Voltage-dependent anion channel 1 pseudogene

Voltage-dependent anion channel 1 pseudogene (often denoted as LOC644169 and ENSG00000254595) refers to a non-coding DNA sequence in the human genome that bears high sequence similarity to the functional VDAC1 gene, but has lost the capability to code for a functional protein due to mutations or rearrangements[5][8]. Pseudogenes like this are historically thought of as "junk DNA" but there is evidence some can be transcribed to RNA and, in rare cases, play regulatory roles—such as modulating levels of related functional genes through RNA interference, antisense mechanisms, or acting as microRNA decoys[2]. However, there is no evidence that this specific pseudogene encodes a protein or functions as an ion channel, receptor, or any conventional therapeutic target. Rather, it may be subject to epigenetic regulation, and its transcripts (if present) may participate in subtle gene regulatory networks, but there are no established roles as a drug target, biomarker, or cause of pathology[6][8][2]. Additional notes: - This is a pseudogene, not a functional gene/protein. Therefore, it is not considered a druggable or classical biological target in therapeutic development[5][8]. - No known drugs, mechanisms of action, safety concerns, or biomarker applications are associated with this specific pseudogene. - The main functional gene, **VDAC1**, encodes a mitochondrial ion channel with roles in cell metabolism, apoptosis, and disease, but the pseudogene does **not** share these biochemical activities[3][7]. - Multiple VDAC1 pseudogenes exist in the human genome, typically classified by chromosome location (e.g., VDAC1P8), all non-functional at the protein level[6][9]. If you require information about the **functional VDAC1 protein**, which is an established ion channel implicated in pathology and drug development, please specify. This entry strictly covers the non-functional pseudogene.

Other names

ENSG00000254595LOC644169VDAC1 pseudogene