Tripartite Motif Containing Protein 9 (TRIM9)

TRIM9 is a member of the tripartite motif (TRIM) family. The TRIM motif includes three zinc-binding domains, a RING, a B-box type 1 and a B-box type 2, and a coiled-coil region. The protein localizes to cytoplasmic bodies. Its function has not been identified. Alternate splicing of this gene generates two transcript variants encoding different isoforms.The deduced 710-amino acid rat protein is 98% identical to TRIM9. Expression array analysis showed exclusive expression and wide distribution in fetal and adult human brain. Northern blot analysis revealed high expression of a 4.4-kb TRIM9 transcript in brain. Fluorescence microscopy demonstrated expression of TRIM9 in cytoplasmic speckles. Interaction mating analysis indicated that TRIM9 can form a homodimer.