DOI

The subcellular localization and secretion of proteins synthesized in the cytosol are determined by short amino acid sequences in their molecules. N-terminal transit peptides provide for protein translocation across the membranes of the ER, mitochondria, plastids, and microbodies. Later, these peptides are cleaved off by processing peptidases. C-terminal peptides direct some proteins into microbodies and vacuoles. Transport into the nucleus and insertion in the membranes are determined by the specific sequences that reside in the molecule of the mature protein. Specific receptors associated with the protein-translocating channel recognize transit peptides. Protein unfolding is required for successful protein transport through these channels. Chaperones maintain proteins in such a state. Folded proteins cross the nuclear pore complex and the membrane of microbodies. Protein transport is tightly associated with their processing. During the vesicular protein transport within the endomembrane system (ER, Golgi apparatus, plasma membrane, and vacuoles), correct protein targeting is ensured by protein sorting during vesicle loading, the assembly of corresponding protein coats, vesicle transport to the acceptor membrane, and specific membrane fusion.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)255-268
Number of pages14
JournalRussian Journal of Plant Physiology
Volume49
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Dec 2002

    Scopus subject areas

  • Plant Science

    Research areas

  • Chaperones, Endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, Microbodies, Mitochondria, Nucleus, Plastids, Protein transport, Secretion, Transit polypeptide, Vacuoles, Vesicles

ID: 36420723