CCDC88C (gene)
CCDC88C, also known as coiled-coil domain containing 88C, is a human gene that encodes a protein involved in various cellular processes, primarily related to cell signaling and migration. The gene is located on chromosome 10 at position 10q22.1.
Function:
The protein encoded by CCDC88C plays a role in the regulation of the Wnt signaling pathway, specifically acting as an activator of Wnt signaling. Wnt signaling is a crucial pathway involved in embryonic development, cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Furthermore, CCDC88C has been implicated in cell migration and adhesion, potentially through its interaction with other proteins involved in cytoskeletal organization.
Structure:
The CCDC88C protein contains a coiled-coil domain, a structural motif commonly involved in protein-protein interactions. This domain likely facilitates the interaction of CCDC88C with other proteins within the cell, contributing to its role in signal transduction and cellular processes.
Clinical Significance:
Aberrant expression or mutations in CCDC88C have been associated with certain types of cancer. Studies suggest that CCDC88C may act as an oncogene in some contexts, promoting tumor growth and metastasis. However, the precise role of CCDC88C in cancer development remains an area of active research. Further investigation is needed to fully elucidate the clinical implications of CCDC88C dysregulation.
Interactions:
The CCDC88C protein is known to interact with other proteins involved in Wnt signaling and cell migration, forming complexes that regulate cellular processes. Research continues to identify novel interaction partners of CCDC88C, providing a more complete understanding of its function within the cell.