Variable charge X-linked protein 3 (VCX3A)

Variable charge X-linked protein 3 (VCX3A) is a small, highly charged nuclear protein encoded by the VCX3A gene, a member of the VCX/Y family found on the X chromosome and expressed primarily in male germ cells and brain tissues[1][2][4][5][7]. VCX3A acts as a noncanonical cap-binding protein that regulates mRNA stability by binding to the 5′ cap of mRNAs and inhibiting the decapping enzyme hDcp2, thereby protecting transcripts from degradation[1][4]. Studies have implicated VCX3A in neurodevelopment, including cognitive function and neuronal differentiation. Deletions or mutations affecting VCX3A have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders such as X-linked mental retardation and possibly autism spectrum disorder[2][4]. The biological function of VCX3A remains incompletely understood, but evidence indicates roles in the regulation of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and potential involvement in spermatogenesis[1][2][4][5][7].

Other names

VCX3VCX-AVCX8RVCXAVCX-8RVCX-8rVariable charge protein on X with eight repeatsVariably charged protein X-AVCX3A