Transmembrane protein 192 (TMEM192)

Transmembrane protein 192 (TMEM192) is an integral membrane protein primarily localized on late endosomal and lysosomal membranes. It has four predicted transmembrane segments and forms homodimers via disulfide bridges at its C-terminus, which is exposed to the cytosolic compartment[1][2]. TMEM192 features critical dileucine motifs for correct lysosomal targeting[1]. Although the precise physiological function remains incompletely understood, TMEM192 participates in lysosomal quality control through ubiquitination and lysophagy, especially in response to lysosomal membrane damage[2]. Deficiency of TMEM192 in tumor cells (e.g., HepG2 hepatoma) results in impaired cell growth, increased autophagy, and apoptosis, primarily by upregulating apoptosis mediators such as Bax, caspase-3, and p38 MAPK[3]. TMEM192 is not a typical therapeutic target (not a canonical receptor or enzyme), but its roles in lysosomal homeostasis, autophagy, and apoptosis may have implications for cancer biology and lysosomal function[3][2][1]. There are currently no small-molecule drugs reported to target TMEM192 specifically in clinical or preclinical settings.

Other names

FLJ38482TMEM192