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Otof

Developmental stage

Expressed in the organ of Corti in the inner hair cells (IHCs), but not in the outer hair cells (OHCs) at 16 dpc. Expressed strongly in the IHCs and faintly in the OHCs at 18 dpc (at protein level).

Domain

The N-terminal first 124 residues can be classified as C2 domain, based on their 3D-structure. They are not sufficient for calcium ion or phospholipid binding (By similarity).

Function

Key calcium ion sensor involved in the Ca(2+)-triggered synaptic vesicle-plasma membrane fusion and in the control of neurotransmitter release at these output synapses. Interacts in a calcium-dependent manner to the presynaptic SNARE proteins at ribbon synapses of cochlear inner hair cells (IHCs) to trigger exocytosis of neurotransmitter. Also essential to synaptic exocytosis in immature outer hair cells (OHCs). May also play a role within the recycling of endosomes.

Sequence Similarities

Belongs to the ferlin family.

Tissue Specificity

Isoform 1 is expressed in cochlea and brain. Expressed in the cochlear and vestibular hair cells. Expressed in both inner and outer hair cells (IHCs and OHCs) and cochlear ganglions neurons at postnatal day 2 (P2) and 6 (P6). Expressed only in IHCs at postnatal day 60 (P60) (at protein level). Strongly expressed in brain and inner ear. In the inner ear, it is mainly expressed in the cochlear IHC and vestibular type I sensory hair cells. Weakly expressed in eye, heart, skeletal muscle, liver, kidney, lung and testis.

Cellular localization

Alternative names

Fer1l2, Otof, Otoferlin, Fer-1-like protein 2, Protein pachanga

swissprot:Q9ESF1