Tubulin Polymerization Promoting Protein (TPPP), also known as p25alpha, is a member of a newly identified eukaryotic protein superfamily. This protein family is characterized by the presence of the p25alpha domain (Pfam05517, IPR008907) and is named after the first identified member, TPPP/p25 . TPPP/p25 was originally discovered as a brain-specific protein with an unknown function and is mainly expressed in differentiated oligodendrocytes .
TPPP/p25 plays a crucial role in the stabilization and polymerization of microtubules, which are essential components of the cytoskeleton. Microtubules provide structural support to cells and are involved in various cellular processes, including cell division, intracellular transport, and maintenance of cell shape . TPPP/p25 facilitates microtubule elongation and regulates tubulin acetylation by inhibiting cytosolic deacetylase enzymes . This regulation is vital for maintaining microtubule stability and function.
TPPP/p25 is involved in several physiological processes, particularly in the development and function of the brain and the musculoskeletal system . It has been implicated in the regulation of microtubule dynamics, which is essential for proper neuronal function and development . Additionally, TPPP/p25 has been associated with various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. The pathological association of TPPP/p25 with alpha-synuclein, a protein involved in the etiology of synucleinopathies, highlights its potential role in disease mechanisms .
Human recombinant TPPP is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the gene encoding TPPP into a suitable expression system, such as bacteria or yeast. This allows for the large-scale production of TPPP for research and therapeutic purposes. Recombinant TPPP retains the structural and functional properties of the native protein, making it a valuable tool for studying its role in cellular processes and disease mechanisms.
Research on TPPP/p25 has provided valuable insights into its role in microtubule dynamics and its potential as a therapeutic target. Inhibiting tubulin polymerization has been shown to be an effective strategy for inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells . Additionally, understanding the mechanisms by which TPPP/p25 regulates microtubule stability and function could lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases and other conditions associated with microtubule dysfunction .