Epsin-1 (EPN1)

Epsin-1 is a highly conserved membrane-associated adaptor protein critical for clathrin-mediated endocytosis[1][2][3][6][7]. It binds to phosphoinositide lipids in the plasma membrane (primarily PtdIns(4,5)P2), clathrin, AP-2, and ubiquitinated membrane proteins via its distinct functional domains: an N-terminal ENTH domain mediating lipid binding and membrane curvature, multiple ubiquitin-interacting motifs (UIMs) capturing ubiquitinated cargo, and clathrin/adaptor binding motifs facilitating vesicular coat assembly[1][2][6][7]. Epsin-1 is required for force generation during invagination and scission of clathrin-coated pits, links actin to the endocytic machinery, and coordinates dynamics essential for vesicle formation[3][4][6]. Loss of EPN1 impairs endocytosis and can alter tumor growth and progression, underscoring functional relevance in membrane trafficking and implications for disease biology[5].

Other names

Epsin 1EPN1EH domain-binding mitotic phosphoproteinEPS-15-interacting protein 1