S-phase cyclin A-associated protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (SCAPER)

S-phase cyclin A-associated protein in the endoplasmic reticulum (SCAPER) is a membrane-associated regulatory protein that primarily interacts with the Cyclin A/Cdk2 complex and modulates its subcellular localization by sequestering it in the endoplasmic reticulum and cytoplasm[1][3][5]. SCAPER is ubiquitously expressed in human tissues, with highest levels in testis, and contains motifs necessary for nucleic acid and zinc ion binding, featuring a C2H2-type zinc finger, a transmembrane domain, ER retrieval signal, coiled-coil domains, and multiple cyclin-binding and Cdk phosphorylation motifs[3][5]. Its main role is in cell cycle regulation, promoting timely transition through S and M phases by regulating cyclin A/Cdk2's distribution between the cytoplasm and nucleus[1][2][3]. SCAPER is also implicated in ciliary disassembly during the cell cycle and is required for retina development. Pathogenic mutations in SCAPER cause autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa with or without intellectual disability, and there are indications it may contribute to oncogenic processes due to its regulation of cyclin A in the cytoplasm[1][3][5]. No drugs currently target SCAPER directly, and its main medical importance is as a cause of rare inherited ciliopathy syndromes.

Other names

S-phase cyclin A-associated protein in the ERSCAPERKIAA1454ZNF291MSTP063Zfp291Zinc finger protein 291S phase cyclin A–associated protein residing in the endoplasmic reticulumIDDRPFLJ31953FLJ46212FLJ31533