Getting the Message? Native Reactive Electrophiles Pass Two Out of Three Thresholds to be Bona Fide Signaling Mediators

Abstract

Precision cell signaling activities of reactive electrophilic species (RES) are arguably among the most poorly‐understood means to transmit biological messages. Latest research implicates native RES to be a chemically‐distinct subset of endogenous redox signals that influence cell decision making through non‐enzyme‐assisted modifications of specific proteins. Yet, fundamental questions remain regarding the role of RES as bona fide second messengers. Here, we lay out three sets of criteria we feel need to be met for RES to be considered as true cellular signals that directly mediate information transfer by modifying “first‐responding” sensor proteins. We critically assess the available evidence and define the extent to which each criterion has been fulfilled. Finally, we offer some ideas on the future trajectories of the electrophile signaling field taking inspiration from work that has been done to understand canonical signaling mediators. Also see the video abstract here: https://youtu.be/rG7o0clVP0c

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Mar 30, 2018
Source ID
10.1002/bies.201700240

Entities

People

  • Jesse R. Poganik
  • Marcus J. C. Long
  • Yimon Aye

Organizations

  • Alfred P. Sloan Foundation
  • American Heart Association
  • Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation
  • Cornell University
  • National Institute of General Medical Sciences
  • National Science Foundation
  • Office of Naval Research
  • Office of the Director
  • Weill Cornell Medicine

Tags

Readers

  • Computational Modeling and Simulation
  • Molecular Biology and Genetics
  • Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry