LEM-Domain proteins: new insights into lamin-interacting proteins

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• The LEM (LAP2, Emerin, MAN1) domain protein family is a diverse group of inner nuclear membrane and intranuclear proteins.
• These proteins play critical roles in fundamental cellular processes such as DNA replication, cell cycle control, chromatin organization, nuclear assembly, gene expression, and signaling.
• The family includes well-characterized proteins like emerin, MAN1, LEM2, and LAP2 isoforms, alongside uncharacterized proteins and Drosophila-specific proteins like otefin and Bocksbeutel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive summary of the LEM-domain protein family.
• To highlight the diverse cellular functions and biological roles of these proteins.
• To integrate recent genetic findings and proposed models regarding LEM-domain proteins, lamins, and their connection to laminopathic diseases.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of existing literature.
• Analysis of genetic studies across various model organisms.
• Integration of proposed models and theoretical frameworks.

Main Results:

• LEM-domain proteins are implicated in a wide array of cellular functions, including replication, cell cycle control, chromatin organization, and nuclear assembly.
• These proteins are involved in regulating gene expression, signaling pathways, and are even implicated in retroviral infection.
• Genetic analyses reveal new insights into the functional diversity of LEM-domain proteins and their involvement in laminopathic diseases.

Conclusions:

• LEM-domain proteins represent a vital and expanding family of nuclear proteins with multifaceted roles in eukaryotic cells.
• Understanding their functions is crucial for comprehending nuclear architecture, cellular processes, and the pathogenesis of laminopathic diseases.
• This review consolidates current knowledge, offering a broader perspective on this significant protein family.