Targeting of C‐Terminal (Tail)‐Anchored Proteins: Understanding how Cytoplasmic Activities are Anchored to Intracellular Membranes

• DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0854.2001.20108.x
• Publication Date: 2003-03-12T22:12:03Z
• Authors: Binks Wattenberg; Trevor Lithgow
• Keywords: Transport protein; C2 domain; Peripheral membrane protein; Organelle; Protein Sorting Signals

A class of integral membrane proteins, referred to as ‘tail‐anchored proteins’, are inserted into phospholipid bilayers via a single segment hydrophobic amino acids at the C‐terminus, thereby displaying large functional domain in cytosol. This attachment strategy allows eukaryotic cells position wide range cytoplasmic activities close surface an intracellular membrane. Tail‐anchored proteins often, but not always, demonstrate selective distribution specific organelles. membrane‐specific is required for number targeting that tail‐anchored, may or be critical numerous tail‐anchored pro‐apoptotic and anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 family. Recent work has begun address mechanism their resident membranes, questions remain. What signals determine each protein's location? Are there receptors these and, if so, how do they function? steps integrate bilayers? In this Traffic Interchange , we summarise what known about outline areas currently under study.