Immunity-related GTPase Q (IRGQ)

Immunity-related GTPase Q (IRGQ) is a member of the IRG family of interferon-inducible, dynamin-like large GTPases critical for cell-autonomous defense against intracellular pathogens. IRG proteins are rapidly induced by interferon-gamma (IFNγ) and localize to pathogen-containing vacuoles within cells, promoting the rupture of these compartments and exposing pathogens to cytosolic immune effectors. About 20 effector IRGs—including IRGQ—are regulated by three membrane-bound IRG family members and recognize specific membrane signals, leading to targeted elimination of intracellular bacteria and protozoa such as *Toxoplasma gondii* and *Chlamydia trachomatis*. IRGQ itself functions as part of a coordinated defense network, with its activity linked to GTP binding and hydrolysis, membrane targeting, and the disruption of pathogen-containing vacuoles. While IRGs are not currently targeted by drugs, their central role in antimicrobial immunity makes them an area of interest for research into resistance and immune system modulation[2].

Other names

IIGP2IrgqImmunity-related GTPase QIRGQ GTPase