Ankyrin repeat and SOCS box protein 17 (ASB17)

Ankyrin repeat and SOCS box protein 17 (ASB17) is a member of the ASB family, characterized by N-terminal ankyrin repeats and a C-terminal SOCS box, and acts primarily as a component of E3 ubiquitin ligase complexes[7]. ASB17 is expressed predominantly in testis tissue and is involved in protein ubiquitination, serving as a substrate recognition factor that mediates degradation of specific substrates such as the actin-binding protein Espin (ESPN) and pro-survival BCL2 family proteins BCLW and MCL1[3][5]. It promotes caspase-dependent apoptosis, particularly in spermatogenic cells, and is implicated in the proper release of mature sperm cells (spermiation), by regulating cell-cell junction remodeling and cytoplasm removal during sperm maturation[5][9]. ASB17 also facilitates inflammatory signaling by stabilizing TRAF6, leading to enhanced NF-κB activation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production[1][2]. Despite its defined molecular actions, ASB17-deficient mice have normal fertility, though with minor defects in sperm release, indicating a non-essential but contributory role in reproduction[5]. As of now, ASB17 is not considered a direct therapeutic target, and no known drugs selectively modulate its function[3][9].

Other names

Ankyrin repeat and SOCS box containing 17ASB-17Asb-17ankyrin repeat and SOCS box protein 17Q8WXJ9HGNC:19769ENSG00000154007NCBI Gene:127247