Related Experiment Videos
RAP, a novel type of ER chaperone
1Dept of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Trends in Cell Biology
|August 26, 1998
Summary
Receptor-associated protein (RAP) acts as a molecular chaperone, aiding the folding and transport of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor family proteins. This review explores RAP
Area of Science:
- Molecular biology
- Cell biology
- Protein folding
Background:
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor gene family proteins are crucial for cellular uptake of extracellular ligands.
- The 39-kDa receptor-associated protein (RAP) is identified as a key player in this process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of receptor-associated protein (RAP) functions.
- To elucidate RAP's role as a molecular chaperone and escort protein for LDL receptor family members.
- To present a model for RAP's mechanism of action.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on RAP and LDL receptor family proteins.
- Analysis of RAP's involvement in protein folding and the secretory pathway.
- Development of a functional model for RAP.
Main Results:
- Receptor-associated protein (RAP) facilitates the proper folding of specific LDL receptor family proteins.
- RAP assists in the transit of these proteins through the cell's secretory pathway.
Conclusions:
- Receptor-associated protein (RAP) is essential for the maturation and trafficking of LDL receptor family proteins.
- Understanding RAP's chaperone/escort functions provides insights into protein quality control within the cell.