Brefeldin A: the advantage of being uncompetitive
Article Abstract:
Brefeldin A is a toxin that can wreak havoc on mammalian cells. Within minutes, the toxin causes the Golgi complex to disassemble and redistribute into the endoplasmic reticulum. This collapse of the Golgi apparatus is believed to be caused by the inhibition of exchange factors linked to the ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF). While the molecular mechanism of Brefeldin A's action is not known, it is theorized to be due to the trapping of the exchange reaction in a dead-end complex. Further research could prove to be very useful in the development of drugs that target other small G proteins.
Publication Name: Cell
Subject: Biological sciences
ISSN: 0092-8674
Year: 1999
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Lonely no more: p53 finds its kin in a tumor suppressor haven
Article Abstract:
It was assumed that a p53 pivotal tumor suppressor gene family does not exist. However a novel gene has been described with similar structure and function to that of p53. The p73 gene may also be tumor suppressor gene, encoding two distinct polypeptides. P73 could also be a sequence-specific transactivator, requiring oligomerization, and may regulate genes partly overlapping those targeted by p53.
Publication Name: Cell
Subject: Biological sciences
ISSN: 0092-8674
Year: 1997
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