TMEM120A

Multifunctional protein involved in mechanosensation, and plays an essential role in lipid metabolism and adipocyte differentiation. May function as a potential ion channel involved in sensing mechanical stimuli. Mediates the mechanosensitivity of the PKD2-TMEM120A channel complex through direct physical interaction. TMEM120A seems to affect mechanosensation by inhibiting PIEZO2 channels, possibly by altering cellular lipid content (By similarity). TMEM120A is structurally similar to a lipid-modifying enzyme, ELOVL7, and contains a bound coenzyme A molecule, which suggests it might function as an enzyme in lipid metabolism. Additionally, implicated in innate immune response against Zika virus. Acts as a key activator of the antiviral signaling involving STING1..

Function from UniProtKB (Q9BXJ8), read 2026-09-23. CC BY 4.0.