Category: Lab Notes: Cancer Biology
RING Finger Ubiquitin Ligase
RING finger ubiquitin ligases are the largest class of E3 enzymes in the ubiquitin–proteasome system, defined by a zinc‑binding cross‑brace RING domain that positions E2~Ub for direct ubiquitin transfer. They regulate essential cellular processes including cell cycle progression, DNA repair, immunity, and neuronal function. Dysregulation of RING and RBR ligases such as MDM2 and Parkin contributes to cancer and neurodegeneration, while modern PROTAC therapeutics harness CRL4^CRBN and CRL2^VHL complexes to redirect ubiquitination toward disease‑associated proteins.
Cell Cycle and Proliferation Study Tools
Cell‑cycle and proliferation study tools provide essential insights into how cells grow and divide. Techniques such as BrdU and EdU incorporation, flow‑cytometric DNA content analysis, Ki‑67 and phospho‑H3 staining, FUCCI reporters and genetic manipulation allow researchers to measure cell‑cycle phases, DNA synthesis and mitotic activity with high precision.