Cep57, a multidomain protein with unique microtubule and centrosomal localization domains

Biochem J. 2008 Jun 1;412(2):265-73. doi: 10.1042/BJ20071501.

Abstract

The present study demonstrates different functional domains of a recently described centrosomal protein, Cep57 (centrosomal protein 57). Endogenous Cep57 protein and ectopic expression of full-length protein or the N-terminal coiled-coil domain localize to the centrosome internal to gamma-tubulin, suggesting that it is either on both centrioles or on a centromatrix component. The N-terminus can also multimerize with the N-terminus of other Cep57 molecules. The C-terminus contains a second coiled-coil domain that directly binds to MTs (microtubules). This domain both nucleates and bundles MTs in vitro. This activity was also seen in vivo, as overexpression of full-length Cep57 or the C-terminus generates nocodazole-resistant MT cables in cells. Based on the present findings, we propose that Cep57 serves as a link with its N-terminus anchored to the centriole or centromatrix and its C-terminus to MTs.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carrier Proteins / chemistry*
  • Carrier Proteins / genetics
  • Carrier Proteins / metabolism
  • Cell Cycle Proteins
  • Cell Line
  • Centrosome / chemistry*
  • Centrosome / metabolism
  • Centrosome / ultrastructure
  • Glutathione Transferase / genetics
  • Glutathione Transferase / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Microtubules / chemistry*
  • Microtubules / metabolism
  • Microtubules / ultrastructure
  • Protein Conformation*
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary*
  • RNA Interference
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / chemistry
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / genetics
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • Carrier Proteins
  • Cell Cycle Proteins
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins
  • Tsp57 protein, mouse
  • Glutathione Transferase