Transmembrane protein 81 (TMEM81)

Transmembrane protein 81 (TMEM81) is a type I transmembrane glycoprotein with a single-pass helical transmembrane domain, a large extracellular immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domain, and a short cytoplasmic tail[1][5]. Its gene is located at chromosome 1q32.1 and encodes a 255-amino-acid protein, highly conserved among vertebrates[1][3]. TMEM81 is ubiquitously expressed in humans with enhanced levels in cerebellum, testis, and spleen, and is present in spermatids of both mice and humans[1][3]. Structural studies identify TMEM81 as a close homolog of sperm fusion molecules (IZUMO1, SPACA6), suggesting a putative role in gamete membrane fusion or recognition[2][3][7]. Clinically, methylation changes or genetic variation in TMEM81 are associated with several diseases, including breast cancer, Meniere’s disease, mean platelet volume traits, and intermittent explosive disorder[1]. No drugs are currently known to target TMEM81, and its function and clinical utility remain incompletely characterized.

Other names

TMEM81HC3107KVLA2788UNQ2788MGC75217transmembrane protein 81