S100 Calcium Binding Protein A10, also known as S100A10 or p11, is a member of the S100 family of proteins. These proteins are characterized by the presence of two EF-hand calcium-binding motifs, which are helix-loop-helix structural domains capable of binding calcium ions. S100A10 is encoded by the S100A10 gene in humans and plays a crucial role in various cellular processes.
S100A10 is a small protein with a molecular weight of approximately 11 kDa. It is predominantly found in the cytoplasm and nucleus of cells. The protein is known for its ability to form a heterotetrameric complex with Annexin A2, which is essential for its function. This complex is involved in various cellular processes, including membrane trafficking, exocytosis, and endocytosis .
One of the key functions of S100A10 is its role in the regulation of neurotransmitter transport. It has been implicated in the transport of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in mood regulation. Due to this interaction, S100A10 is considered a potential target for drug therapy in mood disorders .
S100A10 is involved in several biological processes, including:
S100A10 has been studied for its potential role in various diseases. It is overexpressed in numerous cancer cell lines, where it acts as a plasminogen receptor on the extracellular cell surface. This overexpression is associated with the formation of a heterotetrameric complex with Annexin A2, which is crucial for its function in cancer cell invasion and metastasis .
Additionally, S100A10 acts as a cellular chaperone for hepatitis B virus polymerase, facilitating its relocation to the nucleus and implying a role in viral replication .