Post-Translational Modifications

Phosphorylation

This occurs when a kinase adds phosphate to serine, threonine, tyrosine, or histidine residues; main form of regulation in protein activity.

Dephosphorylation

This is an inverse process that is catalyzed by phosphates.

Lipidation

This is the attachment of a lipid to a protein; regulates cell signaling & targets protein to membrane.

Ubiquitination

This is the attachment of a small protein called ubiquitin to the target protein; targets protein for degradation.

Sumoylation

This is the attachment of SUMO (small, ubiquitin-like) proteins; affects protein localization & activity.

Acetylation

This is the addition of an acetyl group to the e-amine of Lysine residues; it removes the positive charge.

Methylation

This is the attachment of a methyl group to Arginine and Lysine residues; changes their electrostatic properties.

Glycosylation

This is the attachment of sugars to the protein.