DNAJC15 Human

DnaJ (Hsp40) Homolog, Subfamily C, Member 15, also known as DNAJC15, is a protein-coding gene that belongs to the DnaJ heat shock protein family (Hsp40). This family of proteins plays a crucial role in various cellular processes, including protein folding, assembly of oligomeric protein complexes, and regulation of protein import into mitochondria .

The DNAJC15 gene is located on chromosome 13q14.11 and encodes a protein that consists of 150 amino acids. The protein has a transmembrane domain near the N-terminus and a C-terminal DNAJ domain . The DNAJ domain is highly conserved and is characteristic of the DnaJ family members .

DNAJC15 is primarily involved in mitochondrial protein import and regulation of mitochondrial complex assembly and electron transport . It acts as a negative regulator of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, preventing mitochondrial hyperpolarization and restricting ATP generation . DNAJC15 is also a component of the TIM23 translocase complex, which is essential for the import of preproteins into the mitochondrial matrix .

DNAJC15 is expressed in various human tissues, with the highest expression observed in the testis, heart, liver, and kidney . The protein is localized to the inner mitochondrial membrane, with its N-terminus extending into the intermembrane space and its J domain facing the mitochondrial matrix .

Mutations or alterations in the DNAJC15 gene have been associated with several diseases, including Cowden Syndrome 7 and Cowden Syndrome . Loss of DNAJC15 expression has been linked to increased sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents and elevated drug-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis .

Recombinant DNAJC15 protein is used in various research applications to study its role in mitochondrial function, protein import, and its involvement in disease mechanisms. Understanding the function and regulation of DNAJC15 can provide insights into mitochondrial biology and potential therapeutic targets for related diseases.