Transmembrane protein 214 (TMEM214)

Transmembrane protein 214 (TMEM214) is a human protein localized primarily to the outer membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum, where it functions as a critical mediator of ER stress-induced apoptosis. TMEM214 achieves this role through a constitutive association and anchoring of procaspase 4, which is then activated during cellular stress resulting in apoptosis. Overexpression of TMEM214 induces apoptosis, while knockdown inhibits ER stress-induced apoptosis, confirming its essential role in cell death triggered by accumulation of misfolded proteins and ER stress. TMEM214 contains two transmembrane domains at its C-terminal region and a cytoplasmic N-terminal region important for its interaction with procaspase 4. While it is implicated in muscle diseases and may play a role in cellular responses related to cancer and tissue homeostasis, there are no established drugs, mechanisms, or biomarkers directly targeting TMEM214 clinically, nor are there reported safety concerns in therapeutic contexts.

Other names

TMEM214PP446FLJ20254transmembrane protein 214TM214_HUMAN

Anchoring procaspase 4 to the ER outer membrane. Facilitating caspase 4 activation in response to ER stress.