CARMA1BCL10MALT1

CARMA1, BCL10, and MALT1 are proteins that form a critical signaling complex involved in the activation of the transcription factor NF-κB. This complex, often referred to as the CBM complex, plays a pivotal role in immune responses, cell survival, and the development of lymphoid tissues.

CARMA1, also known as CARD11, is a caspase recruitment domain-containing protein that acts as an adapter molecule. It contains a CARD domain that interacts with the CARD domain of BCL10. BCL10, or B-cell lymphoma 10, is a protein that, upon activation, recruits MALT1.

MALT1, or mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma translocation protein 1, is a caspase-like protein that possesses paracaspase activity. This enzymatic activity is crucial for cleaving downstream targets, which ultimately leads to the activation of the IKK complex. The IKK complex then phosphorylates IκB, leading to its degradation and the release of NF-κB. NF-κB can then translocate to the nucleus and regulate the expression of genes involved in inflammation, immunity, and cell proliferation.

Dysregulation of the CARMA1-BCL10-MALT1 complex is implicated in various lymphoproliferative disorders and cancers. Mutations in CARMA1, for instance, can lead to constitutive activation of NF-κB, contributing to the development of certain lymphomas. Understanding the intricate mechanisms of CBM complex assembly and activation is essential for developing targeted therapies for these diseases.

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