IFI30 Human

Interferon Gamma-Inducible Protein 30, also known as Gamma-Interferon-Inducible Lysosomal Thiol Reductase, is a crucial enzyme predominantly found in lysosomes and the cytoplasm. This protein is encoded by the Interferon Gamma-Inducible Protein 30 gene, which is one of the interferon-stimulated genes. These genes can be upregulated by interferons, which are a group of signaling proteins made and released by host cells in response to the presence of pathogens.

Interferon Gamma-Inducible Protein 30 is the only known enzyme that catalyzes the reduction of disulfide bonds in the endocytic pathway. This function is essential for the processing and presentation of antigens by major histocompatibility complex class I and class II molecules. By reducing disulfide bonds in endocytosed proteins, Interferon Gamma-Inducible Protein 30 facilitates the degradation of these proteins into peptides that can be presented on the cell surface to T cells, thus playing a vital role in the immune response .

The expression of Interferon Gamma-Inducible Protein 30 is constitutive in many antigen-presenting cells, such as dendritic cells and macrophages. However, its expression can be induced by interferon gamma in other cell types. The promoter region of the Interferon Gamma-Inducible Protein 30 gene contains specific response elements for interferon gamma, making it an interferon gamma-specific gene .

Emerging research has highlighted the involvement of Interferon Gamma-Inducible Protein 30 in various diseases, particularly in cancer. The enzyme has been implicated in tumorigenesis, tumor development, and the tumor immune response. By enhancing the processing and presentation of antigens, Interferon Gamma-Inducible Protein 30 can influence the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack tumor cells. This makes it a potential target for cancer therapy, particularly in the context of immunotherapy .