Generation of the short TRIM32 isoform is regulated by Lys 247 acetylation and a PEST sequence

Juncal Garcia-Garcia1, Katrine Stange Overå1, Waqas Khan1

  • 1Department of Medical Biology, Autophagy Research Group, University of Tromsø-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.

Plos One
|May 17, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Tripartite motif 32 (TRIM32) protein regulation involves a PEST sequence and three lysine residues. These modifications control TRIM32 cleavage into isoforms and its auto-ubiquitylation, impacting muscular dystrophy and cancer pathways.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Tripartite motif 32 (TRIM32) is an E3 ligase involved in various biological processes and diseases, including muscular dystrophy and cancer.
  • TRIM32 exists as both full-length and truncated isoforms, but the regulatory mechanisms controlling these forms are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanisms regulating TRIM32 isoforms.
  • To identify regulatory elements and post-translational modifications controlling TRIM32 cleavage and activity.

Main Methods:

  • Identification and characterization of a PEST sequence in TRIM32.
  • Mapping of lysine residues involved in PEST-mediated cleavage and auto-ubiquitylation.
  • Analysis of TRIM32 isoform catalytic activity and functional roles.

Main Results:

  • A conserved PEST sequence in TRIM32 mediates its cleavage, generating a truncated isoform.
  • Three specific lysine residues (K247, K50, K401) regulate PEST-mediated cleavage and auto-ubiquitylation.
  • Acetylation of K247 inhibits TRIM32 cleavage, while K50 and K401 are crucial for auto-ubiquitylation.
  • The short TRIM32 isoform is catalytically inactive, suggesting a dominant-negative function.

Conclusions:

  • TRIM32 activity and isoform generation are regulated by post-translational modifications at specific lysine residues.
  • A conserved PEST sequence plays a critical role in TRIM32 cleavage and isoform regulation.
  • Understanding TRIM32 regulation provides insights into its role in muscular dystrophy and cancer.