Myomaker, myoblast fusion factor (MYMK)

Myomaker (MYMK) is a muscle-specific transmembrane protein essential for the fusion of myoblasts—precursor muscle cells—into multinucleated myofibers, a key step in both developmental muscle formation and adult muscle regeneration[1][2][3]. MYMK is expressed specifically in muscle cells undergoing fusion and is necessary for both embryonic and adult myogenesis. Loss of MYMK function results in severe impairment of muscle formation and regeneration, as seen in both genetic studies and disease associations (e.g., Carey-Fineman-Ziter syndrome). MYMK is not a receptor, enzyme, or transporter, but rather a membrane fusogen, mediating the merging of cell plasma membranes. It acts independently of other fusogens such as myomixer/myomerger but requires co-expression of other muscle factors for full activity[1][3]. There are currently no known drugs targeting MYMK directly, nor is it an established biomarker in clinical use, but its essential and specific role makes it a focus of interest for regenerative medicine.

Other names

Protein myomakerTMEM8CTMEM226Myoblast fusion makerTransmembrane protein 8CTransmembrane protein 226