Vesicle-Associated Membrane Protein 7 (VAMP7), also known as SYBL1 or TI-VAMP, is a transmembrane protein that plays a crucial role in the intracellular transport system. It is a member of the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) family, which is essential for the fusion of vesicles with their target membranes .
The VAMP7 gene is located on the X chromosome (Xq28) and encodes a protein that is approximately 220 amino acids long . The protein structure includes a longin domain, a SNARE motif, and a transmembrane domain. The longin domain is involved in the regulation of the protein’s function, while the SNARE motif is critical for the fusion of vesicles with target membranes .
VAMP7 is primarily involved in the targeting and fusion of transport vesicles to their target membranes. It localizes to late endosomes and lysosomes and is essential for the heterotypic fusion of late endosomes with lysosomes and homotypic lysosomal fusion . Additionally, VAMP7 is required for calcium-regulated lysosomal exocytosis, which is crucial for various cellular processes, including the release of enzymes and other molecules from lysosomes .
VAMP7 plays a significant role in several biological processes, including:
Mutations or dysregulation of VAMP7 can lead to various cellular dysfunctions. Given its role in vesicle transport and exocytosis, abnormalities in VAMP7 function can impact processes such as neurotransmitter release, immune responses, and cellular waste management. Research is ongoing to understand the full spectrum of VAMP7’s involvement in human health and disease .