Copine-3 (CPNE3)

Copine-3 (CPNE3) is a calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding protein belonging to the copine family and characterized by two N-terminal C2 domains and a C-terminal von Willebrand factor type A (VWA) domain[1][2][3]. This protein transiently associates with membranes in response to increased intracellular calcium, mediating protein–protein interactions and regulating molecular events at the cell membrane–cytoplasm interface[1][2]. CPNE3 is ubiquitously expressed and implicated in multiple signaling pathways, including those mediating cell motility, invasion, synaptic plasticity, and immune cell migration[2][3]. It plays a prominent role in cancer (where it can promote cell migration and invasion via interaction with integrins and receptor tyrosine kinases) and is recognized as a candidate biomarker for tumor aggressiveness[3]. Additionally, it is involved in metabolic (glucose uptake, insulin secretion), cardiovascular (cell survival, response to ischemia), inflammatory, and neuropsychiatric functions[3]. There are no approved drugs that directly target Copine-3 as of 2025.

Other names

Copine IIICPN3KIAA0636PRO1071copine-3copine III

Not classical drug target; drugs would modulate calcium-dependent membrane binding, protein interaction networks, or downstream signaling pathways, but no specific drug mechanism established