Mw. Linhoff et al., Two distinct domains within CIITA mediate self-association: Involvement ofthe GTP-binding and leucine-rich repeat domains, MOL CELL B, 21(9), 2001, pp. 3001-3011
CIITA is the master regulator of class II major histocompatibility complex
gene expression. We present evidence that CIITA can self-associate via two
domains: the C terminus (amino acids 700 to 1130) and the GTP-binding domai
n (amino acids 336 to 702). Heterotypic and homotypic interactions are obse
rved between these two regions. Deletions within the GTP-binding domain tha
t reduce GTP-binding and transactivation function also reduce self-associat
ion. In addition, two leucine residues in the C-terminal leucine-rich repea
t region are critical for self-association as well as function. This study
reveals for the first time a complex pattern of CIITA self-association. The
se interactions are discussed with regard to the apoptosis signaling protei
ns, Apaf-1 and Nod1, which share domain arrangements similar to those of CI
ITA.