Function
Harmonin (Harm) or Usher syndrome protein is a scaffold PDZ-containing protein which integrates three Usher syndrome (USH) type proteins to USH1-protein network[1]. Harm and cadherin 23 form a complex by PDZ domain interactions[2].
Disease
A defect in harmonin which is expressed in the inner ear hair cells causes USH type 1C[3]. Defects in the formation of USH-protein complex are predicted to disrupt stereocilia bundles and cause deafness in USH1 patients.
Structural highlights
Harm R103 forms a salt bridge with D458 of Usher syndrome type 1G protein and S115 forms hydrogen bond with it. The mutation of D458V in the Usher syndrome type 1G protein causes deaf-blindness[4].