The PDAP1 gene is located on chromosome 7 and encodes a protein that is approximately 28 kDa in size . The protein is characterized by its heat and acid stability, which makes it resilient under various physiological conditions. PDAP1 is a phosphoprotein, meaning it undergoes phosphorylation, a process that can alter its activity and function within the cell .
PDAP1 is known to enhance the growth of fibroblasts stimulated by Platelet-Derived Growth Factor A (PDGFA) . Fibroblasts are cells that play a crucial role in wound healing and tissue repair. PDAP1 achieves this by binding to PDGFA with low affinity, thereby promoting cell proliferation . Interestingly, PDAP1 also has an inhibitory effect on the mitogenic activity of Platelet-Derived Growth Factor B (PDGFB), which suggests a regulatory role in balancing the effects of different growth factors .
PDAP1 is predominantly localized in the cytosol of cells, with additional presence at the plasma membrane . Its expression is observed in various tissues, indicating its widespread role in cellular functions. The protein’s localization to the cytosol and plasma membrane suggests its involvement in intracellular signaling pathways and interactions with membrane-bound receptors .
The regulatory functions of PDAP1 in cell growth and proliferation make it a protein of interest in the study of cancer and other proliferative disorders. Abnormal expression or mutations in the PDAP1 gene could potentially lead to dysregulated cell growth, contributing to the development of tumors . Additionally, PDAP1’s role in fibroblast proliferation highlights its potential importance in wound healing and tissue regeneration research .
Recombinant PDAP1 is used in various research applications to study its function and interactions with other proteins. By using human recombinant PDAP1, researchers can investigate its role in cellular processes under controlled conditions, providing insights into its potential therapeutic applications .