TAGLN Human

Transgelin, also known as SM22-alpha, is a 22 kDa actin-binding protein that plays a crucial role in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. It is predominantly expressed in smooth muscle cells and is involved in various cellular processes, including cell motility, shape, and contraction. Transgelin has been identified as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Transgelin is composed of 201 amino acids and contains three calponin homology (CH) domains, which are responsible for its actin-binding properties. The protein is highly conserved across species, indicating its essential role in cellular functions. Transgelin interacts with actin filaments, stabilizing them and regulating their dynamics. This interaction is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the cytoskeleton and facilitating cellular processes such as migration and adhesion.

Transgelin has been implicated in the progression of various cancers. It is often overexpressed in cancer cells, where it contributes to tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. Studies have shown that transgelin promotes the formation of filopodia and podosomes, which are actin-rich structures involved in cell migration and invasion . Additionally, transgelin has been found to enhance the resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, making it a potential target for cancer treatment .

In the cardiovascular system, transgelin is primarily expressed in smooth muscle cells of blood vessels. It plays a critical role in maintaining vascular tone and regulating blood pressure. Dysregulation of transgelin expression has been associated with various cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension and atherosclerosis. In these conditions, altered transgelin expression can lead to changes in smooth muscle cell contractility and contribute to the development of vascular pathologies.

Given its involvement in cancer and cardiovascular diseases, transgelin has emerged as a potential therapeutic target. In cancer, strategies to inhibit transgelin expression or function could help to reduce tumor growth and metastasis. In cardiovascular diseases, modulating transgelin activity could help to restore normal vascular function and prevent disease progression. Recent studies have explored the use of cell-permeable recombinant transgelin-2 as a therapeutic agent, demonstrating its potential to enhance immune responses and suppress tumor growth .