New Discovery on Protein Interaction and Proliferation of Melanoma
Source: Doc Wire News, December 2024
Melanoma that proliferates from pigment-producing melanocytes is the deadliest form of skin cancer, which can be caused by extensive ultraviolet light exposure, especially in individuals with low levels of melanin. A team led by Professor Christian Grimm and Dr. Karen Bartel investigated the molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis, revealing the interplay between two proteins, the ion channel TPC2 and the enzyme Rab7a, promote melanoma growth and metastasis. The results were published in Nature Communications.
Mutations in the ion channel TPC2, which increase its activity, are linked to traits like fair skin, blond hair, and albinism. These characteristics make individuals more vulnerable to melanoma, as their skin is less protective against UV radiation. Conversely, the absence of TPC2 reduces melanoma risk.
TPC2 plays a key role in breaking down proteins within endolysosomes, cell structures involved in transport and degradation, which influences the signaling pathways responsible for regulating tumor growth.