Selenoprotein o

Selenoprotein O

Selenoprotein O (SelO) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SELO gene. It is a member of the selenoprotein family, proteins that contain the amino acid selenocysteine. Selenoproteins are known for their role in antioxidant defense and redox regulation.

Function

Selenoprotein O is a mitochondrial protein that is widely expressed in human tissues. It is involved in the regulation of cellular redox homeostasis and mitochondrial function. The exact function of SelO is not fully understood, but it is believed to play a role in oxidative stress response and cellular aging.

Structure

The SELO gene encodes a protein of 669 amino acids with a predicted molecular weight of 73.7 kDa. The protein contains a selenocysteine residue at position 474, which is encoded by a UGA codon that normally signals translation termination. This unusual coding mechanism is a characteristic feature of selenoproteins.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression of SelO have been associated with various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. However, the exact role of SelO in these diseases is not fully understood and is the subject of ongoing research.

File:Selenoprotein O.png

Selenoprotein O

See also

• Selenoprotein
• Selenocysteine
• Mitochondria
• Redox

References

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