GPBP or CERT: The Roles in Autoimmunity, Cancer or Neurodegenerative Disease-A Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Immunology

Background:

• Goodpasture antigen-binding protein (GPBP) was identified in 1999 for its interaction with the Goodpasture antigen, relevant to autoimmune Goodpasture syndrome.
• A 2003 splice variant, Ceramide Transfer Protein (CERT), highlighted its role in cytosolic ceramide transport.
• The dual identity and functions of GPBP/CERT have led to distinct research fields and implications in various pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize existing literature on the dual roles of GPBP/CERT.
• To assess the evidence supporting its functions in collagen organization and ceramide transport.
• To identify gaps in knowledge and suggest future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines.
• Searches conducted on Medline (PubMed) and Web of Science databases (February-November 2022).
• Analysis of 47 selected publications from an initial pool of 465 records.

Main Results:

• The literature predominantly supports GPBP/CERT's function as a ceramide transporter.
• No studies contradict the proposed roles of GPBP/CERT in either collagen organization or ceramide transport.
• Substantial scientific evidence supports both hypothesized functions.

Conclusions:

• GPBP/CERT are multifunctional proteins with roles extending beyond collagen organization and ceramide transport.
• Evidence supports their involvement in autoimmune disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer.
• Continued investigation is crucial for understanding their complex roles and developing therapeutic strategies.