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-Structure paper
| Title | Importin-9 recognizes the winged-helix fold of ETS transcription factors to mediate nuclear import. |
|---|---|
| Journal, issue, pages | Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, Vol. 123, Issue 18, Page e2536763123, Year 2026 |
| Publish date | May 5, 2026 |
Authors | Michael McConville / Kaylee Lankford / Natalia E Bernardes / Abby Walterscheid / Catherine Valadez / Ashley Niesman / Yuh Min Chook / Glen Liszczak / ![]() |
| PubMed Abstract | Protein trafficking between the cytoplasm and the nucleus is a fundamental process in eukaryotic cell biology. While linear nuclear localization signals (NLSs) are well characterized, many nuclear ...Protein trafficking between the cytoplasm and the nucleus is a fundamental process in eukaryotic cell biology. While linear nuclear localization signals (NLSs) are well characterized, many nuclear proteins lack a predictable NLS. Here, we identify the ETS domain, a DNA-binding winged-helix fold, from ETS family transcription factors as a structure-encoded NLS. We show that ETS domains mediate nuclear import through direct nanomolar affinity recognition by IPO9. Cryo-electron microscopy analysis of the EHF:IPO9 complex reveals that the IPO9 wraps around the ETS domain and engages structural features throughout the winged-helix fold. Biochemical studies demonstrate that the ETS domain DNA-binding helix is critical for importin recognition and for NLS activity in mammalian cells. Comparison of IPO9 bound to EHF and the histone H2A:H2B dimer reveals distinct interaction hotspots, illustrating how IPO9 employs unique combinatorial binding surfaces to accommodate structurally diverse cargos. These findings define a unique class of globular NLSs and highlight the adaptability of importins in recognizing distinct protein folds. |
External links | Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A / PubMed:42066049 / PubMed Central |
| Methods | EM (single particle) |
| Resolution | 3.5 Å |
| Structure data | EMDB-75437, PDB-10sm: |
| Source |
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Keywords | NUCLEAR PROTEIN / Nuclear Import / Importin / DNA-binding protein / winged-helix domain |
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