Myosin XIX (MYO19)

Myosin XIX (MYO19) is an unconventional actin-based motor protein that localizes to the outer mitochondrial membrane, where it functions in *actin-mediated mitochondrial dynamics*, including mitochondrial movement, fission, and inheritance during mitosis[1][2][3][4][5]. MYO19 uses ATP hydrolysis to generate force along actin filaments and is essential for proper mitochondrial morphology and distribution within the cell[1][3][4]. It binds mitochondria via its C-terminal tail domain and associates with structural mitochondrial protein complexes, influencing the organization of cristae and cellular energy homeostasis[1][2]. Mutations or dysfunction in MYO19 may contribute to certain rare disorders involving impaired cellular energy regulation but it is not currently considered a direct therapeutic target[3]. MYO19 is the only known myosin that specifically localizes to mitochondria[1][2]. It is classified as an unconventional myosin, distinct from classical myosins that function in muscle[3]. Biological roles include: regulating mitochondrial cristae structure, ATP-driven movement of mitochondria along actin filaments, and contributing to proper cell division and intracellular mitochondrial distribution[1][2][3][4]. No known therapeutic drugs, direct disease biomarkers, or safety/therapeutic concerns; MYO19 does not meet typical criteria for a druggable target or receptor[3][4]. Associated diseases/phenotypes include rare genetic syndromes involving mitochondrial function or congenital abnormalities, but evidence for a direct role in common disease pathogenesis or as a biomarker is lacking[3].

Other names

Unconventional myosin-XIXMYOHD1FLJ22865Myosin head domain-containing protein 1myosin head domain containing 1