Exportin-7 (XPO7)

Exportin-7 (XPO7) is a nuclear transport receptor of the importin-β family that mediates the RanGTP-dependent export of a wide variety of proteins from the nucleus to the cytoplasm[1][2][3][4]. Unlike more substrate-specific exportins, XPO7 exhibits broad substrate specificity, exporting proteins such as RhoGAP1, 14-3-3 sigma, tubulin, retromer complex components, histone-interacting proteins, and more[1][3]. XPO7 is also capable of nuclear import for select cargoes, a rare feature among exportins[2][3]. Its mechanism involves forming a trimeric complex with cargo and RanGTP, docking at the nuclear pore complex, and translocating cargo upon hydrolysis of Ran-GTP[4]. Dysregulation of XPO7 has been specifically associated with impaired erythroid differentiation and poor prognosis in certain cancers due to defective cellular senescence[2][3][4]. No small-molecule drugs are currently known to target XPO7 directly, but specific nanobodies have been developed for cellular studies[3]. The protein's broad physiological roles make it an important molecule for cell compartmentalization, signal regulation, and potentially therapeutic targeting, though safety remains a significant concern given its central role in nuclear transport[3][4].

Other names

Exportin-7XPO7KIAA0745RANBP16Exp7Ran-binding protein 16

Drugs or inhibitors would interfere with nuclear export/import of cargo proteins, resulting in altered localization and downstream signaling or cell fate decisions