Proteasome-derived peptides: separating the trash from the recycling

Abstract

The proteasome is an essential protein complex in all cells. Proteasomes have two main functions: protein degradation and peptide generation. While proteasome-dependent protein degradation removes proteins and is critical for cellular function, the newly generated proteasome-derived peptides, which range in size and sequence, are emerging as essential cellular effector molecules: they are expressed on MHC-I in the immune system, function as novel modulators of neuronal signaling, are involved in innate immunity and intracellular signaling, and can be metabolized further for important cellular processes. Here, we take a comprehensive look at the mechanics behind proteasome-mediated peptide generation; the function of proteasome-derived peptides in signaling and metabolism relevant to cellular biology, health, and disease; and the techniques enabling these studies.

Keywords: amino acid recycling; antimicrobial peptides; immunoproteasome; neuronal membrane proteasome; peptides; proteasome-derived peptides.