Regulated intramembrane proteolysis: a control mechanism conserved from bacteria to humans

Regulated intramembrane proteolysis (Rip), a control mechanism, is discussed in this review article. The mechanism is conserved from bacteria to humans. Conceptual convergence is now seen in the cell signaling field. Transmembrane proteins can be cleaved within the plane of the membrane of the cell to let out cytosolic fragments. The fragments can go into the nucleus to manage gene transcription. The mechanism is called Rip. Five proteins known or thought to undergo Rip in animal cells are SREBP, APP, Notch, Ire1 and ATF6, and there are two in bacteria.