NOL12
Description
The NOL12 (nucleolar protein 12) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 22.
NOL12 (Nucleolar protein 12) is a protein encoded by the NOL12 gene in humans. It resides in the nucleolus and plays a crucial role in maintaining nucleolar structure and homeostasis by regulating the levels of fibrillarin and nucleolin proteins, both essential for ribosome biogenesis. NOL12 deficiency leads to p53 activation and G2 cell cycle arrest, suggesting its involvement in cell cycle control. Furthermore, NOL12 promotes p53-induced cellular senescence, highlighting its potential role in aging. NOL12 is also critical for ribosome maturation and genome integrity. NOL12 belongs to the ribosomal binding protein (RBP) family, with homologues found in various species. For instance, its Drosophila melanogaster homologue, Viriato, is involved in eye and nervous system development, and its loss leads to developmental defects. In rats, the NOL12 homologue, Nop25, is responsible for nucleolar structure and integrity.
NOL12 is a multifunctional RNA binding protein with roles in both RNA metabolism and DNA maintenance. It contributes to the resolution of DNA stress and the maintenance of genome integrity by localizing to sites of DNA damage. NOL12 also plays a critical role in proper nucleolar organization, limiting nucleolar size and regulating nucleolar number. Its mechanism involves regulating the levels of fibrillarin and nucleolin, key proteins involved in pre-rRNA processing and ribosome assembly.
NOL12 is also known as Nop25, dJ37E16.7.
