The SCF-Fbw7 ubiquitin ligase degrades MED13 and MED13L and regulates CDK8 module association with Mediator

Genes Dev. 2013 Jan 15;27(2):151-6. doi: 10.1101/gad.207720.112. Epub 2013 Jan 15.

Abstract

The Mediator complex is an essential transcription regulator that bridges transcription factors with RNA polymerase II. This interaction is controlled by dynamic interactions between Mediator and the CDK8 module, but the mechanisms governing CDK8 module-Mediator association remain poorly understood. We show that Fbw7, a tumor suppressor and ubiquitin ligase, binds to CDK8-Mediator and targets MED13/13L for degradation. MED13/13L physically link the CDK8 module to Mediator, and Fbw7 loss increases CDK8 module-Mediator association. Our work reveals a novel mechanism regulating CDK8 module-Mediator association and suggests an expanded role for Fbw7 in transcriptional control and an unanticipated relationship with the CDK8 oncogene.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 8 / metabolism*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • HEK293 Cells
  • HeLa Cells
  • Humans
  • Mediator Complex / metabolism*
  • Protein Binding
  • Proteolysis
  • SKP Cullin F-Box Protein Ligases / genetics
  • SKP Cullin F-Box Protein Ligases / metabolism*
  • Ubiquitination

Substances

  • MED13 protein, human
  • MED13L protein, human
  • Mediator Complex
  • SKP Cullin F-Box Protein Ligases
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 8