Transmembrane channel-like (TMC) proteins are transmembrane proteins that in humans are encoded by the TMC gene family. Members of the TMC protein family in humans include TMC1-8. The best-characterized TMC1 and TMC2 are necessary for auditory transduction. Point mutations in TMC1 not only cause human deafness but also alter the mechanotransduction channel properties. Knockouts for TMC1 and TMC2 result in both auditory and vestibular deficits (hearing loss and balance issues). TMC6 has 10 transmembrane domains and 2 leucine zipper motifs. TMC6 can interact with its homolog TMC8 to form a complex with the zinc transporter 1 in vivo. Mutations in these two members are implicated as the genetic causes of the rare skin disorder epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV). This disease is featured by an increased susceptibility to human papillomaviruses (HPVs). Besides, defects in the TMC8 gene have been reported to be associated with the development of anogenital cancer.
Actually, a number of important questions regarding TMC function and mechanism remain unanswered. Based on our current studies, we can infer that further discovery of TMC function and molecular mechanisms will help accelerate the pace of the research of different diseases. Here, we give an introduction to the properties of different human TMC protein members.
Membrane proteins are required to be isolated from their lipid bilayer environment and inserted into functional formats for subsequent characterization. Aided by our powerful Magic™ membrane protein production platform, generating stable conditions for membrane proteins after extraction can be achieved at Creative Biolabs using a variety of approaches and strategies.
For example, we can incorporate your proteins into detergent micelles. To select the detergents that effectively extract the protein without compromising the integrity, we offer our comprehensive detergent screening platform. Besides, liposomes and nanodiscs that provide a more native-like environment are also available. Moreover, polymers are particularly useful for membrane protein stabilization in detergent-free solution. We can also incorporate the proteins into lipoparticles, which provides highly-concentrated proteins in native folding.
Meanwhile, we have also established our Magic™ membrane protein antibody discovery platform for further antibody discovery. We also present DNA immunization service for anti-membrane protein antibody development. Please feel free to contact us for more information.
All listed services and products are For Research Use Only. Do Not use in any diagnostic or therapeutic applications.