Transmembrane protein 72 (TMEM72)

Transmembrane protein 72 (TMEM72) is a four-transmembrane domain, integral membrane protein of approximately 37 kDa, predominantly localized to the plasma membrane with some presence in early endosomes[1][2][3]. TMEM72 is primarily expressed in the kidney[1][7] and plays an essential role in membrane protein folding, assembly, and trafficking—specifically, in COPII-mediated ER-to-membrane transport[1][2][3][5]. The protein's C-terminal region (particularly residues 132–144) is critical for proper trafficking, which is similarly reflected in its role during normal kidney development and maintenance of membrane integrity[1][2][5]. TMEM72 expression is downregulated in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and dysfunction may contribute to renal tumorigenesis and chronic kidney disease[3][5][12]. While TMEM72 is functionally uncharacterized in many respects and is not currently established as a therapeutic target, its characteristics suggest it acts as a membrane scaffold or organizer rather than a classical druggable receptor, enzyme, or transporter[1][5][6]. The gene encoding TMEM72 is located on chromosome 10 (C10orf127), and a mouse homolog (Tmem72) shares similar characteristics[4][7]. There is no strong evidence for TMEM72 acting as a direct receptor, transporter, or enzyme, nor are there current drugs or recognized biomarkers targeting it[1][6][7][10]. It may have emerging significance in renal cancer biology, but mechanistic and clinical data are limited at this time[5][12].

Other names

C10orf127KSP37Kidney-specific secretory protein of 37 kDabA285G1.3