Protein phosphatase with EF-hand domain 1 (PPEF1)

Protein phosphatase with EF-hand domain 1 is a member of the serine/threonine phosphatase family, containing at least two EF-hand calcium-binding motifs at its C-terminus. It is regulated by calmodulin and calcium ions, which activate the enzyme by relieving auto-inhibition mediated by an extended-IQ motif and EF-hand interaction. PPEF1 is implicated in apoptosis regulation—especially in cancer—by dephosphorylating PDCD5 and influencing p53 responses. It is highly conserved, shares sequence similarity with Drosophila’s retinal degeneration C gene, and is expressed in sensory neurons and testicular germ cells. Several splice variants exist, and dysfunction is associated with retinal degeneration, lymphoma, epilepsy, and tumorigenesis. As a calmodulin-binding protein integral to neuronal, visual, and reproductive functions, PPEF1 presents a potential therapeutic and diagnostic target in oncology and reproductive medicine.

Other names

PPEFPP7PPP7CAPPP7CSerine/threonine-protein phosphatase with EF-hands 1

Theoretically, inhibition of PPEF1 would increase apoptosis in cancer cells by stabilizing PDCD5 and stimulating p53-mediated apoptotic responses. No agents or validated inhibitors are reported.