Frontiers in Genetics (Aug 2014)

Multifunctional roles of the mammalian CCR4-NOT complex in physiological phenomena

  • Yo-Taro eShirai,
  • Toru eSuzuki,
  • Masahiro eMorita,
  • Masahiro eMorita,
  • Akinori eTakahashi,
  • Tadashi eYamamoto

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fgene.2014.00286
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 5

Abstract

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The CCR4-NOT complex serves as one of the major deadenylases of eukaryotes. Although it was originally identified and characterized in yeast, recent studies have revealed that the CCR4-NOT complex also exerts important functions in mammals, including humans. However, there are some differences in the composition and functions of the CCR4-NOT complex between mammals and yeast. It is noteworthy that each subunit of the CCR4-NOT complex has unique, multifunctional roles and is responsible for various physiological phenomena. This heterogeneity and versatility of the CCR4-NOT complex makes an overall understanding of this complex difficult. Here, we describe the functions of each subunit of the mammalian CCR4-NOT complex and discuss the molecular mechanisms by which it regulates homeostasis in mammals. Furthermore, a possible link between the disruption of the CCR4-NOT complex and various diseases will be discussed. Finally, we propose that the analysis of mice with each CCR4-NOT subunit knocked out is an effective strategy for clarifying its complicated functions and networks in mammals.

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