Signalling through the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) requires the so-called Smad proteins, and two papers now show how the Smads work. TGF-beta binds to its receptor, which then activates Smad2 to form a transcriptionally active complex with Smad4. But the crystal structure of Smad4 shows that its carboxy-terminal domain can join up with its amino-terminal domain, to prevent the formation of a complex and, hence, to inhibit TGF-beta- mediated signalling.
机构:
Smithsonians Natl Museum Asian Art, Freer Gallery Art & Arthur M Sackler Gallery, Japanese Art, Tokyo, JapanSmithsonians Natl Museum Asian Art, Freer Gallery Art & Arthur M Sackler Gallery, Japanese Art, Tokyo, Japan