DC-STAMP domain containing 1 (DCST1)

DC-STAMP domain containing 1 (DCST1) is a conserved multi-pass transmembrane protein belonging to the DC-STAMP-like domain-containing protein family. It is highly expressed in the testis and is required for sperm–egg fusion during fertilization in mammals—its disruption causes male infertility due to failed gamete membrane fusion. DCST1 is also annotated as an E3 ubiquitin ligase, mediating Lys-48-linked ubiquitination and degradation of STAT2, which downregulates type-I interferon signaling. DCST1 forms a group with its paralog DCST2, and homologs are conserved across metazoans. There are no drugs targeting DCST1 currently and no established clinical biomarkers or notable safety concerns directly associated with modulating this protein in humans.

Other names

DCSTAMP domain containing 1DCST1

Not targeted by known therapeutic drugs; its endogenous function involves ubiquitination of STAT2, leading to negative regulation of type-I interferon signaling. It is also required for membrane fusion between sperm and egg.