The proteasome is a multicatalytic proteinase complex with a highly ordered ring-shaped 20S core structure. This core structure is composed of four rings of 28 non-identical subunits: two rings are composed of seven alpha subunits, and two rings are composed of seven beta subunits . PSMB3 is one of these beta subunits and is part of the proteasome B-type family, also known as the T1B family .
The 20S proteasome complex is involved in the ATP-dependent degradation of ubiquitinated proteins. This process is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis by regulating the concentration of specific proteins and degrading misfolded proteins . The proteasome also plays a role in various cellular processes, including the regulation of the cell cycle, modulation of various signaling pathways, and antigen processing for immune responses .
Mutations or dysregulation of the PSMB3 gene have been associated with several diseases, including Cystic Fibrosis and Parkinson’s Disease . The proteasome’s role in degrading misfolded proteins is particularly relevant in neurodegenerative diseases, where the accumulation of misfolded proteins can lead to cellular dysfunction and disease progression .
Recombinant PSMB3 is used in various research applications to study its structure, function, and role in disease. Understanding the mechanisms by which PSMB3 and the proteasome complex operate can provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for diseases associated with proteasome dysfunction .