Exportin for tRNA (XPOT)

Exportin for tRNA (XPOT) is a nuclear export receptor belonging to the karyopherin-β/transportin family, specifically responsible for recognizing and exporting mature tRNAs from the nucleus to the cytoplasm in eukaryotic cells. XPOT functions by forming a ternary complex with tRNA and Ran-GTP, docking at the nuclear pore, and upon transport into the cytoplasm, the complex dissociates, freeing tRNA for translation. Structural studies reveal XPOT wraps around mature tRNA, providing specificity for correctly processed molecules and coupling export to tRNA quality control. XPOT is implicated in coordinating cellular protein synthesis with nuclear-cytoplasmic transport, and its dysregulation or overexpression has been linked to various cancers, where it supports abnormal cell proliferation and invasion. No clinical drugs directly target XPOT, but the molecule is being explored as a potential biomarker and future therapeutic target in oncology.

Other names

Exportin-TXPO3Exportin(tRNA)tRNA exportinexportin for tRNAexportin-texportin (tRNA)exportin, tRNA (nuclear export receptor for tRNAs)exportin, tRNA

No direct-acting drugs; experimental strategies include RNA interference or genetic knockdown in research. Potential mechanisms would involve inhibition of tRNA nuclear export leading to impaired protein synthesis, cytokinesis failure, and reduced tumor proliferation