C-terminal protein deglutamylation

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The removal of a C-terminal, gene-encoded glutamate residue from a protein. [GOC:sp, PMID:21074048]

C-terminal protein deglutamylation is a critical post-translational modification involved in the removal of glutamate residues from the C-terminus of proteins. This process plays a vital role in regulating protein function, stability, and interactions.

**Mechanism of C-terminal Protein Deglutamylation:**

The enzymatic removal of glutamate residues is catalyzed by a family of enzymes known as carboxypeptidases. These enzymes exhibit substrate specificity, targeting proteins with C-terminal glutamate residues. The reaction mechanism involves the hydrolysis of the peptide bond between the penultimate amino acid and the C-terminal glutamate residue.

**Biological Significance:**

* **Protein Stability:** Deglutamylation can influence protein stability by altering the interactions between the protein and its surrounding environment.
* **Protein Function:** The removal of glutamate residues can modulate protein activity by affecting its ability to bind to other molecules or undergo conformational changes.
* **Protein Targeting:** Deglutamylation can regulate the trafficking of proteins to specific cellular compartments.
* **Cellular Signaling:** Deglutamylation is implicated in various cellular signaling pathways, including those involved in growth, differentiation, and stress responses.

**Examples of Deglutamylation Targets:**

* **Histones:** Deglutamylation of histone tails is involved in chromatin remodeling and gene regulation.
* **Tubulin:** Deglutamylation of tubulin affects microtubule dynamics and cytoskeletal organization.
* **Neurotransmitters:** Deglutamylation of neurotransmitter precursors influences neurotransmission.

**Regulation of Deglutamylation:**

The activity of carboxypeptidases, and consequently the rate of deglutamylation, is regulated by various factors, including:

* **Substrate Availability:** The abundance of substrates with C-terminal glutamate residues.
* **Cellular Environment:** pH, temperature, and the presence of cofactors can influence enzyme activity.
* **Post-translational Modifications:** Phosphorylation or acetylation of carboxypeptidases can modulate their activity.

**Conclusion:**

C-terminal protein deglutamylation is a crucial post-translational modification that plays a diverse role in cellular processes. The removal of glutamate residues at protein C-termini can influence protein stability, function, targeting, and signaling, ultimately impacting cellular homeostasis and organismal development.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (13)