ER Degradation Enhancer, Mannosidase Alpha Like Protein 3 (EDEM3)

Quality control in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) ensures that only properly folded proteins are retained in the cell through recognition and degradation of misfolded or unassembled proteins. EDEM3 belongs to a group of proteins that accelerate degradation of misfolded glycoproteins in the ER.

Mouse Edem3 has the signature motifs of class I alpha-mannosidases in its N-terminal domain, a protease-associated motif in its C-terminal region, and several N-glycosylation sites. Northern blot analysis detected Edem3 expression in all mouse tissues examined, with highest levels in liver, heart, and kidney. Immunofluorescence localization showed Edem3 colocalized with ER resident proteins.