Subcellular localization of the Schlafen protein family

Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2008 May 23;370(1):62-6. doi: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.03.032. Epub 2008 Mar 18.

Abstract

Although the first members of the Schlafen gene family were first described almost 10 years ago, the precise molecular/biochemical functions of the proteins they encode still remain largely unknown. Roles in cell growth, haematopoietic cell differentiation, and T cell development/maturation have, with some experimental support, been postulated, but none have been conclusively verified. Here, we have determined the subcellular localization of Schlafens 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, and 9, representing all three of the murine subgroups. We show that the proteins from subgroups I and II localize to the cytoplasm, while the longer forms in subgroup III localize exclusively to the nuclear compartment. We also demonstrate upregulation of Schlafen2 upon differentiation of haematopoietic cells and show this endogenous protein localizes to the cytoplasm. Thus, we propose the different subgroups of Schlafen proteins are likely to have functionally distinct roles, reflecting their differing localizations within the cell.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Cycle Proteins / analysis
  • Cell Cycle Proteins / classification*
  • Cell Cycle Proteins / metabolism*
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Line
  • Cell Nucleus / chemistry
  • Cell Nucleus / metabolism
  • Cytoplasm / chemistry
  • Cytoplasm / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Myeloid Cells / chemistry
  • Myeloid Cells / cytology
  • Myeloid Cells / metabolism
  • Nuclear Proteins / analysis
  • Nuclear Proteins / metabolism
  • Phylogeny

Substances

  • Cell Cycle Proteins
  • Nuclear Proteins