Trichoplein keratin filament-binding protein (TCHP)

Trichoplein keratin filament-binding protein (TCHP) is a cytoskeletal-associated protein discovered as a binder of keratins 8/18, prominent intermediate filament proteins in epithelial cells[1]. It interacts directly with several keratins (K8, K18, K16, to a lesser extent K5, K6a, K14), and colocalizes with desmosomes and keratin filaments, mainly at apical regions of simple epithelial cells[1][5]. TCHP acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting cell growth and promoting apoptosis, in part via down-regulation of HSPB1 phosphorylation in cancer cells[2][5]. It also functions as a negative regulator of ciliogenesis and may act as a capping or branching protein for keratin filaments, helping maintain epithelial cell structure and integrity[5]. Mutations or dysregulation can contribute to cancer development[2]. There are no current drugs targeting TCHP, and its main research importance lies in understanding cytoskeletal regulation and cancer biology.

Other names

TrichopleinMitostatinTpMsTRICHOPLEINTrichoplein keratin filament binding (alternate punctuations)A930031F18RIKAV279199RGD1310813