STARD3 N-terminal like protein (STARD3NL)

STARD3 N-terminal like protein (STARD3NL or MENTHO) is a membrane protein anchored to late endosomes that plays a role in creating membrane contact sites (MCS) between late endosomes and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)[2]. It possesses a conserved FFAT (two phenylalanines in an acidic tract) motif that allows specific interaction with ER-resident VAP (vesicle-associated membrane protein-associated protein) family proteins, forming tethers that allow the apposition of endosomal and ER membranes[2]. This tethering alters organelle dynamics and is implicated in the regulation of endosomal tubulation. Unlike STARD3, STARD3NL does not show evidence of direct lipid (cholesterol) transfer or well-characterized roles as a canonical drug target, enzyme, transporter, or receptor[2]. It is best described as a structural protein contributing to inter-organelle communication and membrane organization. Notes and distinctions: - STARD3NL is distinct from STARD3: STARD3 is primarily involved in cholesterol transport and has been studied in the context of metabolic disorders and cancer; STARD3NL is mainly a tethering protein without direct sterol transport activity[2][3]. - No current evidence suggests direct therapeutic targeting, biomarker use, or relevance for drug action for STARD3NL.

Other names

STARD3 N-terminal-like proteinMENTHOUNQ855/PRO1864MGC3251MLN64 N-terminal domain homolog