MGSSHHHHHH SSGLVPRGSH MGGSALNQGV LEGDDAPGQS LYERLSQRML DISGDRGVLK DVIREGAGDL VAPDASVLVK YSGYLEHMDR PFDSNYFRKT PRLMKLGEDI TLWGMELGLL SMRRGELARF LFKPNYAYGT LGCPPLIPPN TTVLFEIELL DFLDCAESDK FCALSAEQQD QFPLQKVLKV AATEREFGNY LFRQNRFYDA KVRYKRALLL LRRRSAPPEE QHLVEAAKLP VLLNLSFTYL KLDRPTIALC YGEQALIIDQ KNAKALFRCG QACLLLTEYQ KARDFLVRAQ KEQPFNHDIN NELKKLASCY RDYVDKEKEM WHRMFAPCGD GSTAGES.
FK506 Binding Protein 6 (FKBP6) is a member of the FK506-binding proteins (FKBPs) family, which are intracellular proteins known for their role in immunosuppression and protein folding. These proteins are also referred to as immunophilins due to their ability to bind immunosuppressive drugs like FK506 (tacrolimus) and rapamycin .
FKBP6, like other members of the FKBP family, possesses peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase (PPIase) activity. This activity is crucial for protein folding, as it catalyzes the isomerization of peptide bonds at proline residues . FKBP6 is structurally characterized by the presence of FK domains, which are responsible for its binding to FK506 and rapamycin .
FKBP6, along with other FKBPs, forms complexes with FK506 or rapamycin. These complexes inhibit the phosphatase activity of calcineurin, thereby blocking the signal transduction pathway in T-lymphocytes. This inhibition is critical for the immunosuppressive effects of FK506, making FKBP6 an important target in the treatment of autoimmune disorders and in preventing organ transplant rejection .
FKBP6 is involved in various cellular processes beyond immunosuppression. It plays a role in prenatal development and the pathogenesis of several human diseases . FKBP6, along with other FKBPs, is also implicated in the regulation of transcription and protein transportation through its interaction with other cellular proteins .
The study of FKBP6 and other FKBPs has significant implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies. By understanding the mechanisms of FK506 and rapamycin binding to FKBPs, researchers can design specific drugs targeting these pathways. This could lead to novel treatments for diseases related to immune function, protein folding, and cellular signaling .