Prefoldin Subunit 1 Human Recombinant
Prefoldin Subunit 2 Human Recombinant
Prefoldin Subunit 4 Recombinant Human
Prefoldin Subunit 5 Human Recombinant
Prefoldin Subunit 6 Human Recombinant
Von Hippel-Lindau Binding Protein 1 Human Recombinant
Prefoldin is a heterohexameric molecular chaperone found in both archaea and eukaryotes, including humans . It is composed of six subunits, typically two alpha and four beta subunits . Prefoldin functions as a co-chaperone, working in conjunction with chaperonins to assist in the proper folding of nascent proteins .
Key Biological Properties: Prefoldin is essential for the correct folding of cytoskeletal proteins such as actin and tubulin . It operates in an ATP-independent manner, making it suitable for functioning under stress conditions .
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: Prefoldin is ubiquitously expressed in various tissues, with significant roles in maintaining protein homeostasis . Its subunits are differentially expressed, and their levels can be influenced by cellular stress and other conditions .
Primary Biological Functions: Prefoldin primarily assists in the folding of newly synthesized polypeptides, preventing their aggregation and ensuring proper protein function . It plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular protein homeostasis .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: While prefoldin’s direct role in immune responses and pathogen recognition is not well-documented, its function in protein homeostasis indirectly supports immune cell function by ensuring the proper folding and function of immune-related proteins .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: Prefoldin binds to nascent, unfolded proteins and transports them to chaperonins for proper folding . It specifically interacts with the cytosolic chaperonin TCP-1 ring complex (TRiC)/chaperonin containing TCP-1 (CCT) to facilitate the folding of actin and tubulin .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: Prefoldin forms complexes with other proteins to protect them from degradation and assist in their proper folding . It does not directly participate in downstream signaling cascades but supports the stability and function of proteins involved in these pathways .
Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Expression and Activity: The expression of prefoldin subunits is regulated at the transcriptional level and can be influenced by cellular stress . Post-translational modifications, such as ubiquitination, also play a role in regulating the stability and activity of prefoldin subunits .
Transcriptional Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications: Prefoldin subunits can be protected from ubiquitin-mediated degradation by forming complexes with other subunits . This regulation ensures the proper balance and function of prefoldin within the cell .
In Biomedical Research: Prefoldin is studied for its role in protein folding and its implications in diseases caused by protein misfolding, such as neurodegenerative diseases .
Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Strategies: Abnormal expression of prefoldin subunits has been linked to various tumors, making it a potential biomarker for cancer diagnosis and prognosis . Its role in maintaining protein homeostasis also makes it a target for therapeutic strategies aimed at treating diseases related to protein misfolding .
Throughout Development to Aging and Disease: Prefoldin is crucial throughout the life cycle, from development to aging . It ensures the proper folding and function of proteins necessary for cellular growth, differentiation, and maintenance . Dysregulation of prefoldin function can lead to diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders and cancer .