Life outside the LINC complex - Do SUN proteins have LINC-independent functions?

Bioessays. 2024 Aug;46(8):e2400034. doi: 10.1002/bies.202400034. Epub 2024 May 27.

Abstract

Sad1 and UNC84 (SUN) and Klarsicht, ANC-1, and Syne homology (KASH) proteins interact at the nuclear periphery to form the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex, spanning the nuclear envelope (NE) and connecting the cytoskeleton with the nuclear interior. It is now well-documented that several cellular functions depend on LINC complex formation, including cell differentiation and migration. Intriguingly, recent studies suggest that SUN proteins participate in cellular processes where their association with KASH proteins may not be required. Building on this recent research, we elaborate on the hypothesis that SUN proteins may perform LINC-independent functions and discuss the modalities that may allow SUN proteins to function at the INM when they are not forming LINC complex.

Keywords: LINC complex; SUN; cytoskeleton; lamina; nuclear envelope; nucleoskeleton; nucleus.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytoskeleton* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Membrane Proteins / genetics
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism
  • Nuclear Envelope* / metabolism
  • Nuclear Matrix* / metabolism
  • Nuclear Proteins* / genetics
  • Nuclear Proteins* / metabolism

Substances

  • Nuclear Proteins
  • Membrane Proteins