| Modification Notes |
Vigilin, a K homology (KH) protein, is found in the nucleus and cytoplasm of all eukaryotic species. Vigilin contains a unique structure of 14 to 15 consec-utively arranged KH domains, which function to mediate RNA-protein binding. Expression of the gene encoding Vigilin, which maps to chromosome 2q37, is essential for cell viability. Vigilin is active in heterochromatin formation and cytoplasmic mRNA decay, and can be a useful marker for translational activity. The 80S ribosome co-localizes with Vigilin, which interacts with the ribosomal complex through its C-terminal domain, suggesting its role in the link between tRNA-export and the channeled tRNA-cycle on ribosomes. Intra-cellular cholesterol upregulates Vigilin expression, and the protein specifically binds to high density lipoprotein molecules to function in the removal of excess cellular cholesterol. |