EIF2B3 : eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2B subunit gamma
Description
The EIF2B3 (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2B subunit gamma) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 1.
The EIF2B3 gene provides instructions for creating one of the five subunits, specifically the gamma subunit, of the eIF2B protein. eIF2B protein plays a critical role in regulating overall protein production within the cell. It interacts with another protein called eIF2, which is involved in initiating protein synthesis. Under certain conditions, eIF2B enhances protein synthesis by recycling energy-carrying molecules called GTP. However, under other circumstances, it slows down protein synthesis by tightly binding to the initiation factor, rendering eIF2B inactive and preventing GTP recycling. Precise control of protein synthesis is crucial for ensuring the cell has appropriate protein levels to respond to changing conditions. For example, cells need to produce proteins much faster when multiplying compared to when they are in a resting state.
The EIF2B3 gene encodes a protein that acts as a component of the translation initiation factor 2B (eIF2B) complex. This complex catalyzes the exchange of GDP for GTP on the eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2) complex, a process essential for protein synthesis. The EIF2B3 protein's guanine nucleotide exchange factor activity is repressed when bound to eIF2 complex phosphorylated on the alpha subunit. This inhibition limits the amount of methionyl-initiator methionine tRNA available to the ribosome, consequently repressing global translation.
EIF2B3 is also known as EIF-2B, EIF2Bgamma, VWM3.
Associated Diseases
- Leukoencephalopathy with vanishing white matter 3, with or without ovarian failure
- Leukoencephalopathy with vanishing white matter
