What is it about?
Protein citrullination is a process where certain amino acids in proteins are changed into citrulline by special enzymes called peptidyl arginine deiminases. This modification is important because it can change the shape and function of proteins, including those involved in gene regulation. Recently, scientists have become more interested in how citrullination affects gene activity. Research has made quick progress in understanding how this modification helps organize DNA and control which genes are turned on or off. In this review, we give an overview of the key functions of protein citrullination and highlight recent findings on how it affects gene regulation, especially in combination with other protein changes.
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Why is it important?
Citrullination plays a significant role in regulating gene expression and modifying protein function, impacting cellular processes like growth, differentiation, and response to stress. This post-translational modification is linked to diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and cancer, making its study vital for developing new diagnostic tools, treatments, and preventive strategies. Reviewing recent progress in citrullination research contributes to both basic science and clinical applications, providing valuable insights into how this modification influences health and disease.
Perspectives
Deeper research into citrullination is essential, and the development of new genetic engineering tools is crucial for advancing studies on this process. These tools will enable more precise manipulation and understanding of citrullination’s role in cellular functions and disease mechanisms.
Lang Rao
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Citrullination in health and disease: From physiological function to gene regulation, Genes & Diseases, July 2025, Tsinghua University Press,
DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2024.101355.
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