symbiont-mediated perturbation of host ubiquitin-like protein modification

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

A process by which a symbiont alters ubiquitin-like protein modification of target proteins of either host or symbiont proteins. This includes ubiquitination, SUMOylation, NEDDylation, and ISG15ylation. The ubiquitination status of a protein affects whether it is targeted to the proteasome for degradation. The host is defined as the larger of the organisms involved in a symbiotic interaction. [PMID:25166298, PMID:26483404, PMID:26712804]

Symbiont-mediated perturbation of host ubiquitin-like protein modification is a complex biological process where symbiotic organisms, like bacteria or fungi, manipulate the host's ubiquitin-like (UBL) protein modification system to their advantage. UBLs are small proteins that attach to target proteins, regulating their activity, localization, and fate. They are involved in various cellular processes, including protein degradation, signal transduction, and DNA repair.

Symbionts can perturb host UBL pathways in several ways:

1. **Production of UBL-like proteins:** Symbionts may produce proteins resembling host UBLs, leading to competition or interference with the host's system. These mimicry proteins can compete with host UBLs for binding sites on target proteins, potentially altering their function or targeting them for degradation.

2. **Modulation of UBL ligases and deubiquitinases:** Symbionts can directly or indirectly influence the activity of host enzymes involved in UBL attachment (ligases) and removal (deubiquitinases). By altering the activity of these enzymes, symbionts can modify the levels of UBL modifications on specific target proteins, affecting their function.

3. **Targeting host UBL-dependent pathways:** Symbionts may target specific UBL pathways crucial for host processes. For example, a symbiont might disrupt the host's autophagy pathway by altering the function of UBL-mediated protein degradation, potentially impacting host nutrient acquisition or immune response.

4. **Evolutionary adaptation of host UBL systems:** Over time, host organisms may evolve to tolerate or even benefit from symbiont-mediated UBL modifications. This can involve adaptations in host UBL genes, enzymes, or target proteins, leading to a co-evolutionary interplay between the symbiont and host.

These disruptions can have significant consequences for host cells, affecting various functions like immune responses, nutrient uptake, and cellular signaling. In some cases, the perturbations are beneficial for both the symbiont and the host, while in others, they may be detrimental to the host. Understanding the mechanisms by which symbionts manipulate host UBL systems is crucial for comprehending the intricate interplay between symbiotic organisms and their hosts.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (186)