Molecular mechanism of selenoprotein P synthesis

• Published in: Biochimica et biophysica acta. General subjects Vol. 1862; no. 11; pp. 2506 - 2510
• Main Authors: Shetty, Sumangala, Copeland, Paul R.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier B.V 01.11.2018
• Subjects: male fertility; mammals; metabolism; SBP2; SECIS; SECISBP2L; Selenium; Selenocysteine; Selenoprotein P; selenoproteins; stop codon; translation (genetics); Selenocysteine; SECIS; Selenium; Selenoprotein P; SECISBP2L; SBP2
• ISSN: 0304-4165; 1872-8006; 1872-8006
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2018.04.011

Selenoprotein synthesis requires the reinterpretation of a UGA stop codon as one that encodes selenocysteine (Sec), a process that requires a set of dedicated translation factors. Among the mammalian selenoproteins, Selenoprotein P (SELENOP) is unique as it contains a selenocysteine-rich domain that requires multiple Sec incorporation events. In this review we elaborate on new data and current models that provide insight into how SELENOP is made. SELENOP synthesis requires a specific set of factors and conditions. As the key protein required for proper selenium distribution, SELENOP stands out as a lynchpin selenoprotein that is essential for male fertility, proper neurologic function and selenium metabolism. •Selenoprotein synthesis requires the reinterpretation of a UGA stop codon as one that encodes selenocysteine (Sec).•Selenoprotein P (SELENOP) is unique as it contains a selenocysteine-rich domain that requires multiple Sec incorporation events.•SELENOP synthesis requires a unique set of factors and RNA structures.•SELENOP is essential for male fertility, proper neurologic function and selenium metabolism.