TAPBP (Gene)

This gene encodes a transmembrane glycoprotein which mediates interaction between newly assembled major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules and the transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP), which is required for the transport of antigenic peptides across the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. This interaction is essential for optimal peptide loading on the MHC class I molecule. Up to four complexes of MHC class I and this protein may be bound to a single TAP molecule. This protein contains a C-terminal double-lysine motif (KKKAE) known to maintain membrane proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum. This gene lies within the major histocompatibility complex on chromosome 6. Alternative splicing results in three transcript variants encoding different isoforms. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]