The ability of high-risk HPV E6 oncoproteins to target cellular proteins which harbor PDZ domains is believed to play an important role in the virus life cycle and to influence the ability of these viruses to bring about malignant transformation. Whilst many of these PDZ proteins are potential tumour suppressors, involved in the control of cell polarity and cell-contact, recent studies suggest that mislocalisation or overexpression might result in the emergence of oncogenic functions. This has been shown most clearly for two E6 targets, hDlg and hScrib.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe E6 protein from high-risk human papillomaviruses appears necessary for persistence of viral episomes in cells but the underlying mechanism is unclear. E6 has many activities, including its ability to bind and degrade PDZ domain-containing proteins, such as hScrib. However little is known about the role of these interactions for E6 function and the viral life cycle.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe male accessory glands (MAGs) of many insect species produce and secrete a number of reproductive proteins collectively named Acps. These proteins, many of which are rapidly evolving, are essential for male fertility and represent formidable modulators of female postmating behavior. Upon copulation, the transfer of Acps has been shown in Drosophila and other insects to trigger profound physiological and behavioral changes in females, including enhanced ovulation/oviposition and reduced mating receptivity.
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