Tmed6, short for Transmembrane emp24 protein transport domain 6, belongs to the EMP24_GP25L superfamily and is involved in protein trafficking and secretion [2]. It is selectively expressed in pancreatic islets, with higher levels in α cells than β cells, and may play a role in islet biology, especially in hormone production or secretion, and its dysregulation may be linked to diabetes development [2]. In insects like the silkworm, it is expressed in all stages and tissues, and in the silkworm, BmTmed6 is associated with female reproduction, potentially through the dopamine signaling pathway [3,5].

Knockdown of Tmed6 gene expression in Min6 β cells decreased insulin secretion, indicating its role in insulin secretion [2]. In TFE3 translocation renal cell carcinoma, the TMED6-COG8 chimera is significantly increased compared to clear cell and papillary RCCs, suggesting it could be a novel diagnostic marker [1,4]. In silkworms, reducing BmTmed6 expression decreased the number of eggs laid by female moths [5].

In summary, Tmed6 has diverse functions in different organisms. In mammals, it is important for pancreatic islet function and may be related to diabetes. In insects, it affects female reproduction. The findings from knockdown and expression studies in these models have enhanced our understanding of Tmed6's role in specific biological processes and disease-related conditions.