FKBP5

FK506 binding protein 5, also known as FKBP5, is a protein which in humans is encoded by the FKBP5 gene.

Function

The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the immunophilin protein family, which play a role in immunoregulation and basic cellular processes involving protein folding and trafficking. This encoded protein is a cis-trans prolyl isomerase that binds to the immunosuppressants FK506 and rapamycin. It is thought to mediate calcineurin inhibition. It also interacts functionally with mature corticoid receptor hetero-complexes (i.e. progesterone-, glucocorticoid-, mineralocorticoid-receptor complexes) along with the 90 kDa heat shock protein and P23 protein.

Clinical significance

Genetic studies have identified a role for FKBP5 in posttraumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety. For example, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in FKBP5 have been found to interact with childhood trauma to predict severity of adult posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These findings suggest that individuals with these SNPs who are abused as children are more susceptible to PTSD as adults. FKBP5 has also been found to be less expressed in individuals with current PTSD. The FKBP5 gene has been found to have multiple polyadenylation sites and is statistically associated with a higher rate of depressive disorders.

Interactions

FKBP5 has been shown to interact with Heat shock protein 90kDa alpha (cytosolic), member A1.

See also

• FKBP52 - a functional antagonist to FKBP51 at corticoid receptors