Transmembrane protein 47 (TMEM47)

Transmembrane protein 47 (TMEM47) is a member of the PMP22/EMP/claudin protein family, localized primarily to the endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane. TMEM47 plays key roles in the organization of cell junctions, particularly facilitating the transition from adherens to tight junctions in epithelial cells, and it regulates F-actin assembly essential for junctional protein localization. Functionally, TMEM47 is emerging as a critical modulator of chemoresistance in cancer. In hepatocellular carcinoma, increased TMEM47 expression correlates with resistance to cisplatin therapy; its suppression restores sensitivity by promoting apoptosis and repressing drug efflux and metabolism genes such as ABCC1. Similarly, TMEM47 is strongly linked to the acquisition of tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer. TMEM47 is also involved in podocyte differentiation and may impact cellular signaling relevant to nephrin and FYN. Because of its role in therapy resistance and potential as a response biomarker, TMEM47 is being explored as a candidate therapeutic target, though its broad physiological roles highlight challenges for selective modulation

Other names

TM4SF10BCMP1VAB-9Brain cell membrane protein 1Transmembrane 4 superfamily member 10

Modulation of apoptosis (caspase-mediated activation after inhibition) and suppression of drug efflux and metabolism genes (e.g., ABCC1/MRP1) by TMEM47 inhibition sensitizes tumor cells to chemotherapy