Programmed cell death 6-interacting protein (PDCD6IP)

Programmed cell death 6-interacting protein (PDCD6IP), commonly referred to as ALIX, is a multifunctional adaptor protein encoded by the PDCD6IP gene. PDCD6IP operates primarily in the ESCRT (Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport) pathway, where it regulates membrane scission in reverse-topology budding, multivesicular body formation, and exosome biogenesis. It also plays essential roles in cytokinesis, apoptosis, and the maintenance of tight junctions in epithelial cells. PDCD6IP interacts with proteins such as PDCD6 (ALG-2) in a calcium-dependent manner, endophilins (involved in membrane shape regulation during endocytosis), and CHMP4 (in ESCRT-III complexes). In viral infection contexts, its motif is mimicked by HIV proteins to facilitate viral budding. PDCD6IP is implicated in diseases such as microcephaly and cancer, and is considered a candidate biomarker, particularly in upper gastrointestinal malignancies. Despite its biological importance, approved drugs do not currently target this protein directly

Other names

ALIXAIP1Hp95KIAA1375ALG-2-interacting protein 1ALG-2-interacting protein XDRIP4MCPH29dopamine receptor interacting protein 4

Not directly applicable as no drugs are known to directly target PDCD6IP. Mechanisms involving PDCD6IP could theoretically include modulation of ESCRT pathway and viral budding, but these are investigational and not established therapies