Genomic Characterization of the Mouse Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein 1 and 2 Genes

ABSTRACT Inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP)-like protein-1 (ILP-1) (also known as X-linked IAP [XIAP] and mammalian IAP homolog A [MIHA]) is a potent inhibitor of apoptosis and exerts its effects, at least in part, by the direct association with and inhibition of specific caspases. Here, we describe the molecular cloning and characterization of a human gene related to ILP-1, termed ILP-2. Despite high homology to ILP-1, ILP-2 is encoded by a distinct gene, which in normal tissues is expressed solely in testis. In contrast to ILP-1, overexpression of ILP-2 had no protective effect on apoptosis mediated by Fas (also known as CD95) or tumor necrosis factor. However, ILP-2 potently inhibited apoptosis induced by overexpression of Bax or by coexpression of caspase 9 with Apaf-1, and preincubation of cytosolic extracts with ILP-2 abrogated caspase activation in vitro. A processed form of caspase 9 could be coprecipitated with ILP-2 from cells, suggesting a physical interaction between ILP-2 and caspase 9. Thus, ILP-2 is a novel IAP family member with restricted specificity for caspase 9.

Download Full-text

BRUCE, a Giant E2/E3 Ubiquitin Ligase and Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein of the trans-Golgi Network, Is Required for Normal Placenta Development and Mouse Survival

Molecular and Cellular Biology ◽

10.1128/mcb.24.21.9339-9350.2004 ◽

2004 ◽

Vol 24 (21) ◽

pp. 9339-9350 ◽

Cited By ~ 48

Author(s):

Kristina Lotz ◽

George Pyrowolakis ◽

Stefan Jentsch

Keyword(s):

Growth Defect ◽

Inhibitor Of Apoptosis ◽

Placental Development ◽

Inhibitor Of Apoptosis Protein ◽

Complete Inactivation ◽

Mouse Tissues ◽

Apoptosis Protein ◽

Perinatal Lethality ◽

Golgi Network

ABSTRACT BRUCE is a highly conserved 528-kDa peripheral membrane protein of the trans-Golgi network. Owing to the presence of an N-terminal single baculovirus inhibitor repeat, BRUCE functions as an inhibitor of apoptosis protein and blocks apoptosis when overexpressed. In addition, due to the presence of a C-terminal ubiquitin-conjugating domain, BRUCE can covalently attach ubiquitin to substrates. Here we report the generation and characterization of BRUCE-deficient mice. Complete inactivation of the BRUCE gene resulted in perinatal lethality and growth retardation discernible after embryonic day 14. The growth defect is linked to impaired placental development and may be caused by insufficient oxygen and nutrient transfer across the placenta. Chorioallantoic placentation initiated normally, but the mutant placenta showed an impaired maturation of the labyrinth layer and a significant reduction of the spongiotrophoblast. No evidence for an elevated apoptosis rate was detectable in embryonic and extraembryonic tissues and in knockout fibroblasts. Thus, although BRUCE is broadly expressed in embryonic, extraembryonic, and adult mouse tissues, this bifunctional protein might play a unique role in normal trophoblast differentiation and embryonic survival.

Download Full-text