SEC16A

SEC16A, also known as SEC16 homolog A, is a protein encoded by the SEC16A gene in humans. This gene is located on chromosome 5. The SEC16A protein is a component of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane and plays a crucial role in the early stages of COPII-coated vesicle formation. COPII vesicles are essential for the transport of proteins and lipids from the ER to the Golgi apparatus, a process vital for cellular organization and function.

SEC16A is a key scaffold protein that helps assemble the COPII coat machinery at ER exit sites. These sites are specific regions on the ER membrane where vesicle budding occurs. SEC16A interacts with other COPII components, such as Sec24 and Sec31, to recruit cargo proteins and facilitate the formation of the vesicle bud. Its precise localization and function are critical for efficient protein trafficking within the cell. Disruptions in SEC16A function can lead to impaired protein transport, potentially causing cellular stress and contributing to various diseases. Research into SEC16A continues to shed light on the intricate mechanisms of protein secretion and its implications for cellular health.