InterPro domain: IPR045014

This entry includes human transmembrane protein 41A/B (TMEM41A/B) and related proteins. TMEM41B is involved in early stages of autophagosome biogenesis at the ER membrane probably via mobilization of neutral lipids from lipid droplets [ 1 ]. TMEM41B and its homologues from fish are involved in motor neuron development [ 2 ]. It is also a critical host factor required for infection by human coronaviruses SARS-CoV-2, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-NL63, and HCoV-229E, as well as all flaviviruses tested such as Zika virus and Yellow fever virus [ 3 , 4 ]. The function of TMEM41A is not clear.

1. TMEM41B is a novel regulator of autophagy and lipid mobilization. EMBO Rep 19, 133-148.e20
2. An SMN-dependent U12 splicing event essential for motor circuit function. Cell 151
3. Genome-Scale Identification of SARS-CoV-2 and Pan-coronavirus Host Factor Networks. Cell 184, 120-132.e14
4. TMEM41B Is a Pan-flavivirus Host Factor. Cell 184, 440-54