Clustered mitochondria protein homolog (CLUH)

Clustered mitochondria protein homolog (CLUH) is an evolutionarily conserved cytosolic RNA-binding protein that specifically recognizes and binds to mRNAs encoding mitochondrial proteins, assembling them into distinct ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules[1][2][3]. This compartmentalization facilitates efficient post-transcriptional regulation, including stabilization, localization, and translation of mRNAs near mitochondria, which supports mitochondrial biogenesis, distribution, function, and metabolic flexibility in response to cellular nutrient status[1][2][3][4]. Loss of CLUH function disrupts the proper translation of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial proteins, impairs mitochondrial quality control, induces mitochondrial clustering, reduces oxidative phosphorylation, and compromises the cell’s ability to adapt mitochondrial metabolism during nutrient stress or starvation[1][4][5]. CLUH exerts its function in a variety of tissues and is essential for processes such as adipogenesis, energy metabolism, and, possibly, neurological health; however, it is **not currently recognized as a therapeutic target** (such as a druggable receptor, enzyme, or transporter), and there are **no reported drugs that interact directly with CLUH**[2][3][5]. **Notes on correctness:** - The phrase "CLUH binding protein of NUMT mRNA" is not a standard, recognized designation; the canonical, widely accepted name is "Clustered mitochondria protein homolog" (abbreviation: CLUH)[1][2][3][4]. - There is **no evidence CLUH is a direct drug target, receptor, enzyme, or classical therapeutic target**.[2][3] - CLUH mainly acts as an RNA-binding, post-transcriptional regulator rather than a typical “molecular target” in pharmacology or drug discovery.[2][3][5].

Other names

Clustered mitochondria protein homologCLUHKIAA0664CLU1Cluh binding protein of nuclear DNA of mitochondrial origin mRNAClustered mitochondria (cluA/CLU1) homolog