Family with Sequence Similarity 107, Member B Human Recombinant
Family with Sequence Similarity 3, Member A Human Recombinant
Family with Sequence Similarity 3, Member B Human Recombinant
Family with Sequence Similarity 3, Member C Human Recombinant
Family with Sequence Similarity 3, Member D Human Recombinant
Family with Sequence Similarity 49, Member B Human Recombinant
Family with Sequence Similarity 50, Member A Human Recombinant
Family with Sequence Similarity 84, Member A Human Recombinant
Family with Sequence Similarity 84, Member B Human Recombinant
The term “Family with Sequence Similarity” refers to groups of proteins or genes that share a significant degree of sequence similarity, indicating a common evolutionary origin. These families are classified based on their sequence homology, structural features, and functional properties. For instance, the Structural Classification of Proteins (SCOP) system classifies protein domains into families based on structural and functional evidence of a common evolutionary ancestor . Similarly, the Protein Information Resource (PIR) SuperFamily (PIRSF) classification system organizes proteins into families and subfamilies based on evolutionary relationships .
Key Biological Properties: Members of a sequence similarity family often share conserved motifs and structural domains that are crucial for their function. These properties include specific amino acid sequences that form functional sites, such as active sites in enzymes or binding sites in receptors.
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: The expression patterns of these families can vary widely. Some families are ubiquitously expressed across multiple tissues, while others are tissue-specific. For example, certain gene families involved in immune responses may be predominantly expressed in immune cells .
Primary Biological Functions: The primary functions of these families can range from enzymatic activities to structural roles. For example, gene families involved in metabolic pathways often encode enzymes that catalyze specific biochemical reactions .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: Some families play critical roles in the immune system. For instance, gene families encoding pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are essential for detecting pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and initiating immune responses .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: Members of a sequence similarity family often interact with other molecules and cells through specific binding partners. These interactions can trigger downstream signaling cascades that regulate various cellular processes .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: For example, receptors in the immune system may bind to ligands on pathogens, leading to the activation of signaling pathways that result in the production of cytokines and other immune mediators .
Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Expression and Activity: The expression and activity of these families are tightly regulated at multiple levels. Transcriptional regulation involves specific transcription factors that bind to promoter regions of genes, while post-translational modifications can alter protein activity, stability, and localization .
Transcriptional Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications: For instance, the MerR family of transcriptional regulators activates gene expression in response to environmental stimuli by binding to DNA and inducing conformational changes .
Biomedical Research: Sequence similarity families are invaluable in biomedical research for understanding disease mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets. For example, studying gene families involved in cancer can reveal insights into tumorigenesis and metastasis .
Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Strategies: These families are also used in the development of diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies. For instance, sequence similarity networks can help identify biomarkers for disease diagnosis and potential drug targets .
Role Throughout the Life Cycle: The role of these families can vary throughout the life cycle, from development to aging and disease. During development, certain gene families are crucial for processes such as cell differentiation and organogenesis .
From Development to Aging and Disease: In aging and disease, changes in the expression and function of these families can contribute to age-related conditions and pathologies. For example, alterations in gene families involved in DNA repair can lead to genomic instability and cancer .