DEP domain-containing protein 7 (DEPDC7)

DEP domain-containing protein 7 (DEPDC7) is a protein of 511 amino acids notable for containing both a Dishevelled, EGL-10, and Pleckstrin (DEP) domain and a GTPase activating protein (GAP) domain[1][3]. DEPDC7 is highly and specifically expressed in normal liver tissue and classified among liver-selective cell communication genes[1]. Expression of DEPDC7 is significantly decreased in hepatocellular carcinoma and liver cancer cell lines, suggesting a tumor suppressor function[1]. Experimental overexpression in hepatoma cells inhibits cell proliferation, cell cycle progression (specifically G1/S transition), and cell migration and invasion, while knockdown of DEPDC7 has the opposite effect[1]. The DEP domain is a globular structure typically involved in protein-protein interactions and membrane targeting in diverse signal transduction pathways, including G-protein, Wnt, mTOR, NF-κB, and PI3K-AKT signaling[2][3]. Although currently lacking known drug interactions or validated clinical biomarkers, DEPDC7 is considered a potential therapeutic target for liver cancer due to its inhibitory role on tumor growth and metastasis[1]. The precise molecular mechanisms by which DEPDC7 functions and regulates liver-specific biology and oncogenesis remain to be fully elucidated[1][3].

Other names

DEPDC7Protein TR2/D15TR2dJ85M6.4novel 58.3 kDa protein