Zeta-sarcoglycan (SGCZ)

Zeta-sarcoglycan is a transmembrane glycoprotein encoded by the SGCZ gene, part of the sarcoglycan family that includes six proteins assembling into the sarcoglycan complex—a core component of the dystrophin-associated glycoprotein complex (DGC)[5][6][1]. The DGC acts as a structural bridge connecting the intracellular actin cytoskeleton to the extracellular matrix, crucial for maintaining membrane integrity in muscle cells[6][5][1]. Zeta-sarcoglycan shares structural similarity to gamma- and delta-sarcoglycan and can substitute for gamma-sarcoglycan in forming sarcoglycan complexes, notably in smooth muscle and potentially in the brain[1]. Although molecular defects in other sarcoglycans cause limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, the pathogenic role of SGCZ mutations in these and other disorders, such as obesity and myoclonus dystonia, is not fully established[3][5]. Zeta-sarcoglycan’s expression is notable in brain tissue, suggesting additional roles in the nervous system[1][3]. There are currently no therapeutic drugs targeting SGCZ, and no direct mechanisms-of-action, biomarkers, or specific safety concerns are reported in association with this protein.

Other names

ZSG1SGCZζ-sarcoglycanzeta-SGZeta-SG