Sequence information required for protein translocation from the cytoplasm

The identification of sequence information, which is important in determining the secretion and localization of proteins, continues to be one of the focal points in studies of protein export. It is becoming evident that the amino terminal signal peptide, found in the precursors of most secreted proteins, and sequences corresponding to the mature, processed protein have become optimal for proper routing to a particular cellular location. This review will focus on several recent studies which attempt to unravel the nature of the sequence information significant for optimizing an early step in the export process, namely, translocation from the cytoplasm.