Inhibitory synaptic factor 1 (INSYN1)

INSYN1 encodes inhibitory synaptic factor 1, a 292-amino-acid scaffold protein predominantly localized at the postsynaptic density of inhibitory synapses in the brain[1][2][13]. Its primary function is to organize and maintain the molecular machinery needed for effective GABAergic synaptic transmission, acting via interaction with the dystrophin/dystroglycan complex (DGC).[2][4][7][13] Proper INSYN1 localization is critical for synaptic architecture and neural inhibition; loss or mutation leads to defective inhibitory synapse structure, increased neuronal excitability, and cognitive impairments in animal models[2]. Structural analysis reveals an N-terminal coiled-coil region important for protein–protein interactions and synaptic targeting[2][3]. While not a direct therapeutic target or biomarker, INSYN1 plays a key supporting role in inhibitory synaptic physiology and may become relevant in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric diseases related to inhibitory circuit disruption[2][7][13].

Other names

C15orf59InSyn1MGC131524LOC388135Inhibitory synaptic protein 1UPF0583 protein C15orf59

None known; no direct drugs targeting INSYN1 have been reported