Prion-Inducing Domain of Yeast Ure2p and Protease Resistance of Ure2p in Prion-Containing Cells

• DOI: 10.1126/science.270.5233.93
• Publication Date: 2006-10-27T18:19:42Z
• Authors: Daniel C. Masison; Reed B. Wickner
• Keywords: Fungal prion; Catabolism

The genetic properties of the [URE3] non-Mendelian element Saccharomyces cerevisiae suggest that it is a prion (infectious protein) form Ure2p, regulator nitrogen catabolism. In extracts from strains, Ure2p was partially resistant to proteinase K compared with wild-type extracts. Overexpression in strains induced 20- 200-fold increase frequency which arose. just amino-terminal 65 residues increased induction 6000-fold. Without this "prion-inducing domain" carboxyl-terminal domain performed regulation function but could not be changed state. Thus, state trans, whereas cis conferred susceptibility adjoining regulatory infections.