The LIM domain: a new structural motif found in zinc-finger-like proteins

An important new family of proteins has recently been described that carries a novel cysteine-rich zinc-binding domain called the LIM domain. This protein family is present in mammals, amphibians, flies, worms and plants and its main function is in developmental regulation. Although a role in protein-protein interaction seems likely, intriguing similarities to GATA zinc fingers imply that the LIM domain may also be involved in binding to specific nucleic acids.