Amnion Associated Transmembrane Protein (AMN) is a type I transmembrane protein encoded by the AMN gene. This protein plays a crucial role in various biological processes, including the modulation of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) receptor function. It acts as an accessory or coreceptor, facilitating or hindering BMP binding .
The AMN gene is located on chromosome 14 and is responsible for coding the AMN protein. The protein has a molecular weight of approximately 47.7 kDa and is expressed in various tissues, including the extraembryonic visceral endoderm layer during gastrulation . The AMN protein has sequence similarity to short gastrulation (Sog) and procollagen IIA proteins in Drosophila .
AMN is a membrane-bound component of the endocytic receptor formed by AMN and CUBN (Cubilin). This complex is essential for the efficient absorption of vitamin B12 and normal CUBN-mediated protein transport in the kidney . The AMN-CUBN complex is also required for normal CUBN glycosylation and trafficking to the cell surface .
Human recombinant AMN protein is used extensively in research to study its role in BMP receptor function and its involvement in various diseases. The protein is typically expressed in HEK293 cells and is available in various formats for research purposes . It is important to note that the recombinant AMN protein is for research use only and is not approved for clinical diagnosis or therapeutic use .