ESYT1

ESYT1, also known as extended synaptotagmin 1, is a protein that plays a crucial role in intermembrane lipid transfer. It is anchored in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane and interacts with the outer mitochondrial membrane protein SYNJ2BP, facilitating calcium and lipid transfer between these organelles. ESYT1 is involved in maintaining mitochondrial and cellular homeostasis through its regulation of mitochondria-ER contact sites (MERCs). This protein has been linked to various signaling pathways, including calcium signaling and lipid metabolism, and its dysregulation has been associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
In terms of drug development, research is ongoing to understand the role of ESYT1 in disease pathogenesis, with potential implications for therapeutic interventions. The identification of ESYT1's interaction with other proteins and its role in MERCs opens avenues for the development of novel drugs targeting this protein complex to treat related diseases.