Function
Farnesyltransferase (FTase) is part of the prenyltransferase group. FTase modifies proteins by adding farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) – an isoprenoid lipid – to a cysteine in a CAAX motif near the C terminal. This addition forms a thioether linkage, makes the protein more hydrophobic and associates it with the membrane. Farnesylated proteins – like those of the Ras family - are involved in cellular signaling[1].
Relevance
FTase inhibitors are being tested as anti-cancer and anti-Progeria agents.
Structural insights
FTase are composed of 2 subunits. is in cyan, is in green. . The and the [2]. Water molecules are shown as red spheres.
3D structures of farnesyltransferase
Farnesyltransferase 3D structures
