The translocator protein (TSPO, also known as translocator protein 18 kDa) is a transmembrane protein primarily found in the outer mitochondrial membrane. TSPO is involved in multiple processes, including regulation of cell death, cholesterol transport and steroid biosynthesis, mitochondrial respiration and oxidation and mitochondrial protein import. It was proposed to form a complex with several proteins of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP), an important regulator of apoptotic and necrotic cell death during injury. However, its function with PTP is controversial.
Taxonomy/Path:
InterPro : TspO/MBR-related protein / Translocator protein