Targeted Protein Degradation Systems: Controlling Protein Stability Using E3 Ubiquitin Ligases in Eukaryotic Species

Abstract

This review explores various methods for modulating protein stability to achieve target protein degradation, which is a crucial aspect in the study of biological processes and drug design. Thirty years have passed since the introduction of heat-inducible degron cells utilizing the N-end rule, and methods for controlling protein stability using the ubiquitin–proteasome system have moved from academia to industry. This review covers protein stability control methods, from the early days to recent advancements, and discusses the evolution of techniques in this field. This review also addresses the challenges and future directions of protein stability control techniques by tracing their development from the inception of protein stability control methods to the present day.

Keywords

• target protein degradation
• ubiquitin
• ubiquitin proteasome pathway
• E3 ubiquitin ligase
• PROTACs