Non-canonical Functions of Membrane Proteins: Novel Opportunities for Drug Discovery

Dear Colleagues,

Membrane proteins and cell-surface-associated biomolecules have a diverse range of well-established and classically characterized functions that help cells to communicate, maintain their shape, respond to various stimuli, and transport innumerable biomolecules in and out of the cell. In addition to these established activities, a number of membrane molecules possess alternative noncanonical features, which simultaneously perform multiple autonomous and often unrelated activities executed by distinct domains and motifs. Their discovery led to a resurrection of scientifically long-forgotten membrane molecules, thereby increasing their attractiveness as novel drug targets for human diseases. Here, particularly noteworthy is Na⁺-dependent taurocholate cotransporting peptide, a major hepatic bile acid transporter, which has recently been reported as a functional receptor for hepatitis B virus. Other examples include, but are not limited to, the G-protein-coupled receptor kinase-2 and membrane-associated plasminogen receptors such as enolase or glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase.

Although a number of multitasking membrane proteins have recently been identified, thereby improving our understanding of cellular diversity and complexity, several noncanonical protein functions remain to be uncovered. Hence, identification and comprehensive analysis of these functional features will lead to important new insights into molecular mechanisms of human diseases and improved drug discovery strategies to produce novel therapeutics.

This Special Issue aims to collect original research and review articles focused on noncanonical functions of integral/peripheral membrane proteins and membrane-bound biomolecules and their indisputable importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis and in triggering pathological processes involved in the development and progression of various disorders.

Dr. Dariusz Zakrzewicz
Guest Editor

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• Non-canonical protein function
• Multitasking protein
• Peripheral and integral membrane proteins
• Membrane-associated biomolecule
• Membrane transporter
• Cell surface receptor
• Signal transduction
• Host-pathogen interaction
• Protein-Protein interaction