Alterations in the formation of ribosomes (the elements of the cell where proteins are made) cause the induction of p53 protein and cell cycle disruption. This process is crucial to understand fundamental biological processes and the emergence of various diseases. Now, scientists at the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) have found that this response is achieved independently, depending on which subunit of the ribosome (40S and 60S) is impaired, by the joint action of two proteins of the ribosome. The research results are published in the latest issue of the journal Genes and Development.
The p53 protein, produced by the gene of the same name, is a tumour suppressor in humans and other mammals. Half of human tumours have mutations in the p53 gene and alterations of regulators of this gene are present in many other cancers. However, p53 is not only a tumour suppressor but is involved in other cellular processes such as longevity, mitochondrial oxidation and glucose metabolism. Activation of p53 protein due to malfunctions in the formation of ribosomes is associated with several rare diseases that are linked with mutations in components of the cell nucleus.
The study by IDIBELL researchers shows that ribosomal proteins RPL11 and RPL5 cooperate to suppress Hdm2, another protein that regulates the degradation of p53. This causes increased levels of p53 and cell cycle arrest. These results are contrary to previous dogma, claiming that other ribosome proteins could elicit a similar response to RPL11 and RPL5.
The coordinator of the study, George Thomas, director of the research group of Metabolic Diseases and Cancer at IDIBELL explains that the knowledge of this mechanism "may have implications in understanding fundamental processes such as longevity, metabolic diseases or cancer and can provide a basis for developing new drugs."
'/>"/>
| Contact: Jordi Morat comunicacio@idibell.cat IDIBELL-Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute Source:Eurekalert |
Related biology news :
1. New key mechanism in cell division discovered
2. Low-cost nanosheet catalyst discovered to split hydrogen from water
3. Global warming refuge discovered near at-risk Pacific island nation of Kiribati
4. Key proteins newly discovered form and function may provide novel cancer treatment target
5. 24 new species of lizards discovered on Caribbean islands are close to extinction
6. New form of intellectual disability discovered
7. Scientists have discovered genes that increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures
8. Housekeeping mechanism for brain stem cells discovered
9. New genetic mechanism of immune deficiency discovered
10. New immune defense enzyme discovered
11. Newly discovered foot points to a new kid on the hominin block
| Copyright © 2003-2012 Bio-Medicine. All rights reserved. ABOUT | CONTACT US | DISCLAIMER | PRIVACY POLICY | TERMS AND CONDITIONS |  |