Protein splicing

intein mech

Intein splicing dogma

Protein splicing is a post-translational modification in which a protein undergoes a modification that results in the excision of a segment of itself (the intein) and the joining of the remaining portions (the exteins) without the need for a ligase. This process is autocatalytic, meaning the protein splices itself. Protein splicing has been observed in all kingdoms of life and has implications for biotechnology, evolutionary biology, and the study of diseases.

Mechanism

The mechanism of protein splicing involves several steps. Initially, the intein, which is the internal segment of the protein destined for removal, catalyzes its own excision from the precursor protein. This is followed by the ligation of the flanking sequences, known as exteins, to form a new peptide bond. This process can occur through different pathways, including the N-O or N-S shift mechanism, depending on the specific intein and the context in which splicing occurs.

Biological Significance

Protein splicing has significant biological implications. It plays a role in the regulation of gene expression, protein maturation, and the generation of protein diversity. Additionally, inteins have been found to harbor endonuclease activity, which can be involved in the propagation of mobile genetic elements, contributing to genetic diversity and evolution.

Applications

In biotechnology, protein splicing has been harnessed for various applications, including the production of recombinant proteins, the development of novel therapeutics, and the creation of biosensors. The ability to control protein splicing through external stimuli or chemical inducers has opened up new avenues for research and development in synthetic biology.

Evolution

The evolutionary origins of protein splicing remain a topic of investigation. It is hypothesized that inteins may have ancient origins, possibly predating the last universal common ancestor (LUCA). Their widespread distribution across different life forms suggests a significant role in early protein evolution and genetic diversity.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its potential, the application of protein splicing in research and industry faces challenges. These include the need for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying intein specificity and activity, as well as the development of more efficient and controllable splicing systems. Future research in protein splicing aims to overcome these challenges, paving the way for new technologies and therapeutic strategies.