Structural highlights
Function
PICAL_RAT Cytoplasmic adapter protein that plays a critical role in clathrin-mediated endocytosis which is important in processes such as internalization of cell receptors, synaptic transmission or removal of apoptotic cells. Recruits AP-2 and attaches clathrin triskelions to the cytoplasmic side of plasma membrane leading to clathrin-coated vesicles (CCVs) assembly. Furthermore, regulates clathrin-coated vesicle size and maturation by directly sensing and driving membrane curvature. In addition to binding to clathrin, mediates the endocytosis of small R-SNARES (Soluble NSF Attachment Protein REceptors) between plasma membranes and endosomes including VAMP2, VAMP3, VAMP4, VAMP7 or VAMP8. In turn, PICALM-dependent SNARE endocytosis is required for the formation and maturation of autophagic precursors. Modulates thereby autophagy and the turnover of autophagy substrates such as MAPT/TAU or amyloid precursor protein cleaved C-terminal fragment (APP-CTF).[UniProtKB:Q13492][1]
Evolutionary Conservation
Check, as determined by ConSurfDB. You may read the explanation of the method and the full data available from ConSurf.
References
- ↑ Kim HL, Kim JA. Purification of clathrin assembly protein from rat liver. Exp Mol Med. 2000 Dec 31;32(4):222-6. PMID:11190274 doi:10.1038/emm.2000.36
