Transmembrane protein 238 (TMEM238)

Transmembrane protein 238 (TMEM238) is an integral membrane protein encoded by the TMEM238 gene on chromosome 19q13.42 in humans[2][3]. It is predicted to contain two transmembrane domains, with expression most highly detected in the stomach and colon, and lower but variable levels throughout other tissues[2]. The protein is composed of 176 amino acids and localizes to the plasma membrane based on its structural properties[2][3]. While annotated as potentially participating in amino acid transport and membrane structure, no definitive biochemical function has been confirmed in human studies[2]. Some literature links this gene to Bardet-Biedl Syndrome 2, and gene expression data suggest possible roles in certain conditions (asthma, POEMS syndrome, low-invasive breast cancer), though no mechanistic connection is currently established[2]. Functional studies in mice suggest a related protein (SPESP1) may be involved in sperm function and fertility, but clear direct annotation of this function to human TMEM238 is lacking[1]. There are no known drugs, diagnostic, or therapeutic applications directly targeting TMEM238 at this time[5].

Other names

Transmembrane protein 238TMEM238

Not applicable (no drugs known to directly target TMEM238)