KCTD11 is a protein-coding gene that produces a protein involved in several important cellular processes. The protein contains a BTB/POZ domain, which is known for its role in protein-protein interactions . This domain is crucial for the tetramerisation of potassium channels, which are essential for maintaining the electrical excitability of cells .
The KCTD11 protein is involved in the regulation of neuronal differentiation and has been shown to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), growth arrest, and the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor CDKN1B . It acts as a tumor suppressor and inhibits the growth and tumorigenicity of medulloblastoma, a type of brain cancer .
KCTD11 is upregulated by various neurogenic signals, such as retinoic acid, epidermal growth factor (EGF), and nerve growth factor (NGF) . It functions as an antagonist of the Hedgehog signaling pathway, which is involved in cell proliferation and differentiation . By affecting the nuclear transfer of the transcription factor GLI1, KCTD11 helps maintain cerebellar granule cells in an undifferentiated state .
Additionally, KCTD11 is a probable substrate-specific adapter for a BCR (BTB-CUL3-RBX1) E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase complex towards HDAC1 . This interaction is significant for the regulation of protein degradation and cellular homeostasis.
Recombinant KCTD11 is produced using Escherichia coli (E. coli) expression systems. The recombinant protein is typically a non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 252 amino acids and has a molecular mass of approximately 28 kDa . It is often fused to a His-tag at the N-terminus to facilitate purification using chromatographic techniques .
Recombinant KCTD11 is used in various research applications, including studies on protein-protein interactions, signal transduction pathways, and the development of potential therapeutic agents targeting the Hedgehog signaling pathway .