Transmembrane protein 88 (TMEM88)

Transmembrane protein 88 (TMEM88) is a small, evolutionary conserved transmembrane protein (159 amino acids; 17–18 kDa) encoded by the TMEM88 gene on chromosome 17p13.1. It is widely expressed in many tissues and cell types. TMEM88 acts primarily as a negative regulator of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by binding to Dishevelled proteins. Through this mechanism, it modulates crucial cellular processes including embryonic heart development, cell proliferation, invasion, differentiation, and drug resistance. TMEM88 has prominent dual roles in cancer: it can function as a tumor suppressor or promoter depending on subcellular localization and tissue context. In cancers such as ovarian, breast, and lung, altered TMEM88 expression and localization are associated with tumor stage, metastasis, prognosis, and chemotherapy resistance. TMEM88 is being explored as a therapeutic target and biomarker for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and for overcoming chemotherapy resistance.

Other names

TMEM88

Modulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by binding Dishevelled (Dvl) protein via PDZ domain interaction, affecting cell fate, proliferation, and drug resistance. Epigenetic regulation: altered methylation status changes TMEM88 levels, affecting drug response and tumor growth.