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Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Characterization at the Molecular Level using Robust Biochemical Approaches of a New Kinase Protein
Published on: June 30, 2019
It takes two to tango: the structure and function of LIM, RING, PHD and MYND domains
J M Matthews1, M Bhati, E Lehtomaki
1School of Molecular and Microbial Biosciences, University of Sydney, Sydney NSW 2006, Australia. j.matthews@mmb.usyd.edu.au
This review covers LIM, RING, PHD, and MYND domains, which bind zinc and mediate protein interactions rather than DNA binding. Understanding their structure-function relationships is key to modulating their biological activities.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Structural Biology
Background:
- LIM, RING, PHD, and MYND domains are characterized by zinc ion ligation.
- These domains mediate protein-protein interactions, distinguishing them from DNA-binding zinc fingers.
- They are implicated in diverse cellular processes including gene regulation, cell adhesion, and signal transduction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structure-function relationships of LIM, RING, PHD, and MYND domains.
- To highlight their roles in various biological processes.
- To discuss potential strategies for modulating their activities.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on zinc-binding domains.
- Analysis of domain structures and their functional implications.
- Synthesis of information on protein-protein interactions mediated by these domains.
Main Results:
- LIM domains regulate gene expression, cell adhesion, and motility.
- RING domains are central to E3 ubiquitin protein ligase activity.
- PHD domains function as chromatin readers for histone methylation.
- MYND domains are associated with ubiquitin ligase and histone methyltransferase activities.
Conclusions:
- These zinc-binding domains play critical roles in cellular regulation through protein interactions.
- Understanding their specific functions is crucial for deciphering complex biological pathways.
- Targeting these domains offers potential therapeutic strategies.
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