Translationally controlled tumour protein (TCTP) is a novel glucose-regulated protein that is important for survival of pancreatic beta cells (original) (raw)

Aims/hypothesis This study used proteomics and biochemical approaches to identify novel glucose-regulated proteins and to unveil their role in pancreatic beta cell function. Translationally controlled tumour protein (TCTP) was identified to be one such protein, and further investigations into its function and regulation were carried out. Methods Global protein profiling of beta cell homogenates following glucose stimulation was performed using twodimensional gel electrophoresis. Proteins were identified by mass spectroscopy analysis. Immunoblotting was used to investigate alterations in TCTP protein levels in response to glucose stimulation or cell stress induced by palmitate. To investigate the biological function of TCTP, immunolocalisation, gene knockdown and overexpression of Tctp (also known as Tpt1) were performed. Apoptosis was measured in Tctp knockdown or Tctp-overexpressing cells. Glucosestimulated insulin secretion was carried out in Tctp knockdown cells.