EIF4G2 siRNA – Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 4 Gamma 2 Isoform 2 (Mouse)

Translation initiation is mediated by specific recognition of the cap structure by eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4F (eIF4F), which is a cap binding protein complex that consists of three subunits: eIF4A, eIF4E and eIF4G. The protein encoded by this gene shares similarity with the C-terminal region of eIF4G, that contains the binding sites for eIF4A and eIF3; eIF4G in addition, contains a binding site for eIF4E at the N-terminus. Unlike eIF4G which supports cap-dependent and independent translation, this gene product functions as a general repressor of translation by forming translationally inactive complexes. Transgene expression of the apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing enzyme (APOBEC-1) causes extensive editing of this mRNA, which could contribute to the potent oncogenesis induced by overexpression of APOBEC-1. In vitro and in vivo studies in human indicate that translation of this mRNA initiates exclusively at a non-AUG (GUG) codon. This also appears to be true for mouse. Two alternatively spliced transcript variants that encode different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

EIF4G2: a general repressor of translation by forming translationally inactive complexes. Appears to play a role in the switch from cap-dependent to IRES-mediated translation during mitosis, apoptosis and viral infection. Interacts with the protein kinases Mnk1 and -2. Binds EIF4A and EIF3. Cleaved by some caspases and viral proteases.

Protein type: RNA-binding; Translation initiation; Translation

Cellular Component: membrane; eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4F complex; cytoplasm

Molecular Function: protein binding; translation factor activity, nucleic acid binding; RNA binding; translation initiation factor activity

Biological Process: regulation of translation; translation; translational initiation; regulation of translational initiation