TRIP11 gene
The TRIP11 gene provides instructions for making a protein essential for Golgi apparatus function and skeletal development.
Normal Function
The TRIP11 gene provides instructions for making a protein known as thyroid receptor-interacting protein 11 (TRIP-11). This protein is found in the Golgi apparatus, a cell structure where newly produced proteins are modified to carry out their functions. Studies suggest that TRIP-11 helps maintain the structure of the Golgi apparatus and may be involved in the transport of certain proteins out of cells.
Although TRIP-11 is found throughout the body, researchers suspect it plays a particularly important role in cells called chondrocytes in the developing skeleton. Chondrocytes give rise to cartilage, a tough, flexible tissue that makes up much of the skeleton during early development. Most cartilage is later converted to bone, except for the cartilage that continues to cover and protect the ends of bones and is present in the nose and external ears.
Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes
Achondrogenesis
Several variants (mutations) in the TRIP11 gene have been found to cause a form of achondrogenesis known as type 1A or the Houston-Harris type. This rare disorder of bone development is characterized by:
- Extremely short limbs
- A narrow chest
- Short ribs that fracture easily
- A lack of normal bone formation (ossification) in the skull, spine, and pelvis
Serious health problems result from these abnormalities, and infants with achondrogenesis usually die before or soon after birth. The TRIP11 gene variants associated with this condition often lead to the production of a nonfunctional version of TRIP-11 or prevent the cell from producing any of this protein. A shortage of TRIP-11 activity alters the structure and function of the Golgi apparatus, which impairs protein modification. Chondrocytes appear to be particularly sensitive to these changes, and malfunction of the Golgi apparatus in these cells likely underlies the problems with bone formation.
Other Names for This Gene
- ACG1A
- CEV14
- GMAP210
- ODCD
- TRIP230
