Ubiquitin Specific Peptidase 17 (USP17)

Repetitive DNA sequences are major components of most eukaryotic genomes. The head-to-tail tandem repetitive sequences, such as microsatellite, minisatellite (variable number of tandem repeats), macrosatellite, and megasatellite DNA, are highly polymorphic, repetitive DNA sequences postulated as making a substantial contribution to genomic instability because of their high mutation rates. The deduced 530-amino acid protein, which is 48% identical to mouse Dub2, contains conserved cys and his domains thought to form the active site of deubiquitinating enzymes. Western blot analysis showed expression of a 60-kD deubiquitinating enzyme. Antisense RNAs for the USP17 mRNA were also transcribed from the rs447 alleles, consistent with the existence of an antisense-transcript-mediated gene expression control for USP17.