Nuclear polyglutamine-containing protein aggregates as active proteolytic centers.

ABSTRACT: Protein aggregates and nuclear inclusions (NIs) containing components of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), expanded polyglutamine (polyQ) proteins, and transcriptional coactivators characterize cellular responses to stress and are hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases. The biological function of polyQ-containing aggregates is unknown. To analyze proteasomal activity within such aggregates, we present a nanoparticle (NP)-based method that enables controlled induction of sodium dodecyl sulfate-resistant inclusions of endogenous nuclear proteins while normal regulatory mechanisms remain in place. Consistent with the idea that the UPS maintains quality control, inhibition of proteasomal proteolysis promotes extra large protein aggregates (1.4-2 mum), whereas formation of NP-induced NIs

SUBMITTER: Chen M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2265588 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature