane import machinery. It is thought to interact with other peroxisomal proteins, such as Pex14p, to facilitate the import of matrix proteins into the peroxisome. The precise function of Pex18ps in mammalian cells is still under investigation, but it is believed to be involved in similar processes related to peroxisome assembly and protein targeting.

Mutations in genes involved in peroxisome biogenesis can lead to a group of genetic disorders known as peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs). While PEX18 mutations have been linked to specific forms of PBDs in some organisms, the direct clinical relevance of PEX18 mutations in human disease is an area of ongoing research. Understanding the role of Pex18ps is crucial for deciphering the complex mechanisms of peroxisome formation and for potentially identifying targets for therapeutic intervention in peroxisomal disorders.

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