Abbreviations
Note: Many abbreviations are traditionally not fully capitalized (such as Akt). Formally,
abbreviations with an initial capital letter followed by lower-case letters are used to refer
to mouse genes while all capitals are used for human genes, but the literature is not always
consistent. The most common usage is given below.
14-3-3
A20
ABIN1
ABIN2
Abl
ACAT1
ACK
ACT1
ADAM17
Refers to the fraction in which the first of these adaptor proteins was
identified (now 7 human isoforms are recognized). 14-3-3 homo- and
heterodimers bind to phosphorylated serine residues and can hold
their clients (such as Raf1 and ASK1) inactive in the cytoplasm. For
Raf1, one binding site is inactivating while another stabilizes and
supports activity by allowing ATP binding.
an arbitrary designation based on examination of rapidly expressed
mRNAs in response to TNFα. Also known as TNFAIP3 (TNFα- induced
protein 3). It is a deubiquitinase or ubiquitin editing enzyme and
limits or terminates NF-κB signaling by TNFR superfamily receptors
A20-binding inhibitor of NF-κB. Binds ubiquitin chains on RIP1 and
inhibits binding of caspase 8 to FADD, thereby blocking complex II
formation and apoptotic signaling from TNFR1.
A20-binding inhibitor of NF-κB. Promotes A20 activity in Tie2
signaling.
Abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene homolog 1. A non-receptor
tyrosine kinase.
Acyl-coenzyme A acyl transferase 1. ACAT1 is in macrophages.
ACAT2 is in liver and intestine, not macrophages.
activated Cdc42-associated kinase.
NF-κB activator 1. Also known as TRAF3IP2 (TRAF3-interacting
protein 2) and CIKS (connection to IκB kinase and stress-activated
protein kinase) among others. Recently shown to be an adaptor to the
IL-17R family which then binds and activates TRAF6.
a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17. Also known as TACE (tumor
necrosis factor-alpha converting enzyme).
ADAMTS1
a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motif 1
ADFP
adipose differentiation-related protein
ADMA
AGE
asymetrical dimethyl arginine
advanced glycation end-products
AIF-1
allograft inflammatory factor 1
AIP1
ASK1-interacting protein 1. Also known as DAB2IP (DAB2 interacting
protein). It acts both as an adapter and has GAP activity.
AIM
AKIP1
Akt
apoptosis inhibitor expressed by macrophages. Also called Spα or
Api6.
Protein kinase A-interacting protein 1. Also known as C11orf17
(chromosome 11 open reading frame 17) protein and BCA3 (breast
cancer associated gene 3) protein. Links PKA activation by cAMP
(which binds the 2 regulatory subunits of resting PKA and releases
the active catalytic PKAc dimer) to p65 (RelA), promoting
phosphorylation of Ser-276 or p65 and transactivation of NF-κB
signaling. (see Gao N, Hibi Y, Cueno M, Asamitsu K, Okamoto T. Akinase-interacting protein 1 (AKIP1) acts as a molecular determinant
of PKA in NF-kappaB signaling. J Biol Chem 2010;285:28097-104.)
Also known as PKB. First identified as an oncogene from the AKT-8
thymoma cell line which was derived from the AKR/J mouse.
“Following a recent research presentation on Akt, I was asked
what Akt stands for....a question to which I had no solid reply...so, here
it is...
“After an extensive literature search, it turns out the origins of
Akt date back to 1928, where J. Furth performed experimental studies
on mice that developed spontaneous thymic lymphomas. Mice from
three different stocks designated A, R, and S were studied. Stock A
was noted to yield many cancers, and inbred families were
subsequently designated by a second small letter...Aa, Ab, Ac...thus the
Ak strain of mice. Further inbreeding was undertaken with Ak mice at
the Rockefeller Institute in 1936, leading to the designation of the
AKR mouse strain. In 1977, a transforming retrovirus was isolated
from the AKR mouse. This virus was named Akt-8, the "t"
representing its transforming capabilities. Ten years later the
AMPK
ANRIL
AP1
aP2
APE1/Ref1
AR
ARE
ARF
Arf-GEF1
ASC
ARF
ARNO
AS160
ASK1
proviral DNA was cloned and the viral oncogene, v-akt, was
discovered. Human homologues Akt1 and Akt2 were later discovered,
with gene amplification noted in a human gastric cancer. Akt is now
known to regulate many normal cellular functions, and loss of
regulatory control has been implicated in many human cancers.”
(From an internet chat site.)
AMP-activated protein kinase.
antisense noncoding RNA in the INK4 locus. Within the 9p21.3 region
linked by GWAS to CAD.
activator proteins 1, are homo- or heterodimers of the subfamilies
Jun, Fos, ATF2, or MAF. c-fos and c-Jun are commonly found together.
They may be activated by MAP kinases JNK or p38.
adipocyte protein 2. Also known as FABP4 (fatty acid binding protein
4)
AP endonuclease 1/redox factor 1. Forms a complex with nuclear Trx
and reduces Cys62 or p50 for efficient DNA binding.
aldose reductase. Also known as akr1b3 (aldo-keto reductase 1b3).
antioxidant response element
alternate reading frame, also known as p19ARF and encoded by
CDKN2A (cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 2A)
ADP-ribosylation factor guanine nucleotide exchange factor 1 (also
abbreviated as ARFGEF1)
apoptosis-associated Speck-like protein containing a CARD (caspaseassociated recruitment domain). Also known as PYCARD (PYD and
CARD domain-containing protein).
alternate reading frame. Also known as p19ARF. Encoded by CDKN4A,
located near the 9p21.3 CAD risk-associated locus.
ARF nucleotide-binding site opener
AKT substrate of 160 kDa, a GAP (GTPase activating protein) directed
against Rabs
apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1
ASM
acid sphingomyelinase
ATF2
activating transcription factor 2. The protein forms a homodimer or
heterodimer with c-Jun and stimulates CRE-dependent transcription.
AT1R
ATM
ATP
Bach1
Bad
BAFF
Bax
Bcl2
Bcl6
Bcl10
angiotensin II type 1 receptor
ataxia telangiectasia mutated. ATM, together with a closely related
protein, ATR (ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related with Rad3
performing a similar function in a particular yeast), are kinases that
are activated by various DNA damage surveillance proteins. Once
active, ATM phosphorylates and activates Chk2 while ATR activates
Chk1. Chk1/2 can lead to cell cycle arrest by marking for
ubiquitination and degradation a key phosphatase (Cdc25A) required
for progression of the cell cycle. In addition, both ATM and ATR
phosphorylate p53 and inhibit its constitutive ubiquitination and
degradation. Rising levels of the p53 transcription factor leads to
transcription of a number of cell cycle-inhibiting genes such as p21CIP
which binds and inhibits all cyclin-CDK complexes, thereby arresting
cells in G1 or G2 until the DNA damage is repaired. Alternatively, with
extensive DNA damage, p53 can lead to apoptosis.
Adenosine tri-phosphate
Btb And Cnc Homology 1, a transcriptional repressor that can occupy
many ARE sites activated by Nrf2.
Bcl-2-associated death promoter. A key regulatory protein for
apoptosis. When phosphorylated (through growth factor receptors) it
prevents apoptosis. When un-phosphorylated it promotes apoptosis.
B-cell activating factor belonging to the TNF1 family. Also known as
TNFRSF13C (tumor necrosis factor superfamily member 13C).
Bcl-2–associated X protein. A pro-apoptotic protein.
B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2. A key anti-apoptotic protein.
B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2. Major anti-inflammatory protein bound
to non-liganded PPARδ and released upon ligand binding to PPARδ.
B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 10. A scaffold recruited by activated
CARD9/10/11 proteins which, in turn, recruits MALT1 which then
recruits TRAF2 or TRAF6 followed by release and translocation of NF-
BDKRB2
BH4
BIM
BiP
BLT-1
κB by the canonical pathway. Also, Bcl10 somehow mediates
phosphorylation and activation of NIK, thus activating the noncanonical NF-κB pathway as well.
bradykinin receptor B2
tetrahydrobiopterin. Required cofactor for eNOS. Also promotes
dimerization of eNOS resulting in greater activity.
Bcl2-interacting mediator of cell death – a membrane-bound “death
ligand” inhibited by Bcl2.
immunoglobulin heavy chain-binding protein. Also known as HSPA5
(heat-shock 70-KD protein 5) and GRP78 (glucose-regulated protein
78). This is a key chaperone which is sensed as part of the unfolded
protein response.
B leukotriene 1 receptor (there is also BLT-2). Both are main receptors
for LTB4.
BMP-2 / 4
bone morphogenic protein2 or 4
CalDAG-GEF1
calcium- and DAG-regulated GEF1
BMX
CaMKII
CaMKKα
CAPRI
CARD9
CARP1/2
CARMA1
bone marrow tyrosine kinase on chromosome X. Also known as Etk
(endothelial/epithelial tyrosine kinase).
calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II
CaMK kinase (α and β). These phosphorylate CaMKI and –IV in their
activation loops. CaMKK also requires CaM. It has other substrates
including AMPK and PKB.
calcium-promoted Ras inactivator
caspase-recruitment domain-containing adaptor protein 9. CARD10
corresponds to CARMA3 and CARD11 to CARMA1. CARD9, however,
lacks the Maguk domain of the CARMA adaptors.
caspase 8 and 10 associated RING protein 1 or 2. Also known as
RIFIFYLIN/SAKURA.
caspase recruitment domain-containing (CARD) and Maguk domaincontaining protein 1. Also known as CARD11. First element of the
CARD1-BCL10-MALT1 (CBM) complex. Note, CARMA1 is expressed in
CAS
Caspase
Cav-1
CBM
phagocytes while CARMA3 is found in non-phagocytic cells such as
endothelial cells but also macrophages. CARMA3 is also known as
CARD10.
Crk-associated substrate Also known as p130Cas.
cysteinyl, aspartyl-directed protease
caveolin-1
CARMA1-BCL10-MALT1 complex
Cbl-b
Casitas B-lineage lymphoma sequence B.
CBS
cystathionine β-synthase
CBP
CCL2
CCND1
CCR2
CREB-binding protein, a histone acetyltransferase. Also known as
p300 homolog. A closely related protein, p300 is typically grouped
with CBP in the literature written as CBP/p300.
chemokine, CC motif, ligand 2 (also known as MCP-1)
cyclin D1
chemokine, CC motif, receptor 2
Cdc42
cell division cycle 42 (a Rho family GTPase)
CD40L
CD40 ligand where “CD” refers to “cluster of differentiation”
CD14
CDK
CDKN2A
CEH
CETP
cluster of differentiation 14
cyclin-dependent kinase. There are several mammalian CDK proteins.
When bound to various cyclins (whose levels and activation wax and
wane during specific phases of the cell cycle, controlled by yet other
factors) the cyclin-CDK dimer becomes a MPF (mitosis promoting
factor) which phosphorylates multiple key enzymes or signaling
proteins involved in the various aspects of cell replication.
cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A. Encodes INK4a (p16INK4a)
(inhibitor of kinase 4a) and ARF (alternate reading frame)
neutral cholesterol ester hydrolase
cholesterol-ester transport protein
Cezanne
cFLIP
c-fos
CHOP
cIAP1
Cip1
c-Jun
CKD1/2
ClC-3
CNK1
cellular zinc-finger anti-NF-κB enzyme. This is an A20-like
deubiquitinating enzyme.
cellular FLICE inhibitory protein. cFLIP binds to and inhibits caspase
8. FLICE (FADD-like interleukin-1 beta-convertin enzyme) is another
name for caspase 8.
FBJ (Finkel-Biskis-Jinkins) osteosarcoma oncogene. The “c” refers to
cellular as opposed to “v” for viral.
C/EBP homologous protein. A key mediator of ER stress.
cellular inhibitor of apoptosis protein 1. Also known as BIRC2
(baculoviral IAP repeat containing protein 2). cIAP2 is also known as
BIRC3.
p21Cip1 (cyclin-dependent kinase interacting protein). It is encoded
by CDKN1A (cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 1A)
Abbreviated from Japanese, ju-nana, the number 17. Derived from the
ASV 17 provirus. Also referred to as simply Jun.
polycystic kidney disease 1 and 2. Also known as polycystin 1 and 2
as well as TRPP1/2 (transient receptor potential, second P for PKD).
chloride channel 3.
connector enhancer of ksr. An adapter which links GCPR with Gα12/13
to simultaneous Rho activation and direct activation of the JNK cascade.
COX-2
cyclooxygenase-2
CREB
cAMP response element binding protein
CRE
Crk
CRP
CSF1R
Csk
cAMP response element
chicken tumor virus regulator kinase. The name is a misnomer as Crk
is not a kinase but an adapter in integrin signaling.
C-reactive protein
colony stimulating factor 1 receptor. Also known as FMS. Receptor
for M-CSF.
C-terminal Src kinase.
CT
cytidine triphosphate: phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase
CTLA4
cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4. CTLA4 is a coinhibitory receptor
molecule on Treg cells that binds B7-1/2 on APC and Th1 cells and
inhibits them.
CTH
CYLD
Cx43
DAF
DAG
Dbl
DIP1
Dock2
Dock180
DUOX
cystathionine γ-lyase or cystathionase
cylindromatosis, a ubiquitinase or ubiquitin chain editing enzyme that
deactivates several key components of NF-κB signaling.
Connexin 43
decay accelerating factor. Degrades C3 and C5 convertases and is
present on endothelial and blood cells.
diacylglycerol
diffuse B-cell lymphoma. Also known asARHGEF21 with official gene
name MCF2 (MCF.2 cell line-derived transforming sequence). Dbl is the
prototypical RhoGEF and many of in the RhoGEF family (Tiam-1, Vav,
Dbs, Sos, RasGEF, others) have a DH (Dbl homology) catalytic domain.
Dia-interacting protein 1
dedicator of cytokinesis 2
dedicator of cytokinesis 180. Also known as Dock1. Abbreviation can
also mean “downstream of Crk-binding protein”.
ECM
extracellular matrix
EDHF
endothelial derived hyperpolarizing factor
ECSIT
EGFR
Egr1
eIF2α
evolutionarily conserved signaling intermediate in toll pathways
epidermal growth factor receptor. Also known as HER1 (human EGF
receptor 1) or ErbB1 (erythroblastoma B1). There are 4 HER
receptors HER1-4.
early growth response 1. A transcription factor activated by JNK or
ERK1/2.
eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α
ELMO1
engulfment and cell motility gene 1
Elovl6
elongation of very long-chain fatty acids family member 6
EP2
prostaglandin E2 receptor
eNOS
EPAC
ERAD
ERK
ERO1α
ET-1
Fab
endothelial nitric oxide synthase
exchange protein directly activated by cAMP. Several isoforms can act
as GEFs activating Rap
endoplasmic reticulum–associated degradation
extracellular signal-regulated kinase
endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductin 1α, the major mediator of
disulfide bond formation in the process of protein folding in the ER
(together protein disulfide isomerase).
endothelin-1
fragment, antigen binding. After papain digestion, 2 Fab regions are
released from IgG. Each Fab region consists of a heavy chain variable
and first constant region associated with a light chain.
FADD
Fas-associated death domain
Fas
fragment, apoptosis stimulating. Fas is actually a cell receptor.
FAK
FasL
Fc
FGFR2
FilGAP
Fms
Foxp3
focal adhesion kinase
Fas ligand
fragment, crystallizable. Papain digestion of IgG, IgA, or IgD results in
2 Fab and 1 Fc fragments. The Fab fragments correspond to antigen
binding regions while the Fc frament contains 2 identical heavy chain
fragments bound by disulfide bonds, each containing the second and
third constant domains of the antibody heavy chain. Fc antibody
domains bind Fc receptors and complement.
fibroblast growth factor receptor 2
filamin A-associated Rho GAP
friend murine leukemia virus integration site 2. Also known as CSF1R.
forkhead box protein 3
FRS2α
Fyn
G2A
Gab1
Gadd45β
GAG
GAP
GAPDH
Gas6
GCK
GDI
GEF
Git1
GM-CSF
gp91phox
GPCR
fibroblast growth factor receptor substrate 2α
Fgr/Yes related novel protein – a tyrosine kinase of the Src family
kinases (SFK). Fgr (feline Gardner-Rasheed sarcoma virus) and Yes
(Yamaguchi (Y73 virus) sarcoma oncogene) are also SFKs.
G2 accumulation. A GPCR so named because over-expression in
fibroblasts caused cell-cycle arest in the growth 2 (G2) phase of
mitosis.
Grb2-associated binder 1
growth arrest- and DNA damage-inducible gene β.
glycosaminoglycan
GTPase activating protein (inactivates Ras family GTPases by converting
GTP to GDP thereby inactivating)
glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase
growth arrest specific gene 6 – recognizes phosphatidyl serine and
engages Mertk to promote efferocytosis.
germinal center kinase. Also known as MAP4K2.
G-nucleotide dissociation inhibitor. GDI proteins inhibit dissociation of
GDP from Rho family proteins and sterically cover the geranyl-geranyl
anchor, thereby preventing membrane association and holding them
inactive in the cytoplasm.
guanosine exchange factor. GEFs facilitates exchange of GTP for GDP to
activate or “turn on” Ras family proteins (small GTPases). GAPs
inactivate or “turn off” Ras family proteins.
G-protein-coupled receptor kinase-interacting protein 1. Git1 forms a
complex with βPIX and PAK in integrin signaling.
granulocyte-monocyte colony stimulating factor.
glycoprotein91–phagocyte oxidase. The major catalytic subunit of
NADPH oxidase 2. NOX2 is now used to refer to gp91phox while
homologues are NOX1/3/4/5.
G-protein-coupled receptor
GPIHBP1
glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored high-density lipoprotein–
binding protein 1. GPIHBP1 binds LPL on the endothelial surface.
GPX1
glutathione peroxidase 1
GRK2
G-protein coupled receptor kinase-2
Grb2
GROα
GRP78
GRX-1
GSH
GSK3β
GSSG
GSTπ
GTP
growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (acts as an adaptor protein
between receptors and Sos).
growth-regulated oncogene α. Also known as CXCL1.
glucose-regulated protein 78. Also known as HSPA5 or BiP
(immunoglobulin heavy chain-binding protein)
glutaredoxin-1. Also known as GLRX. A member of the thioredoxin
family
glutathione (the –SH refers to reduced sulfur on cysteine)
glycogen synthase kinase 3 β.
glutathione-glutathione disulfide (oxidized glutathione)
glutathione-S-transferase π. Also known as GSTP1 (and GSTP2 in
mouse, or GST3). There are 8-9 classes of GSTs.
guanosine triphosphate
GTPCH
GTP cyclohydrolase I. The rate-limiting enzyme for BH4 synthesis.
H2O2
hydrogen peroxide
GWAS
HB-EGF
genome-wide association stud(y)ies
heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor
HCII
heparin cofactor II
HDL
high density lipoprotein(s)
HDAC3
HER1-4
histone deacetylase 3
human EGF receptor 1-4. Also known as EGFR (for HER1) and ErbB14 (erythroblastoma B1)
Hes
hairy and enhancer of split. Hes1 is induced by NOTCH signaling and
acts as a feedback repressor of IL-6 and IL-12.
HETE
hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid
HIPK1
homeodomain-interacting protein kinase 1. This serine/threonine
kinase is often activated in breast cancer cells and appears to be an
oncogene by phosphorylating p53. It also can help activate ASK1.
Hey
HMGB1
hairy and enhancer of split with YRPW motif. Hes and Hey are
families of basic helix-loop-helix transcriptional repressors.
high-mobility group box 1
HMOX1
heme oxygenase 1
HNF1
hepatocyte nuclear factor 1
4-HNE
4-hydroxy-2-nonenal
HO-1
heme oxygenase 1
HSF1
heat shock transcription factor 1
HOCl
HSP
ICOS
Id3
hypochlorous acid
heat shock protein. HSP70 aids in folding of nascent proteins. HSP90
promotes eNOS activity. HSP60 may be expressed in endothelial
stress or activation and promote autoimmunity.
inducible costimulator
inhibitor of DNA binding 3 or inhibitor of differentiation 3.
IFNγ
interferon-γ
IKK
IκB kinase. A trimer of IKK1 (IKKα), IKK2 (IKKβ), and IKK3 (NEMO or
IKKγ). Only IKK1 and IKK2 have kinase activity.
IκBα
IL
ILK-1
ILKAP
inhibitor of NF-κB or inhibitor-κBα (from gene NFKBIA)
interleukin
integrin-linked kinase 1
ILK-associated protein
INK4a
inhibitor of kinase 4a. Also known asp16INK4a.
IRAK1
interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase-1
IP3
IRE1
IRF3
IRS2
ITAM
JAK
JAM-A
JNK
Keap1
Kip1
Kit
KLF2
KLRK1
LARG
inositol 1,4,5 tri-phosphate (soluble cytosolic intracellular messenger
released after action of PLC).
inositol-requiring enzyme 1. Also known as ERN1 (endoplasmic
reticulum-to-nucleus signaling 1). One of the key sensors of ER stress.
interferon regulatory factor 3
insulin receptor substrate 2 (there are 1-4)
immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif. Present in leukocytes
and include T- and B-cell receptors (TCR, BCR), and IgG receptors
(FcγRs).
Janus kinase (part of JAK-STAT pathway)
junctional adhesion molecule A
c-Jun N-terminal kinase (a MAPK). Also interpreted as “just another
kinase”.
Kelch-like erythroid-derived cap-n-collar-homology-associated
protein 1
CDK interacting protein 1. Also called p27Kip1. It is encoded by
CDKN1b
Kit is a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor for stem cell factor
(SCF), a growth factor required for mast cell differentiation. The
name seems not to be an abbreviation and its naming is unexplained.
Kruppel-like factor 2
killer cell lectin-like receptor, subfamily K, member 1 (same gene as
NKG2D)
leukemia-associated Rho GEF. Also known as ARHGEF12.
LBP
LPS binding protein
LFA-1
leukocyte function-associated antigen-1 (αLβ2 integrin)
LC8
dynein light chain 8
LDL
low density lipoprotein(s)
LIAS
Lipoic acid synthase
LDLR
LIM
LIMK
LOX-1
LPL
LDL receptor
lin-11 isl-1 mec-3. The terms lin (for cell lineage), isl, and mec are
genes in Caenorhabditis elegans which have homologous domains.
LIM domain kinase
lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor 1. Coded by the OLR1 gene (oxidized
LDL receptor 1)
lipoprotein lipase
LpPLA2
lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A 2. Same as PAF-AH.
LRP1
LDL receptor-related protein 1
LPS
LTα
LUBAC
LYPLA3
LTB4
MAD
MADD
MALT1
MAPK
MAPKK
lipopolysaccharide (a bacterial product that binds TLR4)
lymphotoxin α. Also called TNFβ in older literature.
linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex. LUBAC consists of HOIL-1
(haem-oxidized iron-responsive element-binding protein 2 ubiquitin
ligase-1) and HOIP (HOIL-1 interacting protein). HOIL-1 is an E3
ubiquitin ligase that uniquely promotes head to tail (carboxy terminus
to amino terminus) assembly of ubiquitin.
lysophospholipase 3. Also known as LLPL (LCAT-like
lysophospholipase)
leukotriene B4
mothers against decapentaplegic
MAPK-activating, death domain-containing protein. A splice variant
of the gene IG20. An adaptor required for ERK1/2 activation by TNFα
through the pathway TNFR1 – MADD – Grb2/Sos – Ras – Raf1 –
MEK1/2 – ERK1/2.
mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue I
mitogen-activated protein kinase
MAPK kinase, also called a MEK (MAPK/ERK kinase)
MAPKKK
MAPKK kinase or MEKK (MEK kinase)
MCP-1
monocyte chemoattractant protein 1
MARCO
M-CSF
MD2
macrophage receptor with collagenous structure
monocyte colony stimulating factor. Also known as CSF-1.
Origin of abbreviation obscure. Also referred to as lympocyte antigen
LY96. Structural homology to mite allergen Der p 2.
mDia1
microtubule-organizing formin diaphanous 1
MEF2C
myocyte enhancer factor 2C
MDM2
MEK
MEKK
Mertk
Mfge8
MIF
MIP-1α
MIP-1β
MK2
MKK
MKP-1
MLCK
MLK
mmLDL
MMP
mouse double minute 2 homologue
MAPK/ERK kinase = MAPKK = MAP2K
MEK kinase = MAP3K
Mer receptor tyrosine kinase
milk fat globule-EGF factor 8. Also known as lactadherin. Mfge8
promotes phagocytosis of apoptotic thymocytes by binding
phosphatidylserine on apoptotic cells and linking to the αVβ3 integrin
on phagocytes.
macrophage migration inhibitory factor
macrophage inflammatory protein-1α. Also known as CCL3.
macrophage inflammatory protein-1β. Also known as CCL4.
MAPK-activated protein kinase 2. Also abbreviated MAPKAPK2.
MAP kinase kinase = MAP2K
MAPK phosphatase 1
myosin light chain kinase
mixed lineage kinase (isoforms 1-3). Also known as MAP3K9-11.
Appear to be activated by GCKs.
minimally modified LDL
matrix metalloproteinase
MSK1
MSR
MTAP
MyD88
mitogen- and stress-activated protein kinase 1 (a kinase activated by
MAP kinases such as p38)
macrophage scavenger receptor (name of the gene that gives rise to
both SR-AI and SR-AII through alternate splicing).
methylthioadenosine phosphorylase. The gene locus encodes the
enzyme, S-methyl-5’-thioadenosine phosphorylase, that processes the
polyamine biosynthesis byproduct in the methionine salvage
pathway.
myeloid differentiation primary-response protein-88
NADPH
nicotine adenine dinucleotide phosphate (H = reduced form)
Nck1
novel cytoplasmic kinase 1. Also interpreted as “non-catalytic region
of tyrosine kinase adaptor protein”. A separate gene codes Nck2.
Both Nck1 and 2 are adaptor proteins, containing only 1 SH2 and 3
SH3 domains. They link phosphorylated receptor tyrosine kinases or
integrins with a number of downstream signaling pathways. The
original paper does not specify the meaning of the abbreviation,
calling Nck a “novel cytoplasmic protein”, with some conjecture that it
might be a kinase.
NAP1
NEMO
NF-κB activating kinase-associated protein 1. An adapter than binds
IKKε or TBK1.
NF-κB essential modulator (part of the IKK complex). Also known as
IKK3 or IKKγ.
NFAT
nuclear factor of activated T-cells
NIK
NF-κB -inducing kinase. Also known as MAP3K14.
NF-κB
NK cells
NKG2D
NLRP3
nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells
natural killer cells
NK cell lectin-like receptor subfamily K
nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat containing family, pyrin
domain containing 3. NLR may also be considered an abbreviation for
NOD-like receptors which includes NLRP3. Also known as NALP3
(Nacht domain-, leucine-rich repeat-, and PYD-containing protein 3) and
CIAS1 (cold-induced autoinflammatory syndrome 1).
NOD
Notch
Noxa
NPR1
Nrf2
nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain. Also refers to a series of
receptors (NOD-like receptors), NOD1-5.
Not an abbreviation but refers to a mutation resulting in a notch in
Drosophila wings. NOTCH receptors are single transmembrane
receptors that bind cell-bound ligands. There are 4 human Notch
receptors, NOTCH1-4 with ligands including JAG1, 2 (Jagged 1 and 2)
and DLL1, 3, 4 (Delta-like 1, 3, and 4).
A latin term meaning “injury” or “damage”. A pro-apoptotic protein
induced by p53 especially when combined with IRF-1 and by FOXO3.
Also known as PMAIP1 (PHORBOL-12-MYRISTATE-13-ACETATEINDUCED PROTEIN 1).
natriuretic peptide receptor 1. Also known as natriuretic peptide
receptor A (NPRA).
nuclear factor erythroid 2-like related factor 2
NO
nitric oxide
Ntn1
netrin-1. From the Sanskirt word "netr" which means "one who guides."
NOX2
NADPH oxidase 2. NOX2 generally refers to the gp91phox (catalytic)
subunit. NOX2 is the prototypical phagocyte NOX. NOX2 is expressed in
endothelial cells but much higher levels are found in macrophages.
There are 5 isoforms or homologues, NOX1-5.
·O2¯
superoxide anion
·OH
hydroxyl radical
ONOO·¯
peroxynitrite radical
Oct1
OLR1
oxLDL
p62
PAF
PAF-AH
octamer binding transcription factor 1
oxidized LDL receptor 1 gene. Also known as LOX-1.
oxidized LDL (generally considered rather severely oxidized)
also known as SQSTM1 (sequestosome 1), a scaffold that binds
MEKK3 and PKCζ as well as being involved in autophagy.
platelet activating factor
platelet activating factor acyl hydrolase. Also known as LpPLA2.
PAK
p21-activated kinase. There are 6 isoforms known, PAK1-6.
PAMP
pathogen-associated molecular pattern(s)
PAR1
protease activated receptor 1 (the receptor activated by thrombin)
PAPP-A
Par6
PARG
pregnancy-associated plasma protein A is a metalloproteinase in the
IGF system that functions to release IGF-1 locally in lesions and
promote VSCM proliferation.
partitioning defective protein 6 (involved in cell polarization with
Cdc42)
poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase
PARP-1
poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1
PDGF
platelet-derived growth factor
PCAF
PDK1
PD-L1
PDZK1
PECAM-1
PGI2
PH
PI3K
PI3P
p300/CBP associated factor
PIP3-dependent kinase 1. Also known as PDPK1 (PIP3 dependent
protein kinase 1 – the formally accepted abbreviation). Also active
when bound to DAG. Not to be confused with pyruvate
dehydrogenase kinase, isozyme 1 – also abbreviated PDK1 (accepted
abbreviation).
programmed death ligand 1
PDZ domain-containing protein 1. PDZ domains frequently involve
organization of receptors, ion channels, or signaling molecules at the
inner cell membrane. PDZ stands for the original recognition of
shared structure in 3 proteins, PSD-95, DlgA, and ZO-1.
platelet and endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1
prostacyclin
pleckstrin homology (a domain found in many proteins mediating
binding to PIP3)
phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase
phosphatidyl inositol 3 phosphate. This is the product of type III PI3K
and promotes autophagy.
PIASy
Pim1
PINCH
PIP3
βPIX
PKA
PKB
PKC
PKD1
PKD2
PKG
PKL
PLA2
PLC
PLD
PLTP
PPAR
protein inhibitor of activated STATy. STAT Y is also known as STAT4,
hence PIASy is also known as PIAS4, its preferred designation.
proviral integration site MuLV (murine leukemia virus)
particularly interesting cys-his rich protein (binds to ILK and Nck2)
phosphatidyl inositol 3,4,5 phosphate (membrane bound). This is the
product of type 1 PI3Ks and promotes activation of PKB/Akt which
inhibits autophagy.
PAK-interacting exchange factor β. Also known as Cool-1 and ARHGEF7.
cAMP-dependent protein kinase
protein kinase B (also known as Akt)
protein kinase C. There are several different isoforms: α, β, γ are
conventional and require calcium and DAG for activation; δ, ε, θ, η are
novel and require only DAG; λ, ζ are atypical and require neither. All
require phosphatidyl serine (in membranes) for activation as well.
polycystic kidney disease 1. Also known as polycystin 1. A mechanosensor associated with PKD2 in cilia.
polycystic kidney disease 2. Also known as polycystin 2. A calcium
channel opened by flow when associated with PKD1.
cGMP-dependent protein kinase. Also known as cGK (cGMP-dependent
kinase).
paxillin-kinase linker. Also known as GIT2.
phospholipase A2. Soluble, sPLA2, and lipoproteins-associated, LpPLA2, are commonly described as cardiovascular risk factors.
Cytosolic PLA2 is responsible for release of arachidonic acid from
phospholipids for eicosanoid synthesis.
phospholipase C. There are several different isoforms including β, δ, ε, γ
and ζ.
phospholipase D
phospholipid transfer protein
peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (there are α, γ, and δ forms)
PRDX1
peroxiredoxin 1
PTB
phosphotyrosine binding domain (very different structure compared
to SH2 domain which also binds phosphorylated tyrosines).
PSGL1
PTEN
Pyk2
Rac1
RACK1
Raf1
Rag-1
RAGE
P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1
phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten. The
name is also said to refer to a “Phosphatase-deleting mutation of
chromosome TEN”.
protein tyrosine kinase 2
Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1
receptor for activated C-kinase1. Also known as GNB2L1 (guanine
nucleotide-binding protein, beta-2-like 1)
rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma. Also referred to as “recombinant
activated factor” and murine leukemia viral oncogene homolog 1. A
MAP kinase kinase kinase (MAP3K) or MEK kinase. Typically
activated by Ras, but has multiple phosphorylation sites that can upor down-regulate activity. Inactivated when bound to the 14-3-3
regulatory protein.
recombinase activator gene 1
receptor for advanced glycation end-products (AGE)
Ral
Ras-like protein. Also RalA
RANTES
regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted. Also
known as CCL5.
RalGDS
Rap1
Ras
Ral-GDP dissociation stimulator
Ras-related protein 1
Named for a transforming oncogene found in rat sarcoma. The Ras
superfamily are monomeric GTPases that act as off-on switches (off
when GDP is bound, on when GTP is bound). Memebers of the family
include Ras, Rho/Rac, Rab, Rap, Arf, Ral, Ran, Rheb, Rad Rit, and Miro.
Over a hundred members are known. Ras superfamily proteins have
geranyl-geranyl lipid anchors for attaching to the inner cell
membrane.
RasGAP
Ras GTPase activating protein
RBP-J
recombinant-recognition-sequence-binding protein at the Jκ site. Also
named CSL or CBF1. A DNA-binding transcription factor which is the
target of NOTCH signaling (by binding the NICD).
RasGRP1
Rel
RFK
Rheb
Rho
RIAM
RING
RIP1
RKIP
ROCK
RSK1
RyR
Ras guanyl nucleotide-releasing protein 1, a RasGEF. Also known as a
CalDAG-GEF (a calcium and DAG activated GEF).
avian reticuloendotheliosis viral oncogen homolog. REL gene encodes
c-Rel, RELA and RELB genes encode RelA and RelB. Any Rel protein
can be one subunit of the dimer pair in NF-κB.
riboflavin kinase. A necessary component of several NOX complexes.
Ras homolog enriched in brain.
Ras homologous. One of the members of the Ras superfamily of
GTPases. RhoA, Cdc42, Rac1 are common Rho family members.
Rap1-interacting adapter molecule
really interesting new gene – also referred to as a RING finger or zinc
RING finger domain. A protein domain that acts as a protein binding
site which is shared by a family of E3 ubiquitin ligases.
receptor-interacting protein 1. Also known as RIPK1 (receptorinteracting serine/threonine kinase 1).
Raf kinase inhibitory protein
Rho-associated, coiled-coil containing protein kinase. Also referred to
frequently as simply Rho kinase.
ribosomal S6 kinase 1. Also known as RPS6KA1 (ribosomal protein S6
kinase, 90-kd, 1) or p90RSK or simply S6K1. RSK1 is a target of
ERK1/2. RSK1 can phosphorylate Bad at Ser112, thereby inhibiting
apoptosis. Phosphorylation of CREB at Ser133 by RSK1 also has an
anti-apoptotic action. Phosphorylation of IκBβ, with its subsequent
K48 ubiquitination and degradation, leads to delayed, persistent NFκB activation.
ryanodine receptor
S6
S1P
S6K1
SCF-βTrCP
SDF1
SENP1
ribosomal protein 6S (also known as RPS6), a main target of
ribosomal protein kinases
sphingosine-1-phosphate. Receptors are S1P1 through 5 (also known
as S1PR1-5 and “endothelial differentiation gene” or EDG receptors)
S6 kinase 1. Also known as p70S6K1 or RPS6KB1 (ribosomal protein
S6 kinase, 70-kd, 1). Not to be confused with RSK1.
S-phase kinase-associated protein (Skp)1, Cullin1, F-box protein
complex – β-transducin repeat-containing protein. SCF-βTrCP is an
E3 ubiquitin ligase involved in marking IκB with K48 ubiquitin chains
for degradation by the 26S proteosome.
stromal cell-derived factor 1. Also known as CXCL12.
sentrin-specific protease family, member 1. Capable of
desumoylation.
SERCA
sarcoendoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase
SH3
Src-homology domain 3 (binds certain proline-rich sequences)
SH2
Shc
SHP
SHIP2
SHP2
Src-homology domain 2 (a conserved protein domain that recognizes
phosphorylated tyrosines)
Src homology collagen-like. Isoforms p46 and p52 are adaptor
proteins whose SH2 domains bind phosphorylated tyrosine on the
cytosolic domain of RTKs (receptor tyrosine kinases) and also bind
Grb2. The p66Shc isoform is a major mediator of mitochondrial
superoxide production.
small heterodimer partner
Src-homology-2 domain-containing inositol phosphatase-2
SH2 (Src-homology-2) domain-containing tyrosine phosphatase
SINTBAD
similar to NAP1 TBK1 adapter
SMAC
second mitochondria-derived activator of caspase. Also known as
DIABLO (direct IAP-binding protein with low pI).
SIRT1
Silent mating type information regulation 2 (Sir2) homolog 1
SMAD
SMC
SMRT
SMS2
SOCS
SOD
SODD
SOK1
Sos
Src
SR-A
The SMAD proteins are homologs of both the Drosophila protein
"mothers against decapentaplegic" (MAD) and the C. elegans protein
SMA. The name is a combination of the two.
smooth muscle cells
silencing mediator for retinoid and thyroid hormone receptors. A
corepressor.
Sphingomyelin synthase 2
suppressors of cytokine signaling
superoxide dismutase. Cu/Zn SOD is copper/zinc superoxide
dismutase – in cytoplasm; MnSod is manganese-SOD – in
mitochondria, EC-SOD is extracellular SOD.
silencer of death domain
Sterile 20/oxidant stress response kinase 1. Also known as STK25
(serine/threonin kinase 25). SOK1 is a member of the mammalian
sterile 20 family (Mst), Ste standing for sterile.
Son of sevenless. May be referred to as mSos (mammalian Sos). A
GEF for Ras family proteins. Binds to the adapter Grb2.
Pronounced "sarc" (short for sarcoma), the first identified of a family
of proto-oncogenic tyrosine kinases.
scavenger receptor A (implies both AI and AII – alternate splice
isoforms of the same MSR gene)
SR-B1
scavenger receptor B1 (an HDL receptor)
SR-PSOX
scavenger receptor – phosphatidyl serine and oxidized lipoprotein
SREC
STAT1
SUMO
Syk
TAB1/2
TACE
scavenger receptor expressed by endothelial cells
signal transducer and activator of transcription 1
small ubiquitin-like modifier
spleen tyrosine kinase
TAK1-binding protein-1 and 2
TNFα converting enzyme. Also known as ADAM17.
TAK1
TGF-β -activated kinase-1. Also known as MAP3K7.
T-bet
T-box expressed in T-cells. Also known as TXB21 (T-box 21)
TANK
tBHQ
TBK1
TG2
TRAF family member-associated NF-κB activator
tert-butyl hydroquinone
TANK-binding kinase 1
transglutaminase 2, a cross-linking gene that promotes efferocytosis
TGRL
triglyceride-rich lipoproteins
TF
tissue factor
TIRAP
TFPI
Tg737
TGF-β
TGRL
Th1
Tiam1
Tie2
TIMP2
TLR4
TM
TNFα
TNFR1
toll/IL1R domain-containing adaptor protein. Also known as MAL
(MyD88 adaptor-like).
tissue factor pathway inhibitor
Encodes the cilium-associated protein “polaris”.
transforming growth factor β
triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (includes chylomicrons, VLDL, and
remnants)
T-helper type 1 lymphocytes
T-lymphoma invasion and metastasis 1
tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin and EGF factor homology
domains 2. This is the most widely expressed angiopoietin receptor.
Tie1 is upregulated in areas of disturbed flow.
tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2
toll-like receptor 4
thrombomodulin
tumor necrosis factor α
tumor necrosis factor receptor 1. Also known as the p55 or p60
TNFR.
TNFR2
TNFRSF4
tumor necrosis factor receptor 2. Also known as the p75 or p80
TNFR.
tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily 4. Also known as OX40
Tollip
toll-interacting protein
TRADD
tumor necrosis factor receptor 1-associated death domain protein
tPA
TRAF2
TRAF6
TRAIL
TRAM
TRAP
TRIF
TRP14
TRPC1
TRPV4
TRUSS
Trx
TSC1
TUNEL
TXNIP
UbC13
UEV1A
uPA
tissue-type plasminogen activator
TNF receptor-associated factor 2 (there are TRAF1-6)
TNF receptor-associated factor 6 (there are 1-6)
tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis inducing ligand
TRIF-related adaptor molecule
tumor necrosis factor receptor associated protein
toll/IL-1 receptor domain-containing adaptor inducing interferon-β
thioredoxin-related protein 14, a disulfide reductase
transient receptor potential canonical 1
transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (a calcium channel activated
by multiple signals including shear stress).
TNF receptor ubiquitous scaffolding and signaling protein. The gene
name is TRPC4AP ().
thioredoxin
tuberous sclerosis 1. The TSC1/2 complex forms a GAP which inhibits
Rheb in mTOR signaling.
Terminal deoxy-ribonucleotide transferase (TdT)–mediated dUTP
nick-end labeling. A marker for apoptosis.
thioredoxin-interacting protein
ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme-13
ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2-variant-1
urokinase-type plasminogen activator
USP21
ubiquitin-specific peptidase 21
Vav1-3
Named for vav, the 6th letter in the Hebrew alphabet (for the 6th
oncogene discovered at the laboratory that characterized the protein).
The Vav proteins are GEFs for Rac.
VASP
VCAM-1
VE-cadherin
VEGFR2
VLA-4
vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (with functions analagous to
WASp)
vascular cell adhesion molecule-1
vascular endothelial cadherin
vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2. Also known as Flk-1
(fetal liver kinase 1) or KDR (kinase insert domain receptor)
very late antigen 4 (α4β1 integrin)
VLDL
very-low density lipoprotein(s)
WASp
Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome protein
vWF
von Willebrand factor
WAVE
WASp-family verprolin homology domain containing protein
Yes
Yamaguchi (Y73 virus), Esh avian sarcoma oncogene. Yes is a SFK
(Src family kinase) tyrosine kinase. It was originally named yas
(Yoshida M, et al. Nature 1980; 287:653), with a later suggestion to
name it yes (Doffin JM, et al. J Virol 1981 40:953).
Wnt
XBP1
XIAP
ZO-1
The name Wnt comes from a portmanteau of Int and Wg (wingless) in
Drosophila. Int1 (integration 1) in the breast tumors of mice infected
with mouse mammary tumor virus, in which Int was identified as a
vertebrate gene near several integration sites of MMTV.
X-box binding protein 1
X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis
zona occludens 1