Genetic Analysis of Protein Translocation

Thomas J. Silhavy, Angela M. Mitchell

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

Cells in all domains of life must translocate newly synthesized proteins both across membranes and into membranes. In eukaryotes, proteins are translocated into the lumen of the ER or the ER membrane. In prokaryotes, proteins are translocated into the cytoplasmic membrane or through the membrane into the periplasm for Gram-negative bacteria or the extracellular space for Gram-positive bacteria. Much of what we know about protein translocation was learned through genetic selections and screens utilizing lacZ gene fusions in Escherichia coli. This review covers the basic principles of protein translocation and how they were discovered and developed. In particular, we discuss how lacZ gene fusions and the phenotypes conferred were exploited to identify the genes involved in protein translocation and provide insights into their mechanisms of action. These approaches, which allowed the elucidation of processes that are conserved throughout the domains of life, illustrate the power of seemingly simple experiments.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)217-228
Number of pages12
JournalProtein Journal
Volume38
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 15 2019

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Bioengineering
  • Biochemistry
  • Organic Chemistry

Keywords

  • Gene fusion
  • Prl mutant
  • Protein secretion
  • Protein translocation
  • Sec

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