SELENOP

This gene encodes a selenoprotein that is predominantly expressed in the liver and secreted into the plasma. This selenoprotein is unique in that it contains multiple selenocysteine (Sec) residues per polypeptide (10 in human), and accounts for most of the selenium in plasma. It has been implicated as an extracellular antioxidant, and in the transport of selenium to extra-hepatic tissues via apolipoprotein E receptor-2 (apoER2). Mice lacking this gene exhibit neurological dysfunction, suggesting its importance in normal brain function. Sec is encoded by the UGA codon, which normally signals translation termination. The 3' UTRs of selenoprotein mRNAs contain a conserved stem-loop structure, designated the Sec insertion sequence (SECIS) element, that is necessary for the recognition of UGA as a Sec codon, rather than as a stop signal. The mRNA for this selenoprotein contains two SECIS elements. The use of alternative polyadenylation sites, one located in between the two SECIS elements, results in two populations of mRNAs containing either both (predominant) or just the upstream SECIS element (PMID:27881738). Alternatively spliced transcript variants have also been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Oct 2018]

A protein domain is a distinct structural or functional region within a protein that can evolve, function, and exist independently of the rest of the protein chain. These domains in human SELENOP often fold into stable, three-dimensional structures and are associated with specific biological functions, such as binding to DNA, other proteins, or small molecules.

The most significant associations for this gene, including commonly observed domains, pathway involvement, and functional highlights based on current data.

Locations within the cell where the protein is known or predicted to be active, providing insight into its function and cellular context.

Describes the biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions associated with the human SELENOP gene, providing context for its role in the cell.