Small integral membrane protein 32 (SMIM32)

Small integral membrane protein 32 (SMIM32) is a putative single-pass integral membrane protein encoded by the SMIM32 gene, with expression primarily in the brain—particularly in excitatory neurons of the claustrum (CLA), endopiriform nucleus (EP), and inhibitory neurons of the thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN)[1][6]. Its transcript is also detected at low levels in a few peripheral tissues, such as the kidney[1][5]. The protein’s precise biological function is currently unknown, and there is no evidence of it acting as a classical therapeutic target—such as a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or transcription factor—nor are there described interacting drugs or clinically established roles as a biomarker[2][4]. It has been identified as a highly specific genetic marker for claustral projection neurons in the mouse brain, aiding in the genetic targeting of this brain region in research applications[1]. Some studies mention a potential association with clear cell renal cell carcinoma, but robust mechanistic links or disease roles remain to be established[2].

Other names

SMIM32