Transmembrane protein 117 (TMEM117)

Transmembrane protein 117 (TMEM117) is a conserved six-pass transmembrane protein found in the plasma membrane and endoplasmic reticulum, encoded by the human TMEM117 gene on chromosome 12[7][11]. Although its precise physiological role is still being elucidated, TMEM117 is implicated in key cellular stress responses, particularly endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction[3][8][10][11]. TMEM117 expression is upregulated in cardiac hypertrophy and its deficiency attenuates disease progression, suggesting a role in modulating mitochondrial membrane potential, oxidative stress, ER stress, and cell growth impairment[1]. Preliminary evidence also links TMEM117 to cancer and transformation processes, though definitive disease associations remain preliminary[1]. TMEM117 is an emerging therapeutic target under active investigation in preclinical disease models, with functional studies predominantly utilizing genetic modulation rather than small molecules or biologic drugs[1][3][11].

Other names

TMEM117Transmembrane protein 117DKFZp434K2435

For experimental modulation: - Downregulation (knockdown or knockout) reduces oxidative stress, mitochondrial injury, and ER stress, protecting against cardiac hypertrophy. - Overexpression exacerbates hypertrophy and cell stress.