UTP6 small subunit processome component (UTP6)

UTP6 small subunit processome component (UTP6), also known as HCA66 or C17orf40, is a multifunctional protein involved primarily in **ribosomal small subunit (SSU) biogenesis** and is a core part of the SSU processome complex in the nucleolus[2][5][7]. It enables snoRNA binding and is required for the nucleolar processing of pre-18S ribosomal RNA[5][7]. UTP6 contains a distinctive half-a-tetratricopeptide (HAT) repeat domain, which mediates essential protein-protein interactions necessary for the assembly and function of the SSU processome[1][4]. Beyond ribosome biogenesis, UTP6 is implicated in cell cycle regulation by safeguarding centrosome duplication and ensuring mitotic spindle organization[3]. It also enhances the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway through direct interaction with Apaf-1, aiding apoptosome assembly and caspase activation[3]. Reduced UTP6 expression is linked to impaired apoptosis, aberrant cell proliferation, and has been observed in tumorigenesis[3]. Disease associations are mainly with genetic syndromes involving chromosome deletions and possible cancer antigenicity; there is currently no evidence that UTP6 is a direct therapeutic target or receptor, nor are any drugs known to bind UTP6 directly[7].

Other names

HCA66C17orf40Hepatocellular carcinoma-associated antigen 66Multiple hat domains proteinU3 small nucleolar RNA-associated protein 6 homolog