Grp78, a 78 kDa glucose-regulated protein,
also known as BiP or immunoglobulin heavy chain binding protein,
is a stress-response
protein which is induced by agents or conditions that adversely affect endoplasmic
reticulum (ER) function . This protein is essential for
the proper glycosylation, folding and assembly of many membrane bound and secreted
proteins . Grp78 is critical for maintenance of cell homeostasis and the prevention
of apoptosis . Grp78 protein levels have been shown to be a reliable biomarker
of hypoglycermia as well as serving a neuroprotective function in neurons exposed
to glutamate and oxidative stress .Grp78 levels are reduced in the brains of
Alzheimer.s Disease patients and decreased expression of Grp78 is found associated
with missense mutations in the human presenilin-1 (PS1) gene . The induction
of the Grp78 protein has been associated with the development of drug-resistance
to antitumor drugs.
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