IRE1 (Inositol-requiring enzyme 1)

IRE1 (Inositol-requiring enzyme 1) is a key protein inside cells that helps manage stress in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), a structure involved in protein production. When the ER becomes overwhelmed with misfolded or damaged proteins, IRE1 senses this stress and activates a response to restore balance. It does this by splicing specific RNA instructions, which then lead to increased production of proteins that help the cell cope and recover. Overall, IRE1 plays a critical role in maintaining cell health by managing how cells respond to protein-folding stress in the ER.