Zinc finger CCHC-type containing 18 (ZCCHC18)

Zinc finger CCHC-type containing 18 (ZCCHC18) is a protein encoded by the ZCCHC18 gene in humans and is a member of the paraneoplastic Ma antigen (PNMA) family[1]. ZCCHC18 contains a conserved CCHC-type zinc finger domain, a structural motif that enables binding to zinc ions and is often involved in nucleic acid recognition and binding[1][3][5]. ZCCHC18 is reported to act as a ligand-dependent nuclear receptor transcription coactivator, suggesting a potential role in the regulation of gene expression through interactions with nuclear receptors[1]. Members of the broader ZCCHC protein family frequently function as RNA-binding proteins and take part in diverse cellular processes related to DNA and RNA metabolism, but the precise physiological functions of ZCCHC18 remain incompletely characterized[3][5]. In mammals, PNMA family members are also noted for their brain expression and for some being autoantigens in paraneoplastic neurological syndromes, but the direct implication of ZCCHC18 in disease has not been firmly established[1]. ZCCHC18 is expressed in multiple human tissues, with the highest levels in the brain and ovary[1]. Its structure allows it to form finger-like protrusions capable of making multiple contacts with nucleic acids or proteins, but the full range of its molecular partners and cellular roles is not yet fully determined[1][3][5]. Note: There is currently no evidence that ZCCHC18 is a direct therapeutic target (such as receptor, enzyme, transporter) or that it interacts with any approved or experimental drugs[1][2][3][4][5]. The most complete sources agree on its identity as a zinc finger domain-containing transcriptional coactivator with undefined, but likely gene-regulatory, roles in human cells.

Other names

ZCCHC18SIZN2PNMA7Bparaneoplastic Ma antigen family member 7BLOC644353putative zinc finger CCHC domain-containing protein 18zinc finger, CCHC domain containing 12 pseudogene 1P0CG32ZCC18_HUMAN