Mechanism of farnesylated CAAX protein processing by the intramembrane protease Rce1.

CAAX proteins have essential roles in multiple signalling pathways, controlling processes such as proliferation, differentiation and carcinogenesis. The ∼120 mammalian CAAX proteins function at cellular membranes and include the Ras superfamily of small GTPases, nuclear lamins, the γ-subunit of heterotrimeric GTPases, and several protein kinases and phosphatases. The proper localization of CAAX proteins to cell membranes is orchestrated by a series of post-translational modifications of the carboxy-terminal CAAX motifs (where C is cysteine, A is an aliphatic amino acid and X is any amino acid).

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria and infection in children with cerebral palsy requiring mechanical ventilation.

Introduction: Severe and chronic illness can alter the bacterial flora carried in the oropharynx and gut. There are little data on the bacterial flora of children with chronic neurologic impairment.

Objectives: To assess carriage of abnormal bacterial flora, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, infection, and mortality in children with cerebral palsy (CP) admitted for pediatric intensive care.