Metastasis suppressor protein 1 (MTSS1)

Metastasis suppressor protein 1 (MTSS1), also known as MTSS I-BAR domain containing 1, is a **multifunctional intracellular scaffold protein** primarily recognized for its role as a **metastasis suppressor in multiple cancer types**[1][2][4]. MTSS1 regulates essential cellular processes including **actin cytoskeleton dynamics**, **cell membrane shaping**, **cell migration**, **vesicle formation and trafficking**, and **protein turnover**[1][2]. It contains both an I-BAR domain, which binds membrane lipids and induces membrane protrusions, and a WH2 domain, which binds actin monomers and modulates filament dynamics[1]. MTSS1 acts as a scaffold for multiple interacting partners, including regulators of the actin cytoskeleton (e.g., cortactin, Rac1, α-actinin 4), signaling proteins, and E3 ubiquitin ligases, thus influencing actin-dependent processes and signaling[1][2]. Loss or downregulation of MTSS1 is frequently associated with increased invasion and metastasis in cancers such as bladder, colorectal, pancreatic, and hematopoietic malignancies, while its presence suppresses migration and proliferation of tumor cells[1][2][4]. In non-cancer biology, MTSS1 is involved in cell differentiation, particularly adipogenic and osteogenic lineages[1]. There are currently no drugs directly known to target MTSS1, but its protein levels and expression are considered potential cancer biomarkers[2]. Safety concerns for targeting MTSS1 derive from its roles in neurodevelopment and cell structure, making therapeutic intervention challenging[1].

Other names

MTSS I-BAR domain containing 1Protein MTSS1KIAA0429MIMMIMAMIMBMetastasis suppressor YGL-1Missing in metastasis proteinYGL-1