About SRP / Signal Recognition Particle:
Signal recognition particle SRP is a type of protein that has been studied for many years. SRP's are essential and have been found to play a role in cellular communication. There are two forms, which are SRP-A and SRP-B.
The difference between the two types of signal recognition particles is their way of generating ATP. For most animals, there is an ATP Hydrolysis mechanism. However, in humans and other primates, there is an ATP Charging mechanism as well.
SRP Function
The SRP has two different domains, one for mediating its interactions and another for communicating with other proteins inside and outside of the cell membrane.
SRP has a role in cells such as bacteria and eukaryotes. It can be found on the cell membrane of a gram-negative bacterium such as E. coli. SRP is also found in chloroplasts, mitochondria, the plasma membrane and other places on the cell surface.
SRP and Diseases
SRP has been found to be associated with many different diseases. They are not directly responsible for the cause of disease, but they play significant roles in its progression. For example, SRP has been found to be a factor that plays a role in Huntington's disease as well as Alzheimer's Disease.
These two diseases both have K-Ras mutations that show signs of uncontrolled cell division. SRP has also been found to be associated with AIDS and other immune system defects since it plays a part in controlling the proteins that aid cell division and differentiation. It also plays a significant role in the formation of new membranes.