How Did the First Protein Translocators Integrate into the ER Membrane?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the integration of the first protein translocators into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane, exploring the mechanisms and theories behind this process. Participants consider various hypotheses regarding the necessity and functionality of translocators in membrane protein integration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that certain proteins may not require translocators for integration into the ER membrane due to their size or structure.
  • Others suggest that proteins with hydrophilic chains would need translocators to cross the membrane, indicating a distinction based on protein characteristics.
  • One participant mentions that some secreted bacterial proteins possess their own translocation domains, speculating that eukaryotic ER components might similarly encode self-translocators, though no specific examples are provided.
  • There is a suggestion of a type V-like mechanism for protein translocation, with participants expressing a need for further research on this topic.
  • Participants share links to external resources that discuss the type V secretion pathway, indicating interest in understanding the mechanisms involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying hypotheses regarding the mechanisms of protein translocation, with no consensus reached on how the first protein translocators integrated into the ER membrane. Multiple competing views remain, particularly concerning the necessity of translocators based on protein characteristics.

Contextual Notes

Some claims rely on assumptions about protein structure and function, and there are unresolved questions regarding the specific mechanisms of translocation and the existence of self-translocators in eukaryotes.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying cell biology, molecular biology, and protein biochemistry, particularly in the context of membrane protein integration and translocation mechanisms.

nautica
Membrane proteins are integrated into the ER membrane by means of protein translocators, which are themselves membrane proteins.

So how would the first protein translocators become incorporated into the ER membrane?

Nautica
 
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Aww, c'mon, why don't you ask a hard question for a change? :smile:

I truly have no idea, but could venture a wild guess that perhaps some don't require translocators due to their size or structure, but it is only a wild guess.
 
It could just be that they very much LIKE to be in the membrane, so as moonbear said they just don't need translocators. Proteins that WOULD need translocators are those that have very hydrophilic chains that thus normally would never cross the membrane by themselves.
 
I do know that some secreted proteins in bacteria have their own translocation domains, ie. type V secretion systems. Wouldn't be too far fetched to say that some eukaryotic ER components could encode self translocators specific for ER membranes, though I don't know of any specific examples.
 
I would have to agree with none there must be a type v -like mechanism for protein transltor. I will do more research.
 
Yes, that is a thought. I'll check on that also.

Thanks
nautica
 
btw
Moonbear, you sig speaks of voting. What are we voting for?

nautica
 
nautica said:
btw
Moonbear, you sig speaks of voting. What are we voting for?

nautica

In the PF Community section, there are 2004 award nominations up for voting.
 
iansmith said:
there must be a type v -like mechanism
What mechanism would that be?
 
  • #10
Monique said:
What mechanism would that be?

good question
 
  • #11
Type V secretion pathway are also known as Autotransporter protein secretion system.

http://www.horizonpress.com/cimb/abstracts/v6/09.html
http://pasteur.fontismedia.com/infiles/out/res031162.pdf
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #12
sweet, good info.

Thanks
Nautica
 

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