The Rise of the Ubiquitin Super Family
Van G. Wilson
from: SUMOylation and Ubiquitination: Current and Emerging Concepts (Edited by: Van G. Wilson). Caister Academic Press, U.K. (2019) Pages: 3-14.
Abstract
Ubiquitin and SUMOs are related small proteins that are members of the larger ubiquitin superfamily. Members of this family (Ubls) are post-translational modifiers that are covalently attached to target proteins through lysine residues in the target. Biochemically, the processing and conjugation of these modifiers is remarkably similar, although the individual enzymes and components are usually specific for their individual modifier. The modification process is dynamic with exact demodification occurring through specific proteases that remove the Ubls and restore the target proteins to their original state. Functionally, Ubl modification can influence many aspects of protein biology including activity, localization, stability, and interactions with partners. Importantly, examples of functional cross-talk between Ub and SUMO modifications have been observed, which provides exciting opportunities for combinatorial regulation of target proteins. This chapter will introduce basic principles of ubiquitinylation and sumoylation and will also provide a general overview of important terms and concepts that will be explored in more detail in the remaining chapters read more ...
