Parkin (protein)
Parkin (Protein)
Parkin (pronounced: pahr-kin) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the PARK2 gene. It is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that is involved in the ubiquitin-proteasome system which is responsible for protein degradation.
Etymology
The term "Parkin" is derived from the gene PARK2 which is associated with autosomal recessive juvenile Parkinson's disease. The name "Parkin" is a diminutive form of "Parkinson", indicating its smaller, yet significant role in the development of the disease.
Function
Parkin is part of the ubiquitin-proteasome system, a system that degrades proteins. It functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase that recognizes and marks specific proteins to be sent to the proteasome for degradation. It is involved in the removal of damaged or misfolded proteins that could potentially harm the cell if not removed.
Clinical Significance
Mutations in the PARK2 gene, which encodes the Parkin protein, are associated with autosomal recessive juvenile Parkinson's disease. This form of Parkinson's disease is characterized by the onset of symptoms before the age of 40. The symptoms are similar to those of the more common form of Parkinson's disease, but progress more slowly.
Related Terms
- Ubiquitin: A small protein that is used to tag other proteins for degradation.
- Proteasome: A large protein complex that degrades proteins that have been tagged with ubiquitin.
- E3 ubiquitin ligase: An enzyme that recognizes and tags specific proteins with ubiquitin.
- PARK2 gene: The gene that encodes the Parkin protein.
- Parkinson's disease: A degenerative disorder of the nervous system that affects movement.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Parkin (protein)
- Wikipedia's article - Parkin (protein)
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