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Does isoform diversity explain functional differences in the 14-3-3 protein family?
E Kjarland1, T J Keen, R Kleppe
1Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Jonas Lies vei 91, 5009 Bergen, Norway. endre.kjarland@biomed.uib.no
Abstract:
The 14-3-3 family of proteins was originally identified in 1967 as simply an abundant brain protein. However it took almost 25 years before the ubiquitous role of 14-3-3 in cell biology was recognized when it was found to interact with several signalling and proto-oncogene proteins. Subsequently 14-3-3 proteins were the first protein recognized to bind a discrete phosphoserine/threonine-binding motifs. In mammals the 14-3-3 protein family is comprised of seven homologous isoforms. The 14-3-3 family members are expressed in all eukaryotes and although no single conserved function of the 14-3-3s is apparent, their ability to bind other proteins seems a crucial characteristic. To date more than 300 binding partners have been identified, of which most are phosphoproteins. Consequently, it has become clear that 14-3-3 proteins are involved in the regulation of most cellular processes, including several metabolic pathways, redox-regulation, transcription, RNA processing, protein synthesis, protein folding and degradation, cell cycle, cytoskeletal organization and cellular trafficking. In this review we include recent reports on the regulation of 14-3-3 by phosphorylation, and discuss the possible functional significance of the existence of distinct 14-3-3 isoforms in light of recent proteomics studies. In addition we discuss 14-3-3 interaction as a possible drug target.
Insights
The 14-3-3 proteins, crucial for cell biology, bind over 300 phosphoproteins, regulating diverse cellular processes. Their distinct isoforms and phosphorylation regulation are key areas of ongoing research and potential drug targeting.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The 14-3-3 protein family, first identified in 1967, plays a ubiquitous role in cell biology.
- These proteins were the first recognized to bind specific phosphoserine/threonine-binding motifs.
- In mammals, the family consists of seven homologous isoforms expressed across all eukaryotes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on 14-3-3 protein regulation by phosphorylation.
- To discuss the functional significance of distinct 14-3-3 isoforms using proteomics data.
- To explore 14-3-3 protein interactions as a potential drug target.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent reports on 14-3-3 protein regulation.
- Analysis of proteomics studies to understand isoform significance.
- Discussion of 14-3-3 protein interaction mechanisms.
Main Results:
- 14-3-3 proteins bind over 300 partners, primarily phosphoproteins.
- They are involved in regulating numerous cellular processes, including metabolism, transcription, and cell cycle.
- Phosphorylation is a key regulatory mechanism for 14-3-3 proteins.
Conclusions:
- 14-3-3 proteins are central regulators of diverse cellular functions due to their protein-binding capabilities.
- Distinct isoforms likely possess specialized roles, as suggested by proteomics data.
- Targeting 14-3-3 interactions presents a promising avenue for therapeutic development.
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