Dedicator of cytokinesis protein 5 (DOCK5)

Dedicator of cytokinesis protein 5 (DOCK5) is a large intracellular protein (~180 kDa) encoded by the DOCK5 gene and belongs to the DOCK-A subfamily of guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) that activate Rho family GTPases, particularly Rac1. DOCK5 is involved in numerous biological processes, including cell migration, adhesion, actin cytoskeleton remodeling, myoblast fusion, bone resorption, mast cell degranulation, and hepatic insulin sensitivity. While its function as an activator of small G-proteins is established, DOCK5 also participates in protein-protein interactions that are independent of its GEF activity. Genetic studies implicate DOCK5 in immune, bone, metabolic, and some cancer-related processes, making it a potential therapeutic target in these disease contexts, though direct drugs have not yet reached clinical application.

Other names

DOCK5Dedicator of cytokinesis protein 5FLJ21034dedicator of cytokinesis protein 5

Inhibition of guanine nucleotide exchange factor activity for Rac1, thereby modulating downstream signaling and cytoskeletal rearrangement. Blockade of DOCK5 interaction with critical signaling adaptors (e.g., Nck2, Raptor), impacting mast cell degranulation, immune responses, and insulin sensitivity. Targeting the DOCK5-mTORC1-Akt axis to modulate energy balance.