eEF1A1 is a member of the elongation factor family and is known for its ability to bind GTP. The GTP-bound form of eEF1A1 interacts with aminoacyl-tRNA and carries it to the A-site of the ribosome, where peptide bond formation occurs . This process is essential for the accurate and efficient synthesis of proteins within the cell.
The protein is composed of several domains that allow it to interact with various molecules, including tRNA, GTP, and other components of the translation machinery. These interactions are critical for its function in translation elongation .
The EEF1A1 gene encodes an isoform of the alpha subunit of the elongation factor-1 complex. This isoform, eEF1A1, is expressed in a variety of tissues, including the brain, placenta, lung, liver, kidney, and pancreas . Another isoform, eEF1A2, is expressed in the brain, heart, and skeletal muscle . The differential expression of these isoforms suggests that they may have specialized functions in different tissues.
eEF1A1 is not only involved in translation elongation but also plays a role in other cellular processes. It has been implicated in the regulation of the cell cycle, signal transduction, and the cellular response to stress . Additionally, eEF1A1 has been identified as an autoantigen in a significant percentage of patients with Felty’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder .
Recombinant eEF1A1 refers to the protein that has been produced through recombinant DNA technology. This involves inserting the EEF1A1 gene into a suitable expression system, such as bacteria or yeast, to produce the protein in large quantities. Recombinant eEF1A1 is used in various research applications to study its function, interactions, and role in disease processes.
The study of eEF1A1 has important implications for understanding the mechanisms of protein synthesis and its regulation. Dysregulation of eEF1A1 has been associated with various diseases, including cancer, where its overexpression is linked to tumor progression . Research on eEF1A1 can provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for treating such conditions.