NTF2-like Export Factor 1 Human Recombinant
NTF2-like Export Factor 2 Human Recombinant
The NTF2-like export factor belongs to the nuclear transport factor 2 (NTF2) superfamily, which includes a diverse group of proteins sharing a common fold . These proteins are involved in various cellular processes, including the transport of macromolecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm . The NTF2-like domain is characterized by its cone-like shape with a cavity inside, which can accommodate different sequences and serve various functions .
Key Biological Properties: NTF2-like export factors are crucial for the trafficking of macromolecules, ions, and small molecules between the cytoplasm and nucleus . They play a significant role in mRNA nuclear export and are involved in the transport of proteins and RNAs through the nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) .
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: The expression of NTF2-like export factors can vary across different tissues. For instance, NXT2, a member of this family, exhibits testis-enriched expression, suggesting a role in spermatogenesis . These factors are ubiquitously expressed in various tissues, indicating their essential role in cellular functions .
Primary Biological Functions: NTF2-like export factors are primarily involved in the export of mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm . They form heterodimers with other proteins, such as NXF1, to facilitate the translocation of mRNA through the NPC .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: While the primary function of NTF2-like export factors is related to mRNA export, they may also play a role in immune responses by regulating the expression of immune-related genes .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: NTF2-like export factors interact with various molecules and cells through their binding partners. For example, NXT2 interacts with NXF2 and NXF3 through its NTF2-like domain . These interactions are crucial for the formation of the export complex and the subsequent transport of mRNA .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: The NTF2-like domain facilitates the binding of export factors to their cargo, such as mRNA, and other proteins involved in the export process . This binding is essential for the proper functioning of the export machinery and the regulation of downstream signaling cascades .
Transcriptional Regulation: The expression of NTF2-like export factors is regulated at the transcriptional level by various transcription factors and signaling pathways .
Post-translational Modifications: Post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, can also regulate the activity and stability of NTF2-like export factors . These modifications can influence the binding affinity of the export factors to their cargo and other interacting proteins .
Biomedical Research: NTF2-like export factors are valuable tools in biomedical research for studying nucleocytoplasmic transport and gene expression regulation .
Diagnostic Tools: The expression levels of NTF2-like export factors can serve as biomarkers for certain diseases, such as male infertility, where NXT2 deficiency is linked to impaired spermatogenesis .
Therapeutic Strategies: Targeting NTF2-like export factors and their regulatory mechanisms can provide therapeutic strategies for diseases related to nucleocytoplasmic transport defects .
Development to Aging and Disease: NTF2-like export factors play a critical role throughout the life cycle, from development to aging . They are essential for the proper development of germ cells and the maintenance of cellular functions during aging . Dysregulation of these factors can lead to various diseases, including infertility and age-related disorders .