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Target intelligence / Profile preview
Cytochrome c oxidase copper chaperone (COX17)
- Target
- COX17
- Molecular classification
- Copper chaperone, Mitochondrial respiratory chain complex assembly factor, Other
01
Overview
Cytochrome c oxidase copper chaperone (COX17) is a small, essential mitochondrial protein that supplies copper ions for the assembly of cytochrome c oxidase (complex IV), the terminal enzyme of the mitochondrial electron transport chain[2][3][4]. COX17 binds copper ions in the cytosol and transfers them, via redox-regulated steps and interactions with other chaperones (such as SCO1, SCO2, COX11), to the mitochondrial intermembrane space and ultimately to the catalytic copper centers of cytochrome c oxidase[1][2][3]. Loss or knockdown of COX17 impairs cytochrome c oxidase function, impacting mitochondrial respiration and cellular energy production[3]. COX17 is not a structural subunit of the enzyme complex but is critical for its biogenesis. Increased activity and expression of COX17 have been implicated in certain cancers, making it a potential, though not yet clinically validated, therapeutic target in oncology[3].
- Other names
- COX17Cytochrome c oxidase copper chaperone COX17Cytochrome c oxidase copper chaperone, COX17Cytochrome c oxidase assembly homolog, COX17Cytochrome c oxidase 17 copper chaperoneCytochrome c oxidase assembly homolog 17Human homolog of yeast mitochondrial copper recruitment, COX17
02
Biological functions
Copper ion transport within mitochondriaAssembly of cytochrome c oxidase (complex IV)Regulation of mitochondrial respiratory chainOther
03
Disease associations
Mitochondrial disordersCancer (notably non–small cell lung cancer)Other
04
Safety considerations
Potential for mitochondrial dysfunction if inhibited (as it is essential for respiratory chain complex assembly)Possible effects on cellular energetics and viability when targeted
05
Biomarkers
COX17 expression levels (investigational, especially in cancers such as non–small cell lung cancer)
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