Interaction networks
Protein interaction networks
The term interaction network refers to the consortium of proteins linked to a target protein of interest, for example Pendrin. The different proteins linked to Pendrin in an interaction network have been identified through research to directly (physically) or indirectly (functionally) interact with Pendrin, the protein of interest. Interaction network analysis is particularly useful in the identification of novel roles of a protein in processes or functions not previously associated with the protein.
The STRING program was used for the identification of interaction partners of Pendrin.
The STRING program was used for the identification of interaction partners of Pendrin.
Pendrin Interaction Networks
The Pendrin network generated by STRING highlights several interesting functions of Pendrin. Within the interaction network the TG, TPO, IYD, and NKX2-1 proteins all function in iodide regulation in the thyroid. The FOXI1 and GJB2 proteins function in the development of the inner ear. The functions of these proteins of these functions clearly overlap with that of Pendrin in both the thyroid and inner ear, of particular interest in the interaction network are the remaining two proteins, MUC5B and MYLIP. STRING annotates MUC5B as the primary gel-forming mucin in mucus and saliva, this is an interesting point for future direction as Pendrin expression levels have been found to increase in the lungs of asthma patients suffering asthma attack [1]. Also of interest is Pendrin's link to MYLIP, a protein identified in LDL cholesterol degredation, a function not previously investigated for the Pendrin protein.
References
Header Image Credit
[1] Nakao I, Kanaji S, Ohta S, Matsushita H, Arima K, Yuyama N, et al. Identification of pendrin as a common mediator for mucus production in bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. J. Immunol. 2008;180:6262–6269.
[1] Nakao I, Kanaji S, Ohta S, Matsushita H, Arima K, Yuyama N, et al. Identification of pendrin as a common mediator for mucus production in bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. J. Immunol. 2008;180:6262–6269.