WD40 repeat-containing protein SMU1 (SMU1)

WD40 repeat-containing protein SMU1 is a multifunctional scaffold protein located in the nucleus, participating in both DNA replication regulation and pre-mRNA splicing as part of the spliceosome[1][2][5][6][7]. SMU1 forms complexes (notably with RED) that facilitate the activation of spliceosomes, especially crucial on short introns where structural constraints exist between splice sites[5]. Loss of SMU1 function accelerates DNA synthesis, activates replication checkpoints, and increases genomic instability, highlighting its role in maintaining genomic integrity[2][1]. SMU1 also operates as a substrate recognition module for the CRL7SMU1 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, contributing to histone H2B monoubiquitylation and proper sister chromatid cohesion[1][5]. Although WD40 proteins are increasingly recognized as druggable, there are no established drugs or clinical inhibitors specifically targeting SMU1 to date[8].

Other names

Functional spliceosome-associated protein 57Smu-1 suppressor of mec-8 and unc-52 protein homologBrain-enriched WD-repeat proteinBWDfSAP57FLJ10805SMU-1

None currently known for drugs (potential for future ligand-based modulation per WD40 druggability studies[8])