USE1 is involved in the retrograde transport of vesicles from the Golgi apparatus back to the ER . This process is essential for maintaining the proper function and organization of the ER and Golgi network. The protein acts as a SNARE that facilitates the targeting and fusion of Golgi-derived vesicles with the ER . This function is critical for the recycling of vesicular components and the maintenance of cellular homeostasis.
The USE1 protein is characterized by its SNARE motif, which is a conserved sequence that allows it to interact with other SNARE proteins to form a complex. This complex is necessary for the fusion of vesicles with target membranes . The protein also contains a tail-anchor that helps it embed into the membrane of the ER .
Mutations or dysregulation of the USE1 gene have been associated with various diseases, including pericardium leiomyoma and chest wall lymphoma . Additionally, the protein’s role in vesicle transport and lysosomal function suggests that it may be involved in other cellular processes and pathologies .
Recombinant USE1 protein is used in various research applications to study its function and role in cellular processes. It is typically produced in a laboratory setting using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the USE1 gene into an expression system to produce the protein in large quantities . This recombinant protein can then be used in biochemical assays, structural studies, and other experimental setups to gain insights into its function and mechanism.