Protein phosphatase targeting COQ7 (PPTC7)

Protein phosphatase targeting COQ7 (PPTC7) is a mitochondrial serine/threonine phosphatase of the PP2C family, crucial for mitochondrial protein dephosphorylation, biogenesis, and metabolism. PPTC7 supports the biosynthesis of coenzyme Q (ubiquinone) by dephosphorylating and activating COQ7. It acts as a negative regulator of mitophagy through direct interaction and dephosphorylation of mitophagy receptors BNIP3 and NIX, maintaining mitochondrial content and function. Genetic deletion in mice causes a dramatic reduction of mitochondrial mass, severe metabolic consequences, and neonatal death, while overexpression can paradoxically induce mitophagy, illustrating its tightly regulated role in cellular homeostasis. PPTC7 is not currently targeted by therapeutics, but its critical functions underscore its potential relevance in mitochondrial disease and perhaps metabolic syndromes.

Other names

Protein phosphatase PTC7 homologPPTC7T-cell activation protein phosphatase 2CT-cell activation protein phosphatase 2C-likeT cell activation protein phosphatase 2CTA-PP2CTAPP2Cprotein phosphatase PTC7 homologPTC7 protein phosphatase homolog

Not established; lack of drugs interacting with this target means mechanisms are not defined.