Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit F (EIF3F (eIF3f))

Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit F (EIF3F) is a protein that functions as a component of the eIF3 complex, which is critical for the initiation of protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells. The eIF3 complex binds to ribosomal 40S subunits and recruits additional initiation factors to form the 43S preinitiation complex, regulates mRNA recruitment, and ensures proper assembly of the translation machinery. Beyond its canonical role in translation initiation, EIF3F possesses intrinsic deubiquitinase (DUB) activity, especially relevant for modulating the Notch signaling pathway, where it deubiquitinates activated NOTCH1 to promote its nuclear import. EIF3F has also been implicated in cell growth regulation, apoptosis, muscle differentiation, and hypertrophy. Its activity is tightly controlled by post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation and ubiquitination. Alterations or deficiency in EIF3F function can contribute to disease, including muscle wasting (through MAFbx-mediated degradation) and cancer (by impacting cell cycle and apoptosis). While no approved drugs selectively target EIF3F, its unique molecular functions make it a prospective target for future therapeutic intervention in pathologies involving aberrant translation or Notch signaling.

Other names

EIF3FEIF3S5eIF3feIF3-epsiloneIF3-p47Deubiquitinating enzyme eIF3fEukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit 5 (epsilon, 47kDa)MRT67

Inhibitors or modulators could act by altering translation initiation, protein synthesis, or deubiquitinase activity impacting Notch signaling and cell growth. In muscle, modulating eIF3f expression affects MAFbx-mediated ubiquitination that drives muscle atrophy/hypertrophy.