The Concept of Protein Mosaics: Physiological Role and Relevance for Prion Disease

Authors: Francesco Agnati, Luigi; Genedani, Susanna; Carone, Chiara; Leo, Giuseppina; Fuxe, Kjell

Source: Current Proteomics, Volume 3, Number 3, October 2006 , pp. 171-179(9)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

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Abstract:

The tendency of the proteins to aggregate (i.e., their so-called Lego property) is viewed as a necessary feature of proteins to build up molecular networks, which are the informational substrate that allows integrative actions of cells and hence of tissues. Thus, the concept of physiological protein mosaics is discussed not only as the basis for the formation of structural elements of the cell and of the extra-cellular matrix, but also as the main component of molecular networks. Against this background, the hypothesis is introduced that prion-like properties of some proteins have a possible physiological meaning for the formation of physiological protein mosaics and hence of complex molecular networks. Protein misfolding and the Lego property can favour the formation of unwanted protein aggregates. On this basis, the concept of pathological mosaics is introduced as the most frequent consequence of alterations in the three dimensional structures of proteins, thus representing a feature characterising the conformational protein diseases.

It is postulated that pathological protein mosaics affect the structure and function of the global molecular network enmeshing the whole central nervous system leading to neurodegenerative disease, the most clear cut example being Prion disease.

Keywords: Protein mosaics; protein misfolding; global molecular network; central nervous system; prion disease; neurodegenerative diseases

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/157016406779475362

Affiliations: 1: Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Physiology, Via Campi 287, I41100 Modena, Italy.

Publication date: 2006-10-01

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Current Proteomics research in the emerging field of proteomics is growing at an extremely rapid rate. The principal aim of Current Proteomics is to publish well-timed review articles in this fast-expanding area on topics relevant and significant to the development of proteomics. Current Proteomics is an essential journal for everyone involved in proteomics and related fields in both academia and industry.

The Concept of Protein Mosaics: Physiological Role and Relevance for Prion Disease

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