ADP-ribosylation factor-like protein 16 (ARL16)

ADP-ribosylation factor-like protein 16 (ARL16) is a member of the ARF family of small GTPases within the Ras superfamily[1][3]. It is an evolutionarily conserved protein found in virtually all ciliated eukaryotes, where it localizes mainly to cilia, basal bodies, and Golgi apparatus[1][2]. Its primary recognized function is the regulation of trafficking of specific proteins (including IFT140 and INPP5E) from the Golgi to the cilium, influencing cilia structure, composition, and signaling[1][2]. Loss of ARL16 impairs cilia formation, alters ciliary protein profiles, and affects key ciliary and signaling pathways such as Hedgehog signaling[1][2]. ARL16 also acts as a negative regulator of the RIG-I pathway, thereby modulating innate immune signaling through direct inhibition of RIG-I in a GTP-dependent manner[3]. No disease is directly caused by ARL16 mutations, and it is not currently a therapeutic target or biomarker, nor are there approved drugs acting through it. Its functional importance in ciliary protein sorting and immune regulation suggests a role in disorders of cilia or immunity, but this remains to be clarified by future research[1][2][3].

Other names

ADP ribosylation factor like GTPase 16ARL16ADP-ribosylation factor-like protein 16