eIF4H

eIF4H is a eukaryotic translation initiation factor that plays a crucial role in the process of protein synthesis. It belongs to the eIF4F complex, a multi-subunit factor essential for the recognition of the messenger RNA (mRNA) 5' cap structure and the subsequent recruitment of the ribosome to the mRNA. Specifically, eIF4H is a non-catalytic subunit that interacts with other components of the eIF4F complex, including eIF4E and eIF4G. Its primary function is thought to be the stabilization of the eIF4F complex and the facilitation of ribosome scanning along the mRNA to find the start codon. The interaction of eIF4H with eIF4G is particularly important for bridging the 5' cap-binding protein (eIF4E) and the 40S ribosomal subunit. Aberrant expression or function of eIF4H has been implicated in various cellular processes and diseases, including cancer, where it can contribute to the dysregulation of protein synthesis. Research into eIF4H continues to uncover its intricate roles in translational control and its potential as a therapeutic target.