RNF4

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

RNF4 (RING Finger Protein 4) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the RNF4 gene. This protein is a member of the RING finger family of proteins, which are characterized by the presence of a RING (Really Interesting New Gene) finger domain, a specialized type of zinc finger domain that mediates protein-protein interactions.

Function[edit | edit source]

RNF4 is involved in various cellular processes, including the regulation of transcription, DNA repair, and protein degradation. It functions as an E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase, which means it plays a crucial role in the process of ubiquitination, a post-translational modification where ubiquitin proteins are attached to a substrate protein. This modification can signal for the protein's degradation via the proteasome, alter its cellular location, affect its activity, or promote or prevent protein interactions.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The RNF4 protein contains a RING finger domain, which is essential for its function as an E3 ubiquitin ligase. This domain coordinates two zinc ions and is responsible for the interaction with E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes. The protein also contains SUMO-interacting motifs (SIMs), which allow it to bind to SUMOylated proteins, targeting them for ubiquitination.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations or dysregulation of RNF4 have been implicated in various diseases, including certain types of cancer. By targeting SUMOylated proteins for degradation, RNF4 helps maintain cellular homeostasis and prevents the accumulation of potentially harmful proteins.

Related Proteins[edit | edit source]

RNF4 is part of a larger family of RING finger proteins, which includes other members such as RNF2, RNF8, and RNF168. These proteins share a common RING finger domain but have distinct functions and regulatory mechanisms.

Research[edit | edit source]

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the precise mechanisms by which RNF4 and other RING finger proteins regulate cellular processes. This includes studies on their role in DNA damage response, cell cycle control, and signal transduction pathways.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]

Myoglobin.png
This article is a stub related to proteins. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD