MGSSHHHHHH SSGLVPRGSH MGSYPFLGIR FAEYSSSLQK PVASPGKASS QRKTEGDLQG DHQKEVALDI TSSEEKPDVS FDKAIRDEAI YHFRLLKDEI VDHWRGPEGH PLHEVLLEQA KVVWQFRGKE DLDKWTVTSD KTIGGRSEVF LKMGKNNQSA LLYGTLSSEA PQDGESTRSG YCAMISRIPR GAFERKMSYD WSQFNTLYLR VRGDGRPWMV NIKEDTDFFQ RTNQMYSYFM FTRGGPYWQE VKIPFSKFFF SNRGRIRDVQ HELPLDKISS IGFTLADKVD GPFFLEIDFI GVFTDPAHTE EFAYENSPEL NPRLFK.
NADH Dehydrogenase 1 Alpha Subcomplex, Assembly Factor 1 (NDUFAF1) is a crucial protein involved in the assembly of Complex I of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. This complex, also known as NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase, is the largest of the five complexes in the electron transport chain and plays a pivotal role in cellular respiration and energy production.
NDUFAF1 acts as an assembly factor for Complex I, facilitating the correct assembly of this complex within the mitochondrial inner membrane . Complex I catalyzes the transfer of electrons from NADH to ubiquinone (coenzyme Q), which is the first step in the mitochondrial respiratory chain . This process results in the translocation of protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane, contributing to the proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis.
The proper assembly and function of Complex I are essential for efficient cellular respiration and energy production. Mutations in the NDUFAF1 gene can lead to mitochondrial Complex I deficiency, a condition associated with a range of clinical manifestations, including neurodegenerative diseases and metabolic disorders .
Understanding the role of NDUFAF1 in the assembly of Complex I has significant implications for research and clinical practice. Studies on NDUFAF1 can provide insights into the mechanisms underlying mitochondrial diseases and potentially lead to the development of therapeutic strategies for conditions associated with Complex I deficiency .