LA PROTEIN Meaning and
Definition
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La protein, also known as LUPUS-ENA (Lupus Erythematosus Antigen), is a type of RNA-binding protein that is found abundantly in the nucleus of all human cells. It is one of the most extensively studied autoantigens and is highly associated with the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
The La protein is primarily involved in the processing and maturation of RNA molecules within the cell. It binds to specific small RNA molecules called transfer RNAs (tRNAs), which are essential for protein synthesis, and ensures their stability and proper folding. This interaction between the La protein and tRNAs is crucial for their transport out of the nucleus into the cytoplasm, where they can be further processed and used in protein synthesis.
In addition to its role in tRNA metabolism, the La protein also plays a part in the regulation of other RNA species, such as small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) and small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), which are involved in various cellular processes including splicing and modification of other RNAs.
Due to its importance in RNA processing and its association with autoimmunity, the presence of La protein autoantibodies in a patient's blood is considered to be a significant diagnostic marker for SLE. These autoantibodies can be detected using specific laboratory tests, assisting in the diagnosis and management of the disease.
In summary, the La protein is an RNA-binding protein with a crucial role in RNA metabolism, particularly in the processing, stability, and transport of tRNAs. Its association with autoimmune diseases, particularly SLE, has made it an extensively studied autoantigen in the field of immunology.
Common Misspellings for LA PROTEIN
- ka protein
- pa protein
- oa protein
- lz protein
- ls protein
- lw protein
- lq protein
- la orotein
- la lrotein
- la 0rotein
- la peotein
- la pdotein
- la pfotein
- la ptotein
- la p5otein
- la p4otein
- la pritein
- la prktein
- la prltein
- la prptein
Etymology of LA PROTEIN
The word "La protein" derives from the term "La", which stands for lupus antigen. The name "La" originates from the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In SLE patients, antibodies against various components of the cell nucleus are produced, including one group of antibodies that targets a specific protein found in the nucleus. This protein was initially identified in the 1960s in the sera of patients with SLE and was subsequently named "La" in reference to lupus antigen. Thus, the word "La protein" came into use to describe this specific antigenic protein.
