Roles of ER Membrane Protein Complex in Protein Biogenesis and Quality Control in the Lung and Beyond

Abstract

The endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex (EMC) is an evolutionarily conserved multi-subunit complex. Due to its essential roles in protein biogenesis and quality control, the EMC has attracted considerable attention in recent years. In this review, we systematically explore the functions and disease-associated regulatory mechanisms of the EMC across various organ systems. We highlight the lung as a paradigmatic model for illustrating the ‘molecular switch’ function of EMC shaped by spatiotemporal and cell-type-specific contexts. Dysfunction of EMC contributes to pathologies and cancers of diverse organs, positioning EMC subunits as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Despite considerable progress, our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of EMC in health and disease remains far from complete. Future efforts should aim to unravel the regulatory networks centered on EMC to harness their potential for cross-disease therapy development.

Keywords

EMC / lung model / protein biogenesis / protein homeostasis / protein quality control

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