GOLGA7 Human

The GOLGA7 gene is located on chromosome 8 and encodes a protein that is approximately 16 kDa in size . The protein is characterized by its involvement in protein transport from the Golgi to the cell surface. It is also a part of the palmitoyltransferase complex, specifically the ZDHHC9-GOLGA7 complex, which is responsible for the palmitoylation of HRAS and NRAS .

Golgin A7 plays a crucial role in the stabilization and transport of proteins within the Golgi apparatus. It is involved in the process of peptidyl-L-cysteine S-palmitoylation, a post-translational modification that attaches palmitic acid to cysteine residues on proteins. This modification is essential for the proper localization and function of many proteins .

The ZDHHC9-GOLGA7 complex specifically targets HRAS and NRAS, which are small GTPases involved in cell signaling pathways that regulate cell growth and differentiation. The palmitoylation of these proteins is necessary for their proper localization to the plasma membrane, where they exert their biological functions .

Recombinant human Golgin A7 is produced using molecular cloning techniques. The gene encoding GOLGA7 is inserted into an expression vector, which is then introduced into a host organism, typically E. coli. The host organism expresses the protein, which can then be purified using various chromatography techniques. The recombinant protein often includes a His-tag to facilitate purification .

Recombinant Golgin A7 is used in various research applications, including studies on protein transport, Golgi apparatus function, and the role of palmitoylation in cellular processes. It is also used to investigate the mechanisms underlying diseases associated with defects in protein transport and palmitoylation .