TOMM20 Human
Description
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
Translocase of the Outer Mitochondrial Membrane 20 (TOMM20) is a crucial protein involved in the mitochondrial import machinery. It is part of the translocase of the outer membrane (TOM) complex, which facilitates the transport of proteins across the outer mitochondrial membrane. TOMM20 acts as a receptor that recognizes and binds to the presequence of mitochondrial-targeted proteins, aiding their translocation into the mitochondria .
TOMM20 is an integral membrane protein located in the outer mitochondrial membrane. It is composed of 145 amino acids and contains a transmembrane region that anchors it to the membrane . The primary function of TOMM20 is to recognize and bind the N-terminal matrix-targeting sequences (MTSs) of precursor proteins, which form an amphipathic alpha helix. This binding is essential for the subsequent translocation of these proteins into the mitochondrial matrix .
The human recombinant TOMM20 can be prepared using various molecular biology techniques. The gene encoding TOMM20 is cloned into an expression vector, which is then introduced into a suitable host cell, such as Escherichia coli or yeast. The host cells are cultured under optimal conditions to express the recombinant protein. After expression, the protein is purified using techniques such as affinity chromatography, which exploits the specific binding properties of TOMM20 to isolate it from other cellular components .
TOMM20 interacts with several other components of the TOM complex, including TOM40, TOM22, and TOM70. These interactions are crucial for the proper functioning of the mitochondrial import machinery. The binding of precursor proteins to TOMM20 is mediated by the recognition of specific amino acid sequences in the MTSs. This interaction is typically analyzed using biochemical assays, such as co-immunoprecipitation and cross-linking studies, which help elucidate the binding dynamics and specificity of TOMM20 .
The TOM complex, including TOMM20, plays a vital role in maintaining mitochondrial function by ensuring the proper import of proteins required for mitochondrial biogenesis and energy production. Defects in the TOM complex can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and are associated with various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders and metabolic syndromes .
