Identification of Immunosuppressive Drug Targets in Yeast

Cells transfer information from the cell surface to the nucleus via signal transduction pathways. Although much is known about the two ends of such pathways, membrane receptors and nuclear transcription factors, the intermediate steps have remained elusive. The immunosuppressants cyclosporin A (CsA), FK506, and rapamycin inhibit conserved elements of signal transduction cascades. The primary drug targets, the immunophilins cyclophilin and FKBP, and the target of the cyclophilin-CsA and FKBP- FK506 complexes, the phosphatase calcineurin, are highly conserved from yeast to human. Studies on immunosuppressant mechanisms of action are providing insights into signal transduction in both yeast and T lymphocytes. © 1993 Academic Press, Inc.

Duke Scholars

Author Maria Elena Cardenas-Corona Molecular Genetics and Microbiology

Author Joseph Heitman Molecular Genetics and Microbiology