MG132

MG132

Chemical structure of MG132

MG132 is a potent, reversible, and cell-permeable proteasome inhibitor. It is widely used in biochemical research to study the ubiquitin-proteasome system and its role in various cellular processes. MG132 is a peptide aldehyde that specifically inhibits the chymotrypsin-like activity of the 26S proteasome complex, leading to the accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins within the cell.

Mechanism of Action

MG132 functions by binding to the active sites of the proteasome, thereby blocking the degradation of proteins that have been tagged for destruction by the ubiquitin system. This inhibition results in the stabilization of proteins that are normally degraded, allowing researchers to study their function and regulation. The accumulation of these proteins can lead to various cellular responses, including apoptosis, making MG132 a valuable tool in cancer research.

Applications in Research

MG132 is extensively used in molecular biology and cell biology to:

• Investigate the role of the proteasome in protein degradation.
• Study the regulation of the cell cycle and apoptosis.
• Analyze the effects of proteasome inhibition on signal transduction pathways.
• Explore the potential therapeutic effects of proteasome inhibitors in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

Safety and Handling

MG132 is a potent inhibitor and should be handled with care. It is typically dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for use in experiments. Researchers should use appropriate protective equipment and follow safety guidelines when working with this compound.

Related Pages

• Proteasome
• Ubiquitin
• Apoptosis
• Cancer research
• Neurodegenerative diseases