Recombinant Proteins
Product List
TOMM20 Human
Translocase Of Outer Mitochondrial Membrane 20 Human Recombinant
TOMM34 Human
Translocase Of Outer Mitochondrial Membrane 34 Human Recombinant
Introduction
The Translocase of the Outer Mitochondrial Membrane (TOM) is a complex of proteins located in the outer membrane of mitochondria. It serves as the primary gateway for the import of mitochondrial precursor proteins from the cytosol into the mitochondria . The TOM complex is composed of several subunits, including the core component Tom40, which forms a β-barrel channel, and six single-pass membrane proteins: Tom5, Tom6, Tom7, Tom20, Tom22, and Tom70 .
Key Biological Properties: The TOM complex is essential for mitochondrial biogenesis and function. It facilitates the import of proteins necessary for mitochondrial activities .
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: TOM components are ubiquitously expressed in various tissues, reflecting the universal requirement for mitochondrial function across different cell types . For instance, in Arabidopsis, AtTOM40 is widely expressed in different tissues, especially during embryogenesis .
Primary Biological Functions: The TOM complex is responsible for the translocation of mitochondrial precursor proteins across the outer membrane. This process is crucial for maintaining mitochondrial function and biogenesis .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: While the primary function of the TOM complex is related to protein import, its role in immune responses and pathogen recognition is less well-defined. However, mitochondrial function, in general, is known to influence immune responses and cellular homeostasis .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: The TOM complex interacts with various precursor proteins and other mitochondrial translocases, such as the Translocase of the Inner Membrane (TIM) complex, to facilitate protein import .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: TOM components, such as Tom20 and Tom22, act as receptors for precursor proteins. These proteins are then translocated through the Tom40 channel into the intermembrane space, where they are further processed by the TIM complex .
Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Expression and Activity: The expression and activity of TOM components are regulated at multiple levels, including transcriptional regulation and post-translational modifications .
Transcriptional Regulation: Genes encoding TOM components are regulated by various transcription factors that respond to cellular energy demands and stress signals .
Post-Translational Modifications: TOM proteins undergo post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, which can influence their stability and function .
Biomedical Research: The TOM complex is a target of interest in studies related to mitochondrial diseases and dysfunctions. Understanding its role can provide insights into the mechanisms underlying these conditions .
Diagnostic Tools: Alterations in the expression of TOM components can serve as biomarkers for certain diseases, such as polycystic ovary syndrome and various cancers .
Therapeutic Strategies: Targeting the TOM complex or its regulatory pathways may offer therapeutic potential for treating mitochondrial disorders and related diseases .
Role Throughout the Life Cycle: The TOM complex plays a critical role throughout the life cycle, from development to aging and disease. During development, it is essential for mitochondrial biogenesis and function, which are crucial for cellular energy production and metabolism . In aging and disease, alterations in TOM function can contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction and associated pathologies .
