Ankyrin repeat domain-containing protein 45 (ANKRD45)

Ankyrin repeat domain-containing protein 45 is a novel member of the ankyrin repeat family, characterized by tandem ankyrin repeats which facilitate protein-protein interactions. ANKRD45 is implicated in cell division and proliferation and is dynamically localized during mitosis, especially to the midbody ring during cytokinesis. Knockdown of ANKRD45 by siRNA or CRISPR/Cas9 methods induces apoptosis in cultured cells, indicating a role in cell survival and tissue growth. In animal models (e.g., zebrafish), loss of ANKRD45 results in cellular phenotypes when combined with oncogenic stress (KRAS G12V mutation leading to cancerous proliferation and defective liver development). Although named cancer/testis antigen 117 and found in certain cancer gene expression studies, ANKRD45 is not established as a receptor, enzyme, or direct therapeutic target in human medicine. It is mainly detected as a cytoplasmic protein, largely within dividing and proliferating cells, but is not associated with any direct pharmacological interventions or safety liabilities at present.

Other names

ANKRD45cancer/testis antigen 117CT117RP3-436N22.4FLJ45235

None described. No drugs target this molecule, so mechanisms of action do not apply.