The SRP72 gene encodes the 72-kD subunit of the signal recognition particle (SRP), a ribonucleoprotein complex that mediates the targeting of proteins to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) (summarized by Lutcke et al., 1993 [PubMed 8388879]). The complex consists of a 7S (or 7SL) RNA and 6 different proteins, SRP9 (MIM 600707), SRP14 (MIM 600708), SRP19 (MIM 182175), SRP54 (MIM 604857), SRP68 (MIM 604858), and SRP72. The proteins are bound to the 7S RNA as monomers (SRP19 and SRP54) or heterodimers (SRP9/SRP14 and SRP68/SRP72). SRP9 and SRP14 constitute the Alu domain of 7S, whereas the other 4 proteins belong to the S domain. SRP has at least 3 distinct functions that can be associated with the protein subunits: signal recognition, translational arrest, and ER membrane targeting by interaction with the docking protein.[supplied by OMIM]. Publication Note: This RefSeq record includes a subset of the publications that are available for this gene. Please see the Gene record to access additional publications.
Signal-recognition-particle assembly has a crucial role in targeting secretory proteins to the rough endoplasmic reticulum membrane. Binds the 7S RNA only in presence of SRP68. This ribonucleoprotein complex might interact directly with the docking protein in the ER membrane and possibly participate in the elongation arrest function.