PSMF1
Description
The PSMF1 (proteasome inhibitor subunit 1) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 20.
The PSMF1 gene in humans encodes the Proteasome inhibitor PI31 subunit (hPI31) protein. The 26S proteasome, a complex responsible for protein breakdown, is composed of a 20S core and a 19S regulator. hPI31 binds to both of these components. Initially identified for its ability to block the breakdown of small synthetic peptides in laboratory settings, hPI31 surprisingly enhances the activity of the 26S proteasome in both test tubes and living cells. hPI31 can help assemble the 26S proteasome from its 19S and 20S sub-units and acts as a connector to link proteasomes with motor proteins, facilitating rapid transport within nerve cells. Disrupting the function of PSMF1 in yeast, plants, fruit flies, and mice reduces protein degradation and leads to an accumulation of misfolded protein clumps.
PSMF1 is also known as PI31.
