Unc-119 Homolog A (UNC119) Recombinant Protein

This gene is specifically expressed in the photoreceptors in the retina. The encoded product shares strong homology with the C. elegans unc119 protein and it can functionally complement the C. elegans unc119 mutation. It has been localized to the photoreceptor synapses in the outer plexiform layer of the retina, and suggested to play a role in the mechanism of photoreceptor neurotransmitter release through the synaptic vesicle cycle. Two transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been described for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

UNC119: Myristoyl-binding protein that acts as a cargo adapter: specifically binds the myristoyl moiety of a subset of N- terminally myristoylated proteins and is required for their localization. Binds myristoylated GNAT1 and is required for G- protein localization and trafficking in sensory neurons. Binds myristoylated NPHP3; however, in contrast to UNC119B, does not seem to play a major role in ciliary membrane localization of NPHP3. Does not bind all myristoylated proteins. Probably plays a role in trafficking proteins in photoreceptor cells. Defects in UNC119 may be a cause of cone-rod dystrophy. A mutation was found in a 57-year-old woman with late- onset cone-rod dystrophy: from 40 year old, the patient suffered from poor night vision, defective color vision and light- sensitivity. At 57 year old, she displayed reduced visual acuity, myopa, macular atrophy and pericentral ring scotomas. The disease was caused by a heterozygous mutation causing premature termination and truncated UNC119 protein with dominant-negative effect. Belongs to the PDE6D/unc-119 family. 2 isoforms of the human protein are produced by alternative splicing.

Protein type: Adaptor/scaffold

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 17q11.2

Cellular Component: centrosome; cytosol; intercellular bridge; spindle midzone; spindle pole

Molecular Function: lipid binding; protein binding

Biological Process: endocytosis; lipoprotein transport; phototransduction; synaptic transmission; visual perception

Disease: Immunodeficiency 13