CREST: A New Superfamily of Membrane Proteins
Author Information
Author(s): Pei Jimin, Millay Douglas P, Olson Eric N, Grishin Nick V
Primary Institution: Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Hypothesis
The study investigates the relationships among various transmembrane protein families to classify them into a superfamily of putative hydrolases.
Conclusion
The CREST superfamily likely consists of metal-dependent hydrolases that play diverse roles in cellular functions.
Supporting Evidence
- The study identified nearly 3000 CREST members from the NCBI non-redundant database.
- Statistically significant sequence similarities were found among alkaline ceramidases, PAQR receptors, and other protein families.
- The CREST superfamily includes proteins with diverse functions such as hormone receptors and RNA transporters.
Takeaway
Scientists found a big family of proteins that might help break down fats and other substances in cells, which could be important for many body functions.
Methodology
The study used sensitive sequence comparison methods, including PSI-BLAST and HHpred, to identify homologs and classify proteins into the CREST superfamily.
Limitations
The study does not provide experimental validation for the predicted functions of many CREST members.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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