Cysteine-rich PDZ-binding protein (CRIPT)

Cysteine-rich PDZ-binding protein (CRIPT) is a small, 12 kDa protein encoded by the CRIPT gene in humans and other vertebrates[3][6]. CRIPT binds to the third PDZ domain (PDZ3) of postsynaptic density proteins such as PSD-95 (DLG4), regulating key synaptic structures by linking these scaffold proteins to the neuronal cytoskeleton, particularly microtubules[1][3][6]. CRIPT is implicated in neuronal development, where it modulates dendritic arborization and dendritic spine morphogenesis in a manner dependent on its PDZ-domain-binding motif[1]. Mutations in the CRIPT gene are associated with severe neurodevelopmental phenotypes, including primordial dwarfism, microcephaly, and distinctive facial features[1][3]. CRIPT is also described as a component of the minor spliceosome, potentially participating in the splicing of U12-type introns in pre-mRNAs[6]. While CRIPT is essential for normal brain development and synaptic connectivity, no current data support its use as a therapeutic target, nor are any drugs known to directly interact with it[3][5][6].

Other names

CXXC repeat containing interactor of PDZ3 domainCRIPTHSPC139Cysteine-rich interactor of PDZ3SSMDFRTS3cysteine-rich PDZ-binding proteincysteine-rich interactor of PDZ threepostsynaptic protein CRIPT