Isotype-specific functions of Raf kinases

Exp Cell Res. 1999 Nov 25;253(1):34-46. doi: 10.1006/excr.1999.4689.

Abstract

The family of Raf-protein kinases consisting of A-Raf, B-Raf, and c-Raf-1 is involved in cellular processes which regulate proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Cell-culture experiments and the knockout of individual Raf genes suggested that the three Raf isoforms have overlapping and unique regulatory functions. However, it is not known how these isotype-specific functions of Raf kinases occur in the cell. Published data suggest that Raf proteins might differ in the regulation of their activation as well as in their ability to connect to downstream signaling pathways. Since Raf is part of a multiprotein complex and protein-protein interactions are important for Raf signaling, we propose that isotype-specific functions can be achieved by isotype-restricted protein binding. Recently we were able to identify candidates for such Raf-isoform-specific interaction partners.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoantigens
  • Casein Kinase II
  • Isoenzymes / metabolism*
  • Ligands
  • MAP Kinase Signaling System
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Multiprotein Complexes
  • Proteasome Endopeptidase Complex
  • Protein Binding
  • Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases / metabolism
  • Proteins / metabolism
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-raf / metabolism*
  • Pyruvate Kinase / metabolism

Substances

  • Autoantigens
  • Isoenzymes
  • Ki antigen
  • Ligands
  • Multiprotein Complexes
  • Proteins
  • Pyruvate Kinase
  • Casein Kinase II
  • Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-raf
  • Proteasome Endopeptidase Complex