Phospholipid scramblase 3 (PLSCR3)

Phospholipid scramblase 3 (PLSCR3) is an ATP-independent, calcium-induced enzyme responsible for rapid bidirectional transport ("scrambling") of specific mitochondrial phospholipids, primarily cardiolipin, across mitochondrial membranes. This activity is critical for mitochondrial membrane organization, the apoptotic release of cytochrome c, and amplification of apoptotic signaling. PLSCR3 also modulates adipocyte differentiation as a negative regulator, and knockout models in mice reveal its essential role in preventing obesity, insulin resistance, and lipid accumulation. PLSCR3 belongs to both the scramblase family and the Tubby-like superfamily of transcription regulators. Though central to apoptosis and metabolic homeostasis, drug development targeting PLSCR3 remains unestablished, and the protein plays pleiotropic roles in cell signaling and transcriptional regulation.

Other names

Phospholipid scramblase 3PLSCR3PL scramblase 3Ca(2+)-dependent phospholipid scramblase 3Scr3