Spermatogenesis-associated protein 18 (SPATA18)

Spermatogenesis-associated protein 18 (SPATA18), also known as mitochondria-eating protein (MIEAP), is a p53-inducible protein that orchestrates mitochondrial quality control by inducing lysosome-like organelles within mitochondria, thereby promoting the removal of oxidized or damaged mitochondrial proteins. SPATA18 achieves this by interacting with proteins at the mitochondrial outer membrane, allowing lysosomal proteins to enter mitochondria and facilitate the degradation of unhealthy mitochondria or their components. This function is associated with the maintenance of mitochondrial integrity and cellular homeostasis. Abnormalities or disturbance of SPATA18 expression are associated with diseases characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction, particularly certain cancers such as prostate cancer, and various degenerative conditions. SPATA18 expression is tightly regulated by the transcription factors p53 and p63, especially in spermatids during spermatogenesis, but is also found in other tissue types. There are currently no approved or experimental drugs known to act directly on SPATA18.

Other names

Mitochondria-eating proteinMIEAPFLJ32906SPETEX1Spermatogenesis-associated 18 homologTestis tissue sperm-binding protein Li 71n