Synapse-Associated Protein 102 (SAP102), also known as Discs Large Homolog 3 (DLG3), is a 102 kDa postsynaptic scaffolding protein belonging to the Membrane-Associated Guanylate Kinase (MAGUK) family. SAP102 is primarily expressed in the brain, particularly at excitatory synapses, where it plays critical roles in organizing postsynaptic density, anchoring neurotransmitter receptors, and coordinating synaptic signaling cascades essential for learning, memory, and cognitive function.
| Synapse-Associated Protein 102 | |
|---|---|
| Protein Name | Synapse-Associated Protein 102 |
| Gene | DLG3 |
| UniProt ID | Q92796 |
| PDB Structures | 2FY7 |
| Molecular Weight | 102 kDa |
| Subcellular Localization | Postsynaptic density |
| Protein Family | MAGUK family |
SAP102 is a member of the MAGUK family of synaptic scaffold proteins that includes PSD-95, PSD-93, and SAP97. Unlike its relatives, SAP102 is prominently expressed during early development and in specific brain regions including the hippocampus and cortex. SAP102 contains three PDZ domains, an SH3 domain, and a guanylate kinase domain, enabling it to interact with numerous synaptic proteins including NMDA receptors, AMPA receptors, and various signaling molecules.
DLG3, the gene encoding SAP102, is located on the X chromosome and is expressed predominantly in neural tissue. SAP102 is crucial for synaptic plasticity and cognitive function, as evidenced by studies showing that DLG3 mutations are associated with intellectual disability and neurodevelopmental disorders. In the context of neurodegeneration, SAP102 interactions with amyloid-beta and tau pathology are areas of active investigation. The protein's role in regulating receptor trafficking and synaptic signaling makes it relevant to understanding synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias.
Synapse-Associated Protein 102 is a 102 kDa protein belonging to the MAGUK family.
SAP102 is a MAGUK family scaffold protein involved in synaptic organization and signal transduction. It interacts with NMDA receptors and various signaling molecules.
SAP97 in neurodegeneration:
Regulates amyloid-beta toxicity
Links to apoptotic pathways
Alzheimer's Disease, Intellectual Disability
Further research is needed to identify key publications for this protein.