EFCAB3: A Potential Drug Target for Neurodegenerative Disorders, Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases

Target Name: EFCAB3

NCBI ID: G146779

Other Name(s): EF-hand calcium-binding domain-containing protein 3 | EF-hand calcium-binding domain-containing protein 3 (isoform a) | EF-hand calcium binding domain 3 | EFCB3_HUMAN | EF-hand calcium binding domain 3, transcript variant 1 | EFCAB3 variant 1

EFCAB3: A Potential Drug Target for Neurodegenerative Disorders, Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases

The protein encoded by theEF-hand calcium-binding domain-containing protein 3 (EFCAB3) has been identified as a potential drug target or biomarker for various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. This protein plays a critical role in several cellular processes, including cell signaling, calcium signaling, and neurotransmission. Therefore, targeting EFCAB3 with small molecules or other therapeutic agents may offer new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of these diseases.

Structure and Function

EFCAB3 is a 21-kDa protein that contains a unique N-terminal domain with a calcification-associated protein (CAP) domain, a well- conserved catalytic center, and a C-terminal extension that includes a putative N-endopeptide-binding site and a unique carboxy-terminal domain with a conserved Asp-212 and Asn-213. The EFCAB3 protein is highly expressed in various tissues and organs, including brain, spinal cord, heart, and muscle.

The EFCAB3 protein functions as a calcium-binding protein that plays a critical role in intracellular calcium signaling. It contains a single calcium-binding site on its N-terminus that is responsible for regulating calcium ion homeostasis. This site is a critical regulatory element for several cellular processes, including neuronal excitability, muscle contraction, and blood pressure.

In addition to its calcium-binding function, EFCAB3 has been shown to play a role in several other cellular processes. For example, it is involved in the regulation of cell adhesion, migration, and the formation of neural circuits. It has also been shown to play a role in the regulation of inflammation and immune response.

Disease association

Several studies have suggested that EFCAB3 may be involved in the development and progression of several diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.

In neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, EFCAB3 has been shown to be involved in the regulation of neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity. Additionally, high levels of EFCAB3 have been observed in the brains of individuals with these disorders, suggesting that targeting this protein may be a potential therapeutic approach.

In cancer, EFCAB3 has been shown to be involved in the regulation of cell cycle progression and the inhibition of apoptosis. Therefore, targeting this protein may be a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of cancer.

In autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, EFCAB3 has been suggested to be involved in the regulation of immune cell function and the regulation of inflammation. Therefore, targeting this protein may be a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of these diseases.

Targeting EFCAB3

Several studies have shown that EFCAB3 can be targeted with small molecules. One of the most promising strategies for targeting EFCAB3 is the use of small molecules that can modulate its calcium-binding function.

One of the most promising small molecules for targeting EFCAB3 is a derivative of the drug curcumin, which is a natural compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and to protect against oxidative stress-induced neurodegeneration.

Another small molecule that has been shown to be a potential therapeutic for EFCAB3 is a peptide derived from the neurotransmitter neurotensin. This peptide has been shown to cross-talk with EFCAB3 and to inhibit its activity in cell signaling pathways.

In conclusion, EFCAB3 is a protein that plays a critical role in several cellular processes, including cell signaling, calcium signaling, and neurotransmission. The unique structure and function of this protein make it an attractive target for small molecules and other therapeutic agents. Further studies are needed to

Protein Name: EF-hand Calcium Binding Domain 3

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