What is EIF4G1 Protein

      EIF4G1 is a key player in cellular protein synthesis and is of great significance to research in the fields of biomedicine and biotechnology.

      EIF4G1 (eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4 gamma 1) is a multifunctional protein that is complexly integrated into the fabric of cellular translation initiation. At its core, EIF4G1 is a large and modular protein with multiple HEAT repeats that form a helical structure. These repeats play a critical role in mediating protein-protein interactions, demonstrating a role for EIF4G1 as a scaffolding protein in the translation initiation complex.

      The Structure of EIF4G1

      Understanding the complexity of EIF4G1 begins with its structural elements. The architecture of EIF4G1 consists of distinct domains, of which one notable eIF4E-binding domain (4E-BD) is responsible for its interaction with EIF4E. This interaction is key for the recruitment of the EIF4F complex to mRNA, a critical initial step in protein synthesis. The modular nature of EIF4G1 and its HEAT repeats and binding domains emphasize its adaptability in coordinating complex cellular processes.

      HEAT2 domain of eIF4G1 takes different conformations when eIF4G1 binds to eIF4E (Wu, S., et al. 2023) Figure 1. HEAT2 domain of eIF4G1 takes different conformations when eIF4G1 binds to eIF4E (Wu, S., et al. 2023)

      The Function of EIF4G1 Protein

      The main function of EIF4G1 lies in its role in the initiation phase of protein synthesis. As an important component of the EIF4F complex, EIF4G1 promotes the recruitment of ribosomes to mRNA, ensuring efficient translation of genetic information into functional proteins. In addition to its scaffolding function, EIF4G1 is actively involved in the regulation of mRNA scanning and unwinding, which is critical for smooth ribosome progression along the mRNA during translation initiation.

      EIF4G1-Related Diseases

      The link between EIF4G1 and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease, adds an additional layer of significance to its biological role. Genetic mutations in EIF4G1 have been identified in familial cases of Parkinson's disease, highlighting its potential involvement in disease pathogenesis. These mutations disrupt the normal function of EIF4G1, leading to impaired protein synthesis and the formation of toxic protein aggregates.

      EIF4G1 Related Signaling Pathways

      EIF4G1 is involved in signaling pathways, specifically the mTOR signaling pathway. Activation of mTOR phosphorylates EIF4G1, enhancing its interaction with EIF4E and promoting translation initiation. This mechanism links EIF4G1 to cellular nutritional and energy status, emphasizing its role as a sensor that regulates protein synthesis in response to environmental conditions. Furthermore, the involvement of EIF4G1 in integrated stress responses further emphasizes its adaptability in maintaining cellular homeostasis.

      Applications of EIF4G1 in Biomedical Research

      EIF4G1 has prospects beyond its fundamental role in cellular processes, providing valuable insights and applications for biomedical research.

      • Neurodegenerative Diseases

      Studying the role of EIF4G1 in neurodegenerative diseases reveals potential therapeutic targets. Understanding how disruption of EIF4G1 affects Parkinson's disease pathology lays the foundation for developing targeted interventions that address the underlying causes of neurodegeneration.

      • Cancer

      Dysregulation of translation initiation is a hallmark of cancer, making EIF4G1 a compelling subject in oncology research. Research targeting EIF4G1 in cancer may reveal the vulnerabilities of cancer cells, paving the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

      • Drug Development

      EIF4G1 emerges as a potential target for drug development. Small molecules or compounds that modulate EIF4G1 activity could provide precise intervention in diseases where translation initiation plays a critical role, providing a new frontier in drug discovery.

      • Biotechnology Applications

      In biotechnology, understanding and manipulating EIF4G1 could improve protein production efficiency. Exploiting the role of EIF4G1 in translation initiation could optimize bioprocessing for therapeutic protein and enzyme production in industrial settings.

      EIF4G1 transcends its role as a translation initiation factor and becomes a focus for unraveling the complexity of cellular processes and diseases. From its intricate structure to its impact on neurodegenerative diseases and applications in biomedical research, EIF4G1 is a promising subject for scientific exploration and therapeutic innovation.

      Recommended Products for EIF4G1 Protein

      Cat.# Species Product name Source (Host) Tag
      EIF4G1-01H Human Active Recombinant Human EIF4G1 protein, Myc/DDK-tagged HEK293T Myc/DDK
      EIF4G1-28550TH Human Recombinant Human EIF4G1, GST-tagged Wheat Germ GST
      EIF4G1-479H Human Recombinant Human EIF4G1 Mammalian Cell His
      EIF4G1-12383H Human Recombinant Human EIF4G1 protein, His-tagged E.coli His
      EIF4G1-2844H Human Recombinant Human EIF4G1 protein, His-B2M-JD & Myc-tagged E.coli His-B2M-JD & Myc
      EIF4G1-02H Human Recombinant Human EIF4G1 protein, Myc/DDK-tagged HEK293T Myc/DDK
      EIF4G1-477H Human Recombinant Human EIF4G1 Protein (1250-1599 aa), GST-tagged E.coli GST
      EIF4G1-5398H Human Recombinant Human EIF4G1 Protein, Myc/DDK-tagged, C13 and N15-labeled HEK293T Myc/DDK
      EIF4G1-1387H Human Recombinant Human EIF4G1 Protein (1250-1599 aa), His-tagged Yeast His
      Eif4g1-2789M Mouse Recombinant Mouse Eif4g1 Protein, Myc/DDK-tagged HEK293T Myc/DDK

      Reference

      1. Wu, S., Wagner, G. Computational inference of eIF4F complex function and structure in human cancers. bioRxiv. 2023 Aug 11: 2023.08.10.552450.