The Biosynthesis and Folding of Oily Peptide Chains

A newly synthesized peptide goes through several biosynthetic steps before achieving the right structure to perform the right function. Despite greatly expanded understanding on membrane protein trafficking between organelles, the molecular mechanisms underlying the biogenic steps of membrane proteins, especially the folding pathways, within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) remain largely unknown. This chapter mainly focuses on the biogenesis of membrane proteins and secreted proteins, and covers current advances in understanding the folding and other biosynthetic steps in the ER and the Golgi apparatus. We also discuss protein misfolding diseases and the pharmacological strategies to rescue the defective biosynthesis of the misfolded proteins.