Relationships Between Molecular Interactions (Nucleotides, Lipids and Proteins) and Structural Features of the Bovine Brain 21‐kDa Protein

Abstract

A cytosolic 21‐kDa protein isolated from bovine brain was demonstrated to bind hydrophobic ligands, particularly phosphatidylethanolamine. It was encountered in several tissues and species; however, its accurate function remained partially unknown. In order to obtain information from its structural features, we built a molecular model which revealed it to possess a nucleotide‐binding site. In the present research, we describe the affinity of the bovine brain 21‐kDa protein for nucleotides, and its association with cytosolic proteins, small GTP‐binding proteins and lipid droplets. Our results suggest that, through its association with small GTP‐binding proteins, the 21‐kDa protein is implicated in signal mechanisms during cell growth and maturation. Copyright © 1994, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved