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Src homology 3 domain of the Protein Tyrosine Kinase, Abelson kinase Abl (or c-Abl) is a ubiquitously-expressed cytoplasmic (or nonreceptor) PTK that contains SH3, SH2, and tyr kinase domains in its N-terminal region, as well as nuclear localization motifs, a putative DNA-binding domain, and F- and G-actin binding domains in its C-terminal tail. It also contains a short autoinhibitory cap region in its N-terminus. Abl function depends on its subcellular localization. In the cytoplasm, Abl plays a role in cell proliferation and survival. In response to DNA damage or oxidative stress, Abl is transported to the nucleus where it induces apoptosis. In chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) patients, an aberrant translocation results in the replacement of the first exon of Abl with the BCR (breakpoint cluster region) gene. The resulting BCR-Abl fusion protein is constitutively active and associates into tetramers, resulting in a hyperactive kinase sending a continuous signal. This leads to uncontrolled proliferation, morphological transformation and anti-apoptotic effects. BCR-Abl is the target of selective inhibitors, such as imatinib (Gleevec), used in the treatment of CML. Abl2, also known as ARG (Abelson-related gene), is thought to play a cooperative role with Abl in the proper development of the nervous system. The Tel-ARG fusion protein, resulting from reciprocal translocation between chromosomes 1 and 12, is associated with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). SH3 domains are protein interaction domains that bind to proline-rich ligands with moderate affinity and selectivity, preferentially to PxxP motifs. They play versatile and diverse roles in the cell including the regulation of enzymes, changing the subcellular localization of signaling pathway components, and mediating the formation of multiprotein complex assemblies. |
Jiyao W et al.(2023). "The conserved domain database in 2023.",