14-3-3 protein (general family; e.g., "14-3-3 protein beta" for specific isoform) (14-3-3)

14-3-3 proteins are a highly conserved family of regulatory molecules found in all eukaryotic cells. They function primarily as molecular scaffolds, binding to hundreds of phosphoserine/threonine-containing proteins across diverse signaling pathways. Seven distinct human isoforms exist, often forming homo- or heterodimers. They play crucial roles in signal transduction, cell cycle progression, cell death, and trafficking by altering the conformation, function, or localization of their binding partners. Dysregulation or altered expression of 14-3-3 proteins is implicated in diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, and elevated cerebrospinal fluid levels are a diagnostic marker for rapid neurodegeneration. While no approved drugs specifically target these proteins, their protein–protein interaction surfaces are being explored for pharmacological intervention, though safety and specificity remain challenges.

Other names

14-3-3 proteinsTyrosine 3-monooxygenase/tryptophan 5-monooxygenase activation proteinYWH family (e.g., YWHAB, YWHAE for specific isoforms)

Modulate protein–protein interactions by stabilizing or inhibiting binding between 14-3-3 and partners Affect localization and function of signaling proteins