A conserved membrane-binding domain targets proteins to organelle contact sites

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183 Scopus citations

Abstract

Membrane contact sites (MCSs), where the membranes of two organelles are closely apposed, are regions where small molecules such as lipids or calcium are exchanged between organelles. We have identified a conserved membrane-binding domain found exclusively in proteins at MCSs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The synaptotagmin-like-mitochondrial-lipid binding protein (SMP) domain is conserved across species. We show that all seven proteins that contain this domain in yeast localize to one of three MCSs. Human proteins with SMP domains also localize to MCSs when expressed in yeast. The SMP domain binds membranes and is necessary for protein targeting to MCSs. Proteins containing this domain could be involved in lipid metabolism. This is the first protein domain found exclusively in proteins at MCSs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)49-58
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of cell science
Volume125
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • ERMES
  • Lipid-binding domain
  • Membrane contact sites
  • SMP domain

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cell Biology

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