Class A basic helix-loop-helix protein 15

Class A basic helix-loop-helix protein 15 (bHLHa15) also known as class B basic helix-loop-helix protein 8 (bHLHb8) or muscle, intestine and stomach expression 1 (MIST-1) is a is_associated_with::protein that in humans is encoded by the BHLHA15 is_associated_with::gene.

Function
bHLHa15 is required developmentally for the proper organization of all protein secreting, serous is_associated_with::exocrine glands. In the absence of Mist1, exocrine tissue shows improper organization of is_associated_with::organelles, especially the localization of the is_associated_with::zymogen granules. The zymogen granules are the vesicles that store enzymes near the is_associated_with::plasma membrane for easy release when stimulated. This disorganization caused by the loss of Mist1 leads to increased susceptibility toward is_associated_with::pancreatic damage and potentially is_associated_with::pancreatic cancer.