VPS41

Description

The VPS41 (VPS41 subunit of HOPS complex) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 7.

VPS41 is a protein involved in vesicle-mediated protein trafficking to lysosomal compartments. It acts as a core component of the HOPS complex, involved in endosome conversion and tethering/docking events during SNARE-mediated membrane fusion. VPS41 interacts with various proteins, including RILP, MON1B, ARL8B, and STX17, and participates in the fusion of late endosomes, lysosomes, and autophagosomes. VPS41 also plays a role in transporting lysosomal membrane proteins and sorting in the regulated secretory pathway.

VPS41 plays a key role in the transport of proteins within cells, specifically to lysosomes, which are responsible for breaking down cellular waste. It contributes to various transport pathways, including endocytosis (taking in substances from outside the cell) and autophagy (the breakdown of the cell's own components). VPS41 is a component of the HOPS complex, which is crucial for tethering (holding together) and fusing (joining) different membrane-bound compartments within the cell. This complex helps guide the transition of endosomes (vesicles that transport materials) from an early stage (Rab5) to a late stage (Rab7). VPS41's involvement in the HOPS complex also plays a role in regulating the movement of late endosomes, phagocytic vesicles (which engulf and break down foreign material), and autophagosomes (vesicles involved in autophagy) towards lysosomes. Additionally, VPS41 is involved in the fusion of late endosomes with each other and with lysosomes, facilitating the degradation of materials taken into the cell. VPS41 also plays a role in transporting lysosomal membrane proteins directly from the trans-Golgi network (a part of the Golgi apparatus involved in protein processing) to late endosomes. It contributes to sorting proteins within the regulated secretory pathway, a process that releases specific cargo outside the cell in response to signals. It might have a role in the regulated secretory pathway that is independent of the HOPS complex.

VPS41 is also known as HVPS41, HVSP41, SCAR29, hVps41p.

Associated Diseases

• Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia-movement disorder syndrome
• Spinocerebellar ataxia, autosomal recessive 29