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SUMO and transcriptional regulation
David W H Girdwood1, Michael H Tatham, Ronald T Hay
1Centre for Biomolecular Sciences, School of Biology, University of St. Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK.
Seminars in Cell & Developmental Biology
|June 24, 2004
Summary
Small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) attachment to proteins alters their function. SUMOylation of transcription factors often represses transcription, influencing gene expression through various mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
Background:
- Small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) proteins are covalently attached to lysine residues on target proteins.
- SUMOylation significantly alters the biochemical properties and functions of modified proteins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of SUMO modification in the process of transcriptional regulation.
- To understand how SUMOylation impacts gene expression by modifying transcriptional machinery components.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of SUMOylation effects on transcriptional regulators.
- Review of proposed mechanisms for SUMO-mediated transcriptional changes.
Main Results:
- SUMOylation of transcriptional apparatus components can lead to both activation and repression of transcription.
- In a majority of cases, SUMOylation of transcription factors results in transcriptional repression.
Conclusions:
- SUMOylation is a key post-translational modification influencing transcriptional regulation.
- Mechanisms for SUMO-mediated repression include nuclear body retention and histone deacetylase recruitment.