Paralemmin-1 (PALM)

Paralemmin-1 is a membrane-associated protein that acts as a critical regulator of the submembrane cytoskeleton, particularly in neurons where it controls the organization of the membrane-associated periodic skeleton (MPS)[1][3]. It is anchored to the plasma membrane via prenylation and palmitoylation at a C-terminal CaaX motif[2]. Paralemmin-1 stimulates cell expansion, filopodia, neurite and dendritic spine formation, and plays a role in cell growth and the development of neuronal processes[1][2]. High paralemmin-1 expression levels tightly organize the cytoskeletal scaffold, while its absence disrupts neuronal electrical signaling[1][3]. It interacts with βII-spectrin and possibly other cytoskeletal or membrane proteins; mutations in its binding domain are implicated in neurological disorders[1][3]. Beyond the nervous system, increased paralemmin-1 expression is correlated with cancer invasiveness and metastasis[2]. There is no evidence for direct pharmacological targeting by approved drugs, nor is it described as a conventional therapeutic target such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter[2][4]. Paralemmin-1 is part of the paralemmin gene family, which arose early in vertebrate evolution and diversified to fulfill specialized cellular roles[2].

Other names

Paralemmin-1PALMKIAA0270PALM1Paralemmin