Vacuolar protein sorting-associated protein 16 homolog (VPS16)

VPS16 functions as a core structural subunit of both the CORVET and HOPS multi-protein complexes, which mediate tethering and fusion of endosomal and lysosomal membranes[6][1][2][5]. VPS16 binds specifically to VPS33A, facilitating the recruitment of SNARE protein complexes and regulating vesicle fusion events critical for endocytic and autophagic trafficking[6][5][2][3]. Defects in VPS16 (mutations or reduced expression) result in impaired endosome and lysosome fusion, causing cellular trafficking defects and disease phenotypes similar to lysosomal storage disorders[7]. VPS16 itself is not a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or transcription factor, but is an essential adaptor and organizer within these trafficking complexes[6][1][2][7]. In summary: VPS16 is crucial as an organizing scaffold for membrane fusion in the endolysosomal system, working within the CORVET and HOPS complexes as a structural trafficking protein, not as a classical direct drug target[6][1][7].

Other names

VPS16hVPS16DYT30Vacuolar protein sorting-associated protein 16 homologCORVET/HOPS core subunitVacuolar protein sorting 16 homologVacuolar protein sorting protein 16