Farnesyltransferase (FTase) is part of the prenyltransferase group. FTase modifies proteins by adding farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) – an isoprenoid lipid – to a cysteine near the C terminal. This addition forms a thioether linkage, makes the protein more hydrophobic and associates it with the membrane. Farnesylated proteins – like those of the Ras family - are involved in cellular signaling[1]
.
Relevance
FTase inhibitors are being tested as anti-cancer agents.
Structural insights
FTase are composed of 2 subunits. The β subunit coordinates a Zn atom.
