Scientists Discover a Molecular Switch That Controls Life Expectancy

The insulin receptor can be controlled by the protein CHIP more efficiently when it is acting alone as opposed to when it is in a paired form, according to current research. CHIP frequently manifests as a homodimer, which is an association of two identical proteins, in conditions of cellular stress and primarily works to eliminate misfolded and faulty proteins. CHIP cleans the cell as a result. This is accomplished by the tiny protein ubiquitin being bound to misfolded proteins by CHIP in conjunction with assistance proteins. As a result, the cell recognizes and eliminates damaged proteins. Additionally, CHIP manages the transmission of insulin receptor signal. In order to stop the activation of genes that lengthen life, CHIP attaches to the receptor and breaks it down. Researchers from the University of Cologne have now demonstrated that CHIP may also label itself with ubiquitin, blocking the formation of its dimer, through tests involving human cells and the nematode Caenorhabditis e...