DnaJ (Hsp40) is the founding member of the J-domain protein family and the primary co-chaperone of the DnaK (Hsp70) chaperone system in E. coli. DnaJ is a modular protein consisting of four domains: an N-terminal J-domain (residues 3-72) that stimulates DnaK ATPase activity via a conserved HPD motif, a glycine/phenylalanine-rich region, a cysteine-rich zinc finger domain (residues 131-209) containing two Zn(2+) centers, and a C-terminal substrate-binding domain. DnaJ functions as a homodimer that binds unfolded or misfolded polypeptides and delivers them to DnaK, stimulating DnaK ATPase activity to form a stable DnaK-substrate complex. Together with GrpE (nucleotide exchange factor), the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system constitutes a chaperone machine essential for protein folding, refolding of stress-denatured proteins, regulation of the heat shock response (via sigma32 inactivation), and initiation of phage lambda and plasmid DNA replication. DnaJ also possesses DnaK-independent chaperone activity dependent on zinc center 1, and thiol-disulfide oxidoreductase activity mediated by its zinc finger cysteines. DnaJ is not an independent foldase but rather a co-chaperone that assists the DnaK folding cycle.
| GO Term | Evidence | Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
|
GO:0005737
cytoplasm
|
IBA
GO_REF:0000033 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: DnaJ is a cytoplasmic protein in E. coli. The IBA annotation is consistent with experimental IDA evidence from PMID:6220698 and UniProt subcellular location annotation. Zylicz et al. (1983) identified DnaJ in minicells and showed it has membrane affinity but is primarily cytoplasmic.
Reason: Well-supported by phylogenetic inference and consistent with direct experimental evidence (IDA from PMID:6220698) and UniProt subcellular location (Cytoplasm).
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:6220698
Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products have been identified in a system of minicells infected with the appropriate transducing lambda phages.
|
|
GO:0042026
protein refolding
|
IBA
GO_REF:0000033 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: DnaJ participates in protein refolding as part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone system. The IBA annotation is well-supported by experimental evidence showing DnaJ involvement in refolding denatured substrates (PMID:7559385, PMID:20953191).
Reason: Core function of DnaJ. The DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system refolds misfolded proteins, and DnaJ is essential for substrate delivery and DnaK activation in this process. Supported by IDA from PMID:7559385 and the unfoldase/refolding work of PMID:20953191.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:7559385
The DnaJ protein of Escherichia coli and the DnaJ-like proteins of eukaryotes are known as molecular chaperones and specific regulators of DnaK-like proteins and are involved in protein folding and renaturation after stress.
PMID:20953191
Hsp70-Hsp40-NEF and possibly Hsp100 are the only known molecular chaperones that can use the energy of ATP to convert stably pre-aggregated polypeptides into natively refolded proteins.
|
|
GO:0051082
unfolded protein binding
|
IBA
GO_REF:0000033 |
MODIFY |
Summary: DnaJ does bind unfolded proteins via its C-terminal domain and delivers them to DnaK. However, GO:0051082 "unfolded protein binding" is being reviewed for obsoletion, and DnaJ is better described as a protein folding chaperone (GO:0044183) since its binding to unfolded proteins is in the context of the chaperone folding cycle, not as an independent binding function. DnaJ is a co-chaperone, not an independent foldase.
Reason: GO:0051082 is under review for obsoletion. DnaJ binds unfolded substrates as part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone cycle, not as an independent unfolded-protein binder. GO:0044183 "protein folding chaperone" better captures this co-chaperone function. Note that GO:0003767 "co-chaperone activity" is obsolete, so GO:0044183 is the pragmatic interim term.
Proposed replacements:
protein folding chaperone
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:12941935
it appears that zinc center II mutant proteins lack a necessary additional interaction site with DnaK, which seems to be crucial for locking-in substrate proteins onto DnaK.
|
|
GO:0045892
negative regulation of DNA-templated transcription
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000108 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: This IEA annotation is logically inferred from the sigma factor antagonist activity annotation (GO:0016989). DnaJ, together with DnaK, inactivates sigma32 by direct binding, thereby negatively regulating heat shock gene transcription (PMID:8599944, PMID:1534276). The inference is sound.
Reason: Logical inference from GO:0016989 sigma factor antagonist activity. DnaJ binds sigma32 directly and cooperates with DnaK to inhibit its transcriptional activity, constituting negative regulation of transcription (PMID:8599944).
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:8599944
DnaK and DnaJ cooperatively inhibit sigma32 activity in heat shock gene transcription and GrpE partially reverses this inhibition.
|
|
GO:0005524
ATP binding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000002 |
REMOVE |
Summary: IEA from InterPro mapping (IPR012724, the DnaJ family). However, DnaJ itself does not bind or hydrolyze ATP. DnaJ stimulates the ATPase activity of DnaK, but the ATP binding is by DnaK, not DnaJ. The InterPro mapping is incorrect for DnaJ specifically.
Reason: DnaJ does not bind ATP. It stimulates the ATPase activity of DnaK (the Hsp70), which is the ATP-binding partner. UniProt does not list ATP binding as a feature of DnaJ, and no experimental evidence supports direct ATP binding by DnaJ. This is an erroneous IEA mapping from the DnaJ family InterPro entry.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:8599944
DnaJ, through rapid association with sigma32 and stimulation of hydrolysis of DnaK-bound ATP, mediates efficient binding of DnaK to sigma32 in the presence of ATP
|
|
GO:0005737
cytoplasm
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000120 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IEA annotation from UniProt subcellular location mapping. Consistent with experimental IDA evidence (PMID:6220698) and IBA annotation. DnaJ is a cytoplasmic protein.
Reason: Correctly maps UniProt subcellular location annotation. Redundant with but consistent with the IBA and IDA annotations for the same term.
|
|
GO:0006260
DNA replication
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000043 |
KEEP AS NON CORE |
Summary: IEA from UniProt keyword mapping (KW-0235 "DNA replication"). DnaJ participates in phage lambda and plasmid DNA replication as part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone system, which disassembles the replication initiation complex (PMID:1361234, PMID:3889001). This is a well-established non-core function of DnaJ.
Reason: DnaJ involvement in DNA replication is indirect -- it functions as a chaperone to disassemble replication initiation complexes (e.g., lambda P protein release from the preprimosomal complex). This is a downstream application of its chaperone activity, not a core biochemical function. Supported by PMID:1361234 and PMID:2144273.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:1361234
a set of Escherichia coli heat shock proteins termed the Hsp70 complex--DnaK, DnaJ, and GrpE--act with ATP to release lambda P protein from the nucleo-protein complex, freeing the DnaB helicase for its DNA-unwinding reaction.
|
|
GO:0006457
protein folding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000002 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IEA from InterPro mapping. DnaJ participates in protein folding as part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone system. This is a core biological process annotation.
Reason: Protein folding is a core biological process for DnaJ. Consistent with IDA evidence from PMID:9103205 and PMID:7559385.
|
|
GO:0008270
zinc ion binding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000120 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IEA from UniProt keyword/rule mapping. DnaJ binds 2 Zn(2+) ions per monomer via its cysteine-rich zinc finger domain (residues 131-209). Well-supported by experimental evidence (PMID:8662861, PMID:11732919, PMID:12941935).
Reason: Zinc binding is a well-established structural feature of DnaJ. UniProt documents 8 zinc-coordinating cysteine residues. Consistent with multiple IDA annotations.
|
|
GO:0009408
response to heat
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000002 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IEA from InterPro mapping. DnaJ is a heat shock protein induced by heat stress under control of the HtpR regulatory protein. It participates in the heat shock response both as a chaperone that refolds denatured proteins and as a regulator of sigma32.
Reason: Well-supported. DnaJ is a classic heat shock protein (HSP40). Consistent with IMP from PMID:2144273 and IEP from PMID:8349564.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:2144273
dnaJ-insertion mutants did not grow as well as the wild type at temperatures above 30 degrees C
|
|
GO:0031072
heat shock protein binding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000002 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IEA from InterPro (IPR001305, the DnaJ cysteine-rich domain). DnaJ directly binds DnaK (Hsp70) via its J-domain and zinc finger region. This is well-established experimentally (PMID:9860950, PMID:10521435, PMID:22065753). However, the term "heat shock protein binding" is quite vague. The more specific GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding" is already annotated with IPI evidence.
Reason: While GO:0051087 is more specific and already annotated, this broader IEA annotation is not incorrect. DnaJ binds DnaK (Hsp70), which is a heat shock protein. The IEA mapping from InterPro is reasonable.
|
|
GO:0046872
metal ion binding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000043 |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IEA from UniProt keyword mapping (KW-0479 "Metal-binding"). DnaJ binds zinc ions. This is a broad parent term; the more specific GO:0008270 "zinc ion binding" is already annotated with IDA evidence.
Reason: Not wrong but very general. The more specific zinc ion binding annotation exists. Acceptable as an IEA that is broader than the experimentally determined term.
|
|
GO:0051082
unfolded protein binding
|
IEA
GO_REF:0000120 |
MODIFY |
Summary: IEA from combined automated annotation. DnaJ binds unfolded substrates via its C-terminal domain, but this binding is in the context of the chaperone cycle. Same reasoning as the IBA annotation for GO:0051082 -- should be modified to GO:0044183.
Reason: GO:0051082 is under review for obsoletion. DnaJ binds unfolded proteins as part of its co-chaperone function in the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE folding cycle. GO:0044183 "protein folding chaperone" is the appropriate interim replacement.
Proposed replacements:
protein folding chaperone
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:10521435 Structural features required for the interaction of the Hsp7... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Demonstrates structural features required for DnaK-DnaJ interaction. DnaJ binds DnaK via its J-domain (stimulating ATPase) and zinc finger region (locking substrates onto DnaK). This is better captured by GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding" which is already annotated.
Reason: "Protein binding" is uninformative per curation guidelines. The interaction with DnaK is specifically a chaperone-cochaperone interaction. GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding" is already annotated for this interaction (PMID:9103205) and is the appropriate specific term.
Proposed replacements:
protein-folding chaperone binding
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:10521435
Structural features required for the interaction of the Hsp70 molecular chaperone DnaK with its cochaperone DnaJ.
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:15690043 Interaction network containing conserved and essential prote... |
MARK AS OVER ANNOTATED |
Summary: IPI with MalT (P06993) and DnaK (P0A6Y8) from a large-scale interaction study. The MalT interaction could represent a substrate relationship or a regulatory interaction. Generic protein binding is uninformative but large-scale interaction data supports the physical interaction.
Reason: Large-scale interaction study. "Protein binding" is uninformative. The MalT interaction likely represents a substrate or regulatory relationship but is not well-characterized enough to assign a more specific term.
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:18394994 Monitoring protein conformation along the pathway of chapero... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Study monitoring protein conformation along the pathway of chaperonin-assisted folding. The DnaJ-DnaK interaction is well-established and is better represented by GO:0051087.
Reason: "Protein binding" is uninformative. This DnaK interaction is a chaperone-cochaperone interaction better captured by GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding".
Proposed replacements:
protein-folding chaperone binding
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:19439666 Solution conformation of wild-type E. coli Hsp70 (DnaK) chap... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Solution conformation study of DnaK complexed with ADP and substrate. Another instance of the DnaJ-DnaK chaperone interaction.
Reason: "Protein binding" is uninformative. DnaJ-DnaK interaction is a core chaperone- cochaperone relationship, better annotated as GO:0051087.
Proposed replacements:
protein-folding chaperone binding
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:22065753 Heat shock protein 70 kDa chaperone/DnaJ cochaperone complex... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Study of the dynamic interface between Hsp70/DnaJ cochaperone complex. Further evidence of the DnaJ-DnaK chaperone interaction.
Reason: "Protein binding" is uninformative. The DnaJ-DnaK dynamic interface is a chaperone-cochaperone interaction, better captured by GO:0051087.
Proposed replacements:
protein-folding chaperone binding
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:24561554 The binary protein-protein interaction landscape of Escheric... |
MARK AS OVER ANNOTATED |
Summary: IPI with MalT (P06993) from a large-scale binary protein-protein interaction study of E. coli. Similar to PMID:15690043, this is a high-throughput interaction dataset.
Reason: Large-scale interaction study. "Protein binding" is uninformative. The MalT interaction is not well-characterized enough to assign a specific functional term.
|
|
GO:0006457
protein folding
|
IDA
PMID:9103205 Crystal structure of the nucleotide exchange factor GrpE bou... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA annotation from CAFA. PMID:9103205 describes the crystal structure of GrpE bound to the DnaK ATPase domain. While this paper provides insight into the DnaK/GrpE nucleotide exchange mechanism relevant to the chaperone cycle, it does not directly assay DnaJ protein folding activity. However, protein folding is well-established for DnaJ from other sources (PMID:7559385).
Reason: Protein folding is a core function of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system. While PMID:9103205 focuses on the GrpE-DnaK structure, DnaJ involvement in protein folding is well-supported by other experimental evidence (PMID:7559385).
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:7559385
The DnaJ protein of Escherichia coli and the DnaJ-like proteins of eukaryotes are known as molecular chaperones and specific regulators of DnaK-like proteins and are involved in protein folding and renaturation after stress.
|
|
GO:0032991
protein-containing complex
|
IDA
PMID:9103205 Crystal structure of the nucleotide exchange factor GrpE bou... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from CAFA. PMID:9103205 describes the GrpE-DnaK complex structure. DnaJ forms part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone complex. However, GO:0032991 "protein-containing complex" is extremely general and not very informative.
Reason: DnaJ is part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone complex. While very general, this CC annotation is not wrong. DnaJ forms homodimers and interacts with DnaK and GrpE as part of the chaperone machine.
|
|
GO:0051082
unfolded protein binding
|
IDA
PMID:9103205 Crystal structure of the nucleotide exchange factor GrpE bou... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IDA from CAFA citing the GrpE-DnaK crystal structure paper. DnaJ does bind unfolded substrates, but PMID:9103205 does not directly demonstrate this. Regardless of the reference, GO:0051082 should be modified to GO:0044183 as part of the obsoletion project, since DnaJ binding to unfolded proteins is in the context of chaperone activity.
Reason: GO:0051082 is under review for obsoletion. DnaJ binding to unfolded substrates occurs in the context of the chaperone folding cycle. GO:0044183 "protein folding chaperone" is the appropriate interim replacement.
Proposed replacements:
protein folding chaperone
|
|
GO:0051087
protein-folding chaperone binding
|
IPI
PMID:9103205 Crystal structure of the nucleotide exchange factor GrpE bou... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8) from CAFA. DnaJ binds the protein-folding chaperone DnaK. While PMID:9103205 is about the GrpE-DnaK structure, the DnaJ-DnaK interaction is well-established. This is an appropriate and informative MF annotation.
Reason: DnaJ binds DnaK, which is a protein-folding chaperone. This is a core function of DnaJ as a co-chaperone. Well-supported by extensive experimental evidence (PMID:9860950, PMID:10521435, PMID:22065753).
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:9860950
Chaperones of the Hsp70 family bind to unfolded or partially folded polypeptides to facilitate many cellular processes. ATP hydrolysis and substrate binding, the two key molecular activities of this chaperone, are modulated by the cochaperone DnaJ.
|
|
GO:0065003
protein-containing complex assembly
|
IDA
PMID:9103205 Crystal structure of the nucleotide exchange factor GrpE bou... |
KEEP AS NON CORE |
Summary: IDA from CAFA. DnaJ participates in the assembly of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone complex and also in the assembly/disassembly of replication initiation complexes. While somewhat general, DnaJ does facilitate complex assembly as part of its chaperone function.
Reason: Complex assembly is a consequence of DnaJ chaperone activity rather than a core independent function. DnaJ facilitates DnaK-substrate complex formation and disassembly of replication complexes as part of its chaperone cycle.
|
|
GO:0005829
cytosol
|
IDA
PMID:6220698 Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products: synthesis in ... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Zylicz et al. (1983) identified DnaJ in minicells. DnaJ is primarily a cytoplasmic/cytosolic protein. The cytosol annotation is appropriate and consistent with UniProt subcellular location.
Reason: Experimentally supported localization. DnaJ is a soluble cytoplasmic protein.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:6220698
Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products have been identified in a system of minicells
|
|
GO:0043335
protein unfolding
|
IDA
PMID:20953191 The kinetic parameters and energy cost of the Hsp70 chaperon... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Sharma et al. (2010) demonstrated that the Hsp70 (DnaK)-Hsp40 (DnaJ)-NEF (GrpE) system acts as a polypeptide unfoldase, converting stably misfolded proteins into intermediates that spontaneously refold to native state. DnaJ acts upstream of or within this process by delivering substrates to DnaK.
Reason: The DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system functions as an unfoldase to convert misfolded proteins into refoldable intermediates. DnaJ is essential to this process. Supported by direct experimental evidence from PMID:20953191.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:20953191
one Hsp70 molecule consumed five ATPs to effectively unfold a single misfolded protein into an intermediate that, upon chaperone dissociation, spontaneously refolded to the native state
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:18995833 Molecular basis for regulation of the heat shock transcripti... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IPI with sigma32 (P0AGB3). Rodriguez et al. (2008) identified two distinct binding sites in sigma32 for DnaK and DnaJ. DnaJ binding destabilizes a distant region of sigma32. This is a functionally important interaction for heat shock regulation. Better captured by GO:0016989 "sigma factor antagonist activity" which is already annotated.
Reason: "Protein binding" is uninformative. The DnaJ-sigma32 interaction represents sigma factor antagonist activity (GO:0016989), already annotated from PMID:8599944. Alternatively, GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding" could apply if considering sigma32 as a chaperone substrate.
Proposed replacements:
protein-folding chaperone binding
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:18995833
Here we identified two distinct sites in sigma(32) as binding sites for DnaK and DnaJ. DnaJ binding destabilizes a distant region of sigma(32) in close spatial vicinity of the DnaK-binding site
|
|
GO:0015035
protein-disulfide reductase activity
|
IDA
PMID:11732919 Zinc fingers and thiol-disulfide oxidoreductase activities o... |
KEEP AS NON CORE |
Summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Tang and Wang (2001) showed DnaJ possesses reductase and oxidase activity mediated by the -C183PHC186- motif in zinc center 2. The C-terminal fragment (Q181-R376) shows full enzymatic activity. This is a secondary function dependent on the zinc finger cysteines.
Reason: Experimentally demonstrated (PMID:11732919) but represents a secondary, non-core function of DnaJ. The thiol-disulfide oxidoreductase activity is mediated by the zinc finger cysteines and is distinct from the primary co-chaperone function. The physiological significance in vivo remains unclear.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:11732919
DnaJ shows reductase activity and oxidase activity but little, if any, isomerase activity. The reductase activity is reversibly inhibited by EDTA. Zn2 is important for the enzymatic activity, and only -C(183)PHC(186)- among the four motifs of -CXXC- functions as the active site of the enzyme.
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:9860950 Interaction of the Hsp70 molecular chaperone, DnaK, with its... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Suh et al. (1998) provided genetic and biochemical evidence that DnaJ binds to at least two sites on DnaK: under the ATPase domain and near the substrate-binding pocket. This is the foundational DnaK-DnaJ interaction paper. Better captured by GO:0051087.
Reason: "Protein binding" is uninformative. This key paper characterizes the DnaJ-DnaK co-chaperone interaction. GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding" is the appropriate specific term.
Proposed replacements:
protein-folding chaperone binding
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:9860950
By using both genetic and biochemical approaches, we provide evidence that DnaJ binds to at least two sites on the Escherichia coli Hsp70 family member DnaK
|
|
GO:0016989
sigma factor antagonist activity
|
IDA
PMID:8599944 A cycle of binding and release of the DnaK, DnaJ and GrpE ch... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Gamer et al. (1996) demonstrated that DnaK and DnaJ cooperatively inhibit sigma32 transcriptional activity. DnaJ binds free sigma32 with a Kd of 20 nM and mediates efficient binding of DnaK to sigma32. This is a well-established regulatory function of the DnaK/DnaJ system.
Reason: Well-supported by direct experimental evidence. DnaJ binds sigma32 and cooperates with DnaK to inhibit its transcriptional activity. This is an important regulatory function, though it represents the co-chaperone acting on a specific native substrate (sigma32) rather than an independent molecular function.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:8599944
DnaJ and DnaK bind free, but not RNA polymerase-bound, sigma32 with dissociation constants of 20 nM and 5 muM respectively.
PMID:8599944
DnaK and DnaJ cooperatively inhibit sigma32 activity in heat shock gene transcription and GrpE partially reverses this inhibition.
|
|
GO:0005515
protein binding
|
IPI
PMID:1534276 Physical interaction between heat shock proteins DnaK, DnaJ,... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IPI with sigma32 (P0AGB3). Gamer et al. (1992) demonstrated physical interaction between DnaK, DnaJ, GrpE and sigma32 in vivo, with DnaJ-sigma32 association being distinct from DnaK-sigma32 interaction (resistant to ATP). This is better captured by the sigma factor antagonist activity annotation.
Reason: "Protein binding" is uninformative. The DnaJ-sigma32 interaction represents a functionally characterized regulatory interaction. GO:0016989 "sigma factor antagonist activity" is already annotated for this function.
Proposed replacements:
sigma factor antagonist activity
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:1534276
an interaction of DnaJ with sigma 32 exists that is distinguishable from an interaction of DnaK and GrpE with sigma 32: addition of ATP disrupts the association of DnaK and GrpE with sigma 32, but not the association of DnaJ with sigma 32.
|
|
GO:0009408
response to heat
|
IMP
PMID:2144273 Isolation and characterization of dnaJ null mutants of Esche... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IMP from EcoCyc. Sell et al. (1990) showed that dnaJ null mutants did not grow well above 30C, formed progressively smaller colonies at higher temperatures, and could not grow at 43C. This demonstrates DnaJ is required for growth at elevated temperatures, directly supporting response to heat.
Reason: Direct mutant phenotype evidence. DnaJ null mutants are heat-sensitive, demonstrating DnaJ is essential for the heat shock response above 42C.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:2144273
dnaJ-insertion mutants did not grow as well as the wild type at temperatures above 30 degrees C, although they blocked lambda DNA replication at all temperatures. The dnaJ-insertion mutants formed progressively smaller colonies at higher temperatures, up to 42 degrees C, and did not form colonies at 43 degrees C.
|
|
GO:0016032
viral process
|
IDA
PMID:1361234 Activity of the Hsp70 chaperone complex--DnaK, DnaJ, and Grp... |
KEEP AS NON CORE |
Summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Hoffmann et al. (1992) demonstrated that the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone complex is required for initiating phage lambda DNA replication by sequestering and releasing lambda P protein from the preprimosomal complex. DnaJ forms an ATP-dependent ternary complex with DnaK and lambda P.
Reason: DnaJ participates in phage lambda DNA replication as part of the chaperone system that releases lambda P protein. This is a well-established but non-core function representing the chaperone system being co-opted by phage.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:1361234
We have discovered an ATP-dependent ternary interaction between P, DnaK, and DnaJ; this P.DnaK.DnaJ complex is dissociated by GrpE.
|
|
GO:0016032
viral process
|
IMP
PMID:2144273 Isolation and characterization of dnaJ null mutants of Esche... |
KEEP AS NON CORE |
Summary: IMP from EcoCyc. Sell et al. (1990) showed that dnaJ null mutants blocked lambda phage growth at all temperatures. None of the suppressor mutations that restored bacterial growth also restored lambda phage propagation.
Reason: DnaJ is required for phage lambda DNA replication. Mutant phenotype evidence is strong (PMID:2144273). Non-core because this is the phage co-opting the host chaperone system.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:2144273
they blocked lambda DNA replication at all temperatures...None of these suppressor mutations restored the ability of the host to propagate phage lambda.
|
|
GO:0016032
viral process
|
IDA
PMID:3889001 Purification and properties of the dnaJ replication protein ... |
KEEP AS NON CORE |
Summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Zylicz et al. (1985) purified DnaJ and showed it is required at a very early step in lambda DNA replication using an in vitro complementation assay. This is the original biochemical characterization of DnaJ function.
Reason: Historical paper demonstrating DnaJ function in lambda DNA replication. Non-core as this is phage co-opting host chaperone function.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:3889001
we have shown that the dnaJ protein is required at a very early step in the DNA replication process.
|
|
GO:0042803
protein homodimerization activity
|
IDA
PMID:3889001 Purification and properties of the dnaJ replication protein ... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Zylicz et al. (1985) determined that DnaJ has a native Mr of 76,000 under non-denaturing conditions versus 37,000 under denaturing conditions, indicating it exists as a homodimer. UniProt confirms DnaJ is a homodimer.
Reason: Experimentally demonstrated. DnaJ is a homodimer with each subunit of approximately 37 kDa. The homodimeric state is a structural property confirmed by biochemical analysis.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:3889001
a basic (pI 8.5), yet hydrophobic, protein of Mr 37,000 and 76,000 under denaturing and native conditions, respectively
|
|
GO:0009408
response to heat
|
IEP
PMID:8349564 Characterization of twenty-six new heat shock genes of Esche... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IEP from EcoliWiki. Chuang and Blattner (1993) characterized heat shock genes including DnaJ, showing heat-induced expression kinetics similar to other major heat shock proteins (DnaK, GroEL, GroES). DnaJ expression is induced by heat shock.
Reason: DnaJ is a well-known heat shock protein (HSP40) induced by heat stress. Expression evidence is consistent with IMP evidence from PMID:2144273 and UniProt annotation of heat-shock induction under HtpR control.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:8349564
In vivo expression kinetics of seven of eight examined new proteins were found to be similar to those of the four most studied heat shock proteins, DnaK, DnaJ, GroEL (MopA), and GroES (MopB).
|
|
GO:0006260
DNA replication
|
IMP
PMID:2144273 Isolation and characterization of dnaJ null mutants of Esche... |
KEEP AS NON CORE |
Summary: IMP from EcoliWiki. Sell et al. (1990) showed dnaJ null mutants blocked lambda DNA replication at all temperatures. DnaJ is required for the initiation of phage lambda DNA replication as part of the chaperone system.
Reason: DnaJ involvement in DNA replication (particularly phage lambda) is well-established but represents the chaperone system being co-opted for replication initiation, not a core biochemical function.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:2144273
they blocked lambda DNA replication at all temperatures
|
|
GO:0008270
zinc ion binding
|
IDA
PMID:8662861 Structure-function analysis of the zinc finger region of the... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Banecki et al. (1996) demonstrated that two Zn(II) ions interact with each DnaJ monomer using quantitative zinc release assays and atomic absorption. The zinc finger region is important for DnaK-substrate complex stabilization.
Reason: Direct experimental demonstration of zinc binding. DnaJ has two zinc centers with distinct functional roles (PMID:8662861, PMID:12941935).
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:8662861
Quantitation of the released Zn(II) ions, upon challenge with p-hydroxymercuriphenylsulfonic acid, and by atomic absorption showed that two Zn(II) ions interact with each monomer of DnaJ.
|
|
GO:0016020
membrane
|
IDA
PMID:3889001 Purification and properties of the dnaJ replication protein ... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Zylicz et al. (1985) purified DnaJ from the membrane fraction of an overproducing strain. DnaJ is described as hydrophobic and membrane-associated. However, DnaJ is primarily a cytoplasmic/cytosolic protein. The membrane association may be due to DnaJ interacting with membrane-associated substrates or its hydrophobic Gly/Phe-rich region.
Reason: DnaJ was purified from the membrane fraction and shown to have membrane affinity. UniProt lists subcellular location as Cytoplasm, but early studies consistently found membrane association (PMID:3889001, PMID:6220698). This likely represents a secondary localization or substrate interaction.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:3889001
we purified the dnaJ protein to homogeneity from the membrane fraction of an overproducing strain of bacteria. The purified dnaJ protein was shown to be a basic (pI 8.5), yet hydrophobic, protein
|
|
GO:0008270
zinc ion binding
|
IDA
PMID:11985624 Systematic search for zinc-binding proteins in Escherichia c... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Katayama et al. (2002) performed a systematic search for zinc-binding proteins in E. coli using radioactive Zn(II) binding assays. DnaJ was identified as a known zinc-binding protein in this screen.
Reason: Confirms DnaJ zinc binding by an independent experimental approach. Consistent with other IDA evidence for zinc ion binding (PMID:8662861).
|
|
GO:0005737
cytoplasm
|
IDA
PMID:6220698 Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products: synthesis in ... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Zylicz et al. (1983) identified DnaJ in minicells and showed it has membrane affinity. The cytoplasm annotation is appropriate as DnaJ is primarily cytoplasmic. Consistent with IBA and IEA annotations.
Reason: Direct experimental evidence. DnaJ identified in minicells as a cytoplasmic protein with membrane affinity (PMID:6220698).
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:6220698
Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products have been identified in a system of minicells infected with the appropriate transducing lambda phages.
|
|
GO:0016020
membrane
|
IDA
PMID:6220698 Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products: synthesis in ... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Zylicz et al. (1983) showed both DnaJ and DnaK are membrane-bound using equilibrium sedimentation in metrizamide density gradients.
Reason: Experimentally demonstrated membrane association. DnaJ shows membrane affinity, consistent with its hydrophobic character and membrane fraction purification (PMID:3889001).
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:6220698
Equilibrium sedimentation of minicell lysates in metrizamide density gradients has revealed that both these host proteins, indispensable for lambda DNA replication, are membrane-bound.
|
|
GO:0003756
protein disulfide isomerase activity
|
IDA
PMID:7559385 A novel function of Escherichia coli chaperone DnaJ. Protein... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. de Crouy-Chanel et al. (1995) showed DnaJ catalyzes protein disulfide formation, reduction, and isomerization (refolding of randomly oxidized RNase). However, Tang and Wang (2001, PMID:11732919) found that DnaJ shows reductase and oxidase activity but "little, if any, isomerase activity." The isomerase annotation may be an over-interpretation.
Reason: While PMID:7559385 initially reported disulfide isomerase activity, the more detailed follow-up study (PMID:11732919) found DnaJ has "little, if any, isomerase activity" and primarily shows reductase and oxidase activities. GO:0015035 "protein-disulfide reductase activity" is already annotated and is the more accurate term. The isomerase activity claim was not confirmed.
Proposed replacements:
protein-disulfide reductase activity
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:11732919
DnaJ shows reductase activity and oxidase activity but little, if any, isomerase activity.
PMID:7559385
DnaJ, like thioredoxin, protein-disulfide isomerase, and DsbA, possesses an active dithiol/disulfide group and catalyzes protein disulfide formation (oxidative renaturation of reduced RNase), reduction (reduction of insulin disulfides), and isomerization (refolding of randomly oxidized RNase).
|
|
GO:0006457
protein folding
|
IDA
PMID:7559385 A novel function of Escherichia coli chaperone DnaJ. Protein... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. de Crouy-Chanel et al. (1995) demonstrated DnaJ involvement in protein folding and renaturation after stress. This is a core function.
Reason: Core biological process for DnaJ. Well-supported experimental evidence.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:7559385
The DnaJ protein of Escherichia coli and the DnaJ-like proteins of eukaryotes are known as molecular chaperones and specific regulators of DnaK-like proteins and are involved in protein folding and renaturation after stress.
|
|
GO:0008270
zinc ion binding
|
IMP
PMID:12941935 The roles of the two zinc binding sites in DnaJ. |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IMP from EcoliWiki. Linke et al. (2003) showed that mutating zinc-coordinating cysteines to serine in either zinc center 1 (C144S/C147S/C197S/C200S) or zinc center 2 (C161S/C164S/C183S/C186S) had distinct functional effects, demonstrating the importance of zinc binding for DnaJ activity.
Reason: Mutant phenotype evidence confirming the functional importance of zinc binding. Zinc center 1 is required for DnaK-independent chaperone activity, while zinc center 2 is essential for DnaK interaction and overall function.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:12941935
in the absence of zinc center I, the autonomous, DnaK-independent chaperone activity of DnaJ is dramatically reduced...The DnaJ zinc center II, on the other hand, was found to be absolutely essential for the in vivo and in vitro function of DnaJ.
|
|
GO:0042026
protein refolding
|
IDA
PMID:7559385 A novel function of Escherichia coli chaperone DnaJ. Protein... |
ACCEPT |
Summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. de Crouy-Chanel et al. (1995) demonstrated DnaJ involvement in protein renaturation (refolding) after stress, including refolding of randomly oxidized RNase. This is a core function of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system.
Reason: Core function. DnaJ participates in refolding of stress-denatured proteins as part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone system. Experimentally demonstrated.
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:7559385
DnaJ-like proteins of eukaryotes are known as molecular chaperones and specific regulators of DnaK-like proteins and are involved in protein folding and renaturation after stress.
|
|
GO:0051082
unfolded protein binding
|
IDA
PMID:7559385 A novel function of Escherichia coli chaperone DnaJ. Protein... |
MODIFY |
Summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. de Crouy-Chanel et al. (1995) showed DnaJ binds unfolded proteins as part of its chaperone function. However, GO:0051082 is under review for obsoletion. DnaJ binding to unfolded substrates is part of the chaperone cycle, not an independent binding function.
Reason: GO:0051082 is under review for obsoletion. DnaJ binds unfolded proteins in the context of co-chaperone activity. GO:0044183 "protein folding chaperone" is the appropriate interim replacement, capturing the functional context of this binding.
Proposed replacements:
protein folding chaperone
Supporting Evidence:
PMID:7559385
DnaJ, like thioredoxin, protein-disulfide isomerase, and DsbA, possesses an active dithiol/disulfide group and catalyzes protein disulfide formation
|
Exported on March 22, 2026 at 02:51 AM
Organism: Escherichia coli
Sequence:
MAKQDYYEILGVSKTAEEREIRKAYKRLAMKYHPDRNQGDKEAEAKFKEIKEAYEVLTDSQKRAAYDQYGHAAFEQGGMGGGGFGGGADFSDIFGDVFGDIFGGGRGRQRAARGADLRYNMELTLEEAVRGVTKEIRIPTLEECDVCHGSGAKPGTQPQTCPTCHGSGQVQMRQGFFAVQQTCPHCQGRGTLIKDPCNKCHGHGRVERSKTLSVKIPAGVDTGDRIRLAGEGEAGEHGAPAGDLYVQVQVKQHPIFEREGNNLYCEVPINFAMAALGGEIEVPTLDGRVKLKVPGETQTGKLFRMRGKGVKSVRGGAQGDLLCRVVVETPVGLNERQKQLLQELQESFGGPTGEHNSPRSKSFFDGVKKFFDDLTR
I begin with the InterPro architecture. The N-terminus carries IPR036869 (Chaperone J-domain superfamily, residues 1–112) and a canonical IPR001623 J-domain from residues 4–81, reinforced by the IPR018253 conserved site at residues 47–66 that encodes the invariant HPD catalytic triad. This J-domain is the hallmark of Hsp40/J-domain cochaperones and causes stimulation of Hsp70 ATPase activity when it binds client-loaded substrates. The central-to-C-terminal half is defined by IPR008971 (HSP40/DnaJ peptide-binding superfamily, residues 111–341) and IPR002939 (Chaperone DnaJ, C-terminal domain, residues 117–330), establishing a substrate-binding platform that captures non-native polypeptides. Inserted within this region is IPR001305 (Heat shock protein DnaJ, cysteine-rich domain, residues 131–209) and its IPR036410 superfamily, a zinc-binding CRD that stabilizes the fold and enhances client recognition and cochaperone assembly. The full-length signature IPR012724 (Chaperone DnaJ family, residues 2–370) confirms a complete DnaJ-type cochaperone comprising an N-terminal J-domain followed by a CRD and C-terminal peptide-binding module—an ordered arrangement that couples client capture to Hsp70 activation.
This domain layout dictates molecular function. The J-domain’s HPD motif directly accelerates the ATP hydrolysis cycle of Hsp70, while the C-terminal peptide-binding region and CRD provide avid, multivalent client engagement. Together they produce a cochaperone that binds unfolded or partially folded proteins and stimulates Hsp70’s ATPase to drive high-affinity substrate trapping. These features justify two molecular functions: unfolded protein binding (the substrate-binding and CRD modules cause selective affinity for non-native polypeptides) and stimulation of Hsp70’s ATPase activity via the J-domain.
From function to process, this architecture drives protein folding and quality control during cellular stress. By recruiting and activating Hsp70 and handing off clients through its peptide-binding and CRD modules, the protein promotes productive folding cycles and triage pathways central to proteostasis. This mechanistic role situates it in the broader biological process of protein folding and heat-stress adaptation.
Cellular location follows from the soluble, modular nature of the domains and the absence of transmembrane regions or secretion signals in this architecture. DnaJ-class cochaperones operate where nascent chains and stress-denatured proteins accumulate—within the bacterial cytoplasm—supporting a cytoplasmic localization.
Mechanistically, the N-terminal J-domain binds and activates the cytosolic Hsp70 system, while the CRD and C-terminal domains concentrate non-native substrates. I hypothesize that this protein forms transient assemblies with the primary E. coli Hsp70 chaperone to channel clients into refolding cycles and with downstream proteostasis hubs when refolding fails. Likely partners include the central Hsp70 machinery and accessory cytosolic factors that coordinate folding, disaggregation, and handoff pathways.
A cytoplasmic Hsp40-class cochaperone that captures non-native polypeptides through a cysteine-rich and C-terminal peptide-binding platform and stimulates the ATPase cycle of the principal cytosolic chaperone to drive efficient folding and quality control. Its N-terminal J-domain triggers ATP hydrolysis, while the central cysteine-rich module and C-terminal binding region concentrate unfolded clients and organize transient assemblies that maintain proteostasis under stress.
Stimulates the ATPase activity and the chaperone activity of DnaK.
IPR036869, homologous_superfamily) — residues 1-112IPR012724, family) — residues 2-370IPR001623, domain) — residues 4-81IPR018253, conserved_site) — residues 47-66IPR008971, homologous_superfamily) — residues 111-341IPR002939, domain) — residues 117-330IPR001305, domain) — residues 131-209IPR036410, homologous_superfamily) — residues 131-207Molecular Function: molecular_function (GO:0003674), binding (GO:0005488), protein binding (GO:0005515), identical protein binding (GO:0042802)
Biological Process: biological_process (GO:0008150), cellular process (GO:0009987), protein folding (GO:0006457), 'de novo' protein folding (GO:0006458), chaperone-mediated protein folding (GO:0061077), 'de novo' post-translational protein folding (GO:0051084)
Cellular Component: cellular_component (GO:0005575), cellular anatomical entity (GO:0110165), intracellular anatomical structure (GO:0005622), organelle (GO:0043226), nucleoid (GO:0009295), intracellular organelle (GO:0043229), bacterial nucleoid (GO:0043590), non-membrane-bounded organelle (GO:0043228), intracellular non-membrane-bounded organelle (GO:0043232)
Generated by BioReason
Exported on March 22, 2026 at 02:51 AM
Organism: Escherichia coli
Sequence:
MAKQDYYEILGVSKTAEEREIRKAYKRLAMKYHPDRNQGDKEAEAKFKEIKEAYEVLTDSQKRAAYDQYGHAAFEQGGMGGGGFGGGADFSDIFGDVFGDIFGGGRGRQRAARGADLRYNMELTLEEAVRGVTKEIRIPTLEECDVCHGSGAKPGTQPQTCPTCHGSGQVQMRQGFFAVQQTCPHCQGRGTLIKDPCNKCHGHGRVERSKTLSVKIPAGVDTGDRIRLAGEGEAGEHGAPAGDLYVQVQVKQHPIFEREGNNLYCEVPINFAMAALGGEIEVPTLDGRVKLKVPGETQTGKLFRMRGKGVKSVRGGAQGDLLCRVVVETPVGLNERQKQLLQELQESFGGPTGEHNSPRSKSFFDGVKKFFDDLTR
I begin with the InterPro architecture. The N-terminus carries IPR036869 (Chaperone J-domain superfamily, residues 1–112) and a canonical IPR001623 J-domain from residues 4–81, reinforced by the IPR018253 conserved site at residues 47–66 that encodes the invariant HPD catalytic triad. This J-domain is the hallmark of Hsp40/J-domain cochaperones and causes stimulation of Hsp70 ATPase activity when it binds client-loaded substrates. The central-to-C-terminal half is defined by IPR008971 (HSP40/DnaJ peptide-binding superfamily, residues 111–341) and IPR002939 (Chaperone DnaJ, C-terminal domain, residues 117–330), establishing a substrate-binding platform that captures non-native polypeptides. Inserted within this region is IPR001305 (Heat shock protein DnaJ, cysteine-rich domain, residues 131–209) and its IPR036410 superfamily, a zinc-binding CRD that stabilizes the fold and enhances client recognition and cochaperone assembly. The full-length signature IPR012724 (Chaperone DnaJ family, residues 2–370) confirms a complete DnaJ-type cochaperone comprising an N-terminal J-domain followed by a CRD and C-terminal peptide-binding module—an ordered arrangement that couples client capture to Hsp70 activation.
This domain layout dictates molecular function. The J-domain’s HPD motif directly accelerates the ATP hydrolysis cycle of Hsp70, while the C-terminal peptide-binding region and CRD provide avid, multivalent client engagement. Together they produce a cochaperone that binds unfolded or partially folded proteins and stimulates Hsp70’s ATPase to drive high-affinity substrate trapping. These features justify two molecular functions: unfolded protein binding (the substrate-binding and CRD modules cause selective affinity for non-native polypeptides) and stimulation of Hsp70’s ATPase activity via the J-domain.
From function to process, this architecture drives protein folding and quality control during cellular stress. By recruiting and activating Hsp70 and handing off clients through its peptide-binding and CRD modules, the protein promotes productive folding cycles and triage pathways central to proteostasis. This mechanistic role situates it in the broader biological process of protein folding and heat-stress adaptation.
Cellular location follows from the soluble, modular nature of the domains and the absence of transmembrane regions or secretion signals in this architecture. DnaJ-class cochaperones operate where nascent chains and stress-denatured proteins accumulate—within the bacterial cytoplasm—supporting a cytoplasmic localization.
Mechanistically, the N-terminal J-domain binds and activates the cytosolic Hsp70 system, while the CRD and C-terminal domains concentrate non-native substrates. I hypothesize that this protein forms transient assemblies with the primary E. coli Hsp70 chaperone to channel clients into refolding cycles and with downstream proteostasis hubs when refolding fails. Likely partners include the central Hsp70 machinery and accessory cytosolic factors that coordinate folding, disaggregation, and handoff pathways.
A cytoplasmic Hsp40-class cochaperone that captures non-native polypeptides through a cysteine-rich and C-terminal peptide-binding platform and stimulates the ATPase cycle of the principal cytosolic chaperone to drive efficient folding and quality control. Its N-terminal J-domain triggers ATP hydrolysis, while the central cysteine-rich module and C-terminal binding region concentrate unfolded clients and organize transient assemblies that maintain proteostasis under stress.
Stimulates the ATPase activity and the chaperone activity of DnaK.
IPR036869, homologous_superfamily) — residues 1-112IPR012724, family) — residues 2-370IPR001623, domain) — residues 4-81IPR018253, conserved_site) — residues 47-66IPR008971, homologous_superfamily) — residues 111-341IPR002939, domain) — residues 117-330IPR001305, domain) — residues 131-209IPR036410, homologous_superfamily) — residues 131-207Molecular Function: molecular_function (GO:0003674), binding (GO:0005488), protein binding (GO:0005515), identical protein binding (GO:0042802)
Biological Process: biological_process (GO:0008150), cellular process (GO:0009987), protein folding (GO:0006457), 'de novo' protein folding (GO:0006458), chaperone-mediated protein folding (GO:0061077), 'de novo' post-translational protein folding (GO:0051084)
Cellular Component: cellular_component (GO:0005575), cellular anatomical entity (GO:0110165), intracellular anatomical structure (GO:0005622), organelle (GO:0043226), nucleoid (GO:0009295), intracellular organelle (GO:0043229), bacterial nucleoid (GO:0043590), non-membrane-bounded organelle (GO:0043228), intracellular non-membrane-bounded organelle (GO:0043232)
Generated by BioReason
Source: DnaJ-deep-research-bioreason-rl.md
The BioReason functional summary describes DnaJ as:
A cytoplasmic Hsp40-class cochaperone that captures non-native polypeptides through a cysteine-rich and C-terminal peptide-binding platform and stimulates the ATPase cycle of the principal cytosolic chaperone to drive efficient folding and quality control. Its N-terminal J-domain triggers ATP hydrolysis, while the central cysteine-rich module and C-terminal binding region concentrate unfolded clients and organize transient assemblies that maintain proteostasis under stress.
This is a strong summary that accurately captures the core function of DnaJ. The domain architecture is correctly described: N-terminal J-domain with HPD motif, cysteine-rich zinc finger domain, and C-terminal substrate-binding domain. The functional narrative correctly identifies:
- Co-chaperone activity stimulating Hsp70/DnaK ATPase
- Client capture through the cysteine-rich and C-terminal domains
- Role in proteostasis under stress
- Cytoplasmic localization
Minor gaps:
- Does not mention DnaJ's homodimeric nature
- Does not mention the secondary function of sigma32 (heat shock transcription factor) inactivation, which is a significant regulatory role
- Does not mention the DnaK-independent chaperone activity dependent on zinc center 1
- Refers to DnaK only as "the principal cytosolic chaperone" without naming it
The thinking trace correctly identifies the zinc-binding function of the cysteine-rich domain (IPR001305) and its role in "client recognition and cochaperone assembly."
Comparison with interpro2go:
The curated review flags one interpro2go error: GO_REF:0000002 assigned ATP binding (from IPR012724, DnaJ family), but DnaJ does not bind ATP -- it stimulates DnaK's ATPase. BioReason avoids this specific error in its functional summary, correctly attributing ATP hydrolysis stimulation rather than direct ATP binding to DnaJ. The other interpro2go annotations (protein folding, response to heat, heat shock protein binding) are all correctly reflected in the BioReason summary. The model appears to add genuine insight beyond interpro2go by synthesizing the multi-domain architecture into a coherent functional narrative.
The trace methodically walks through each InterPro domain and builds a causal chain from structure to function. The reasoning is sound and demonstrates good understanding of J-domain protein biology. The mention of "Hsp70/Hsp90 modules" in the mechanistic hypothesis is slightly anachronistic for E. coli (which lacks a canonical Hsp90 cochaperone system), but this is a minor point.
id: P08622
gene_symbol: DnaJ
product_type: PROTEIN
status: IN_PROGRESS
taxon:
id: NCBITaxon:83333
label: Escherichia coli (strain K12)
description: 'DnaJ (Hsp40) is the founding member of the J-domain protein family and
the primary co-chaperone of the DnaK (Hsp70) chaperone system in E. coli. DnaJ is
a modular protein consisting of four domains: an N-terminal J-domain (residues 3-72)
that stimulates DnaK ATPase activity via a conserved HPD motif, a glycine/phenylalanine-rich
region, a cysteine-rich zinc finger domain (residues 131-209) containing two Zn(2+)
centers, and a C-terminal substrate-binding domain. DnaJ functions as a homodimer
that binds unfolded or misfolded polypeptides and delivers them to DnaK, stimulating
DnaK ATPase activity to form a stable DnaK-substrate complex. Together with GrpE
(nucleotide exchange factor), the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system constitutes a chaperone
machine essential for protein folding, refolding of stress-denatured proteins, regulation
of the heat shock response (via sigma32 inactivation), and initiation of phage lambda
and plasmid DNA replication. DnaJ also possesses DnaK-independent chaperone activity
dependent on zinc center 1, and thiol-disulfide oxidoreductase activity mediated
by its zinc finger cysteines. DnaJ is not an independent foldase but rather a co-chaperone
that assists the DnaK folding cycle.'
existing_annotations:
- term:
id: GO:0005737
label: cytoplasm
evidence_type: IBA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000033
review:
summary: DnaJ is a cytoplasmic protein in E. coli. The IBA annotation is consistent
with experimental IDA evidence from PMID:6220698 and UniProt subcellular location
annotation. Zylicz et al. (1983) identified DnaJ in minicells and showed it
has membrane affinity but is primarily cytoplasmic.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Well-supported by phylogenetic inference and consistent with direct experimental
evidence (IDA from PMID:6220698) and UniProt subcellular location (Cytoplasm).
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:6220698
supporting_text: Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products have been identified
in a system of minicells infected with the appropriate transducing lambda
phages.
- term:
id: GO:0042026
label: protein refolding
evidence_type: IBA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000033
review:
summary: DnaJ participates in protein refolding as part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE
chaperone system. The IBA annotation is well-supported by experimental evidence
showing DnaJ involvement in refolding denatured substrates (PMID:7559385, PMID:20953191).
action: ACCEPT
reason: Core function of DnaJ. The DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system refolds misfolded proteins,
and DnaJ is essential for substrate delivery and DnaK activation in this process.
Supported by IDA from PMID:7559385 and the unfoldase/refolding work of PMID:20953191.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:7559385
supporting_text: The DnaJ protein of Escherichia coli and the DnaJ-like proteins
of eukaryotes are known as molecular chaperones and specific regulators of
DnaK-like proteins and are involved in protein folding and renaturation after
stress.
- reference_id: PMID:20953191
supporting_text: Hsp70-Hsp40-NEF and possibly Hsp100 are the only known molecular
chaperones that can use the energy of ATP to convert stably pre-aggregated
polypeptides into natively refolded proteins.
- term:
id: GO:0051082
label: unfolded protein binding
evidence_type: IBA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000033
review:
summary: DnaJ does bind unfolded proteins via its C-terminal domain and delivers
them to DnaK. However, GO:0051082 "unfolded protein binding" is being reviewed
for obsoletion, and DnaJ is better described as a protein folding chaperone
(GO:0044183) since its binding to unfolded proteins is in the context of the
chaperone folding cycle, not as an independent binding function. DnaJ is a co-chaperone,
not an independent foldase.
action: MODIFY
reason: GO:0051082 is under review for obsoletion. DnaJ binds unfolded substrates
as part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone cycle, not as an independent unfolded-protein
binder. GO:0044183 "protein folding chaperone" better captures this co-chaperone
function. Note that GO:0003767 "co-chaperone activity" is obsolete, so GO:0044183
is the pragmatic interim term.
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0044183
label: protein folding chaperone
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:12941935
supporting_text: it appears that zinc center II mutant proteins lack a necessary
additional interaction site with DnaK, which seems to be crucial for locking-in
substrate proteins onto DnaK.
- term:
id: GO:0045892
label: negative regulation of DNA-templated transcription
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000108
review:
summary: This IEA annotation is logically inferred from the sigma factor antagonist
activity annotation (GO:0016989). DnaJ, together with DnaK, inactivates sigma32
by direct binding, thereby negatively regulating heat shock gene transcription
(PMID:8599944, PMID:1534276). The inference is sound.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Logical inference from GO:0016989 sigma factor antagonist activity. DnaJ
binds sigma32 directly and cooperates with DnaK to inhibit its transcriptional
activity, constituting negative regulation of transcription (PMID:8599944).
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:8599944
supporting_text: DnaK and DnaJ cooperatively inhibit sigma32 activity in heat
shock gene transcription and GrpE partially reverses this inhibition.
- term:
id: GO:0005524
label: ATP binding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000002
review:
summary: IEA from InterPro mapping (IPR012724, the DnaJ family). However, DnaJ
itself does not bind or hydrolyze ATP. DnaJ stimulates the ATPase activity of
DnaK, but the ATP binding is by DnaK, not DnaJ. The InterPro mapping is incorrect
for DnaJ specifically.
action: REMOVE
reason: DnaJ does not bind ATP. It stimulates the ATPase activity of DnaK (the
Hsp70), which is the ATP-binding partner. UniProt does not list ATP binding
as a feature of DnaJ, and no experimental evidence supports direct ATP binding
by DnaJ. This is an erroneous IEA mapping from the DnaJ family InterPro entry.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:8599944
supporting_text: DnaJ, through rapid association with sigma32 and stimulation
of hydrolysis of DnaK-bound ATP, mediates efficient binding of DnaK to sigma32
in the presence of ATP
- term:
id: GO:0005737
label: cytoplasm
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000120
review:
summary: IEA annotation from UniProt subcellular location mapping. Consistent
with experimental IDA evidence (PMID:6220698) and IBA annotation. DnaJ is a
cytoplasmic protein.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Correctly maps UniProt subcellular location annotation. Redundant with
but consistent with the IBA and IDA annotations for the same term.
- term:
id: GO:0006260
label: DNA replication
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000043
review:
summary: IEA from UniProt keyword mapping (KW-0235 "DNA replication"). DnaJ participates
in phage lambda and plasmid DNA replication as part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone
system, which disassembles the replication initiation complex (PMID:1361234,
PMID:3889001). This is a well-established non-core function of DnaJ.
action: KEEP_AS_NON_CORE
reason: DnaJ involvement in DNA replication is indirect -- it functions as a chaperone
to disassemble replication initiation complexes (e.g., lambda P protein release
from the preprimosomal complex). This is a downstream application of its chaperone
activity, not a core biochemical function. Supported by PMID:1361234 and PMID:2144273.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:1361234
supporting_text: a set of Escherichia coli heat shock proteins termed the Hsp70
complex--DnaK, DnaJ, and GrpE--act with ATP to release lambda P protein from
the nucleo-protein complex, freeing the DnaB helicase for its DNA-unwinding
reaction.
- term:
id: GO:0006457
label: protein folding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000002
review:
summary: IEA from InterPro mapping. DnaJ participates in protein folding as part
of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone system. This is a core biological process annotation.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Protein folding is a core biological process for DnaJ. Consistent with
IDA evidence from PMID:9103205 and PMID:7559385.
- term:
id: GO:0008270
label: zinc ion binding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000120
review:
summary: IEA from UniProt keyword/rule mapping. DnaJ binds 2 Zn(2+) ions per monomer
via its cysteine-rich zinc finger domain (residues 131-209). Well-supported
by experimental evidence (PMID:8662861, PMID:11732919, PMID:12941935).
action: ACCEPT
reason: Zinc binding is a well-established structural feature of DnaJ. UniProt
documents 8 zinc-coordinating cysteine residues. Consistent with multiple IDA
annotations.
- term:
id: GO:0009408
label: response to heat
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000002
review:
summary: IEA from InterPro mapping. DnaJ is a heat shock protein induced by heat
stress under control of the HtpR regulatory protein. It participates in the
heat shock response both as a chaperone that refolds denatured proteins and
as a regulator of sigma32.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Well-supported. DnaJ is a classic heat shock protein (HSP40). Consistent
with IMP from PMID:2144273 and IEP from PMID:8349564.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:2144273
supporting_text: dnaJ-insertion mutants did not grow as well as the wild type
at temperatures above 30 degrees C
- term:
id: GO:0031072
label: heat shock protein binding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000002
review:
summary: IEA from InterPro (IPR001305, the DnaJ cysteine-rich domain). DnaJ directly
binds DnaK (Hsp70) via its J-domain and zinc finger region. This is well-established
experimentally (PMID:9860950, PMID:10521435, PMID:22065753). However, the term
"heat shock protein binding" is quite vague. The more specific GO:0051087 "protein-folding
chaperone binding" is already annotated with IPI evidence.
action: ACCEPT
reason: While GO:0051087 is more specific and already annotated, this broader
IEA annotation is not incorrect. DnaJ binds DnaK (Hsp70), which is a heat shock
protein. The IEA mapping from InterPro is reasonable.
- term:
id: GO:0046872
label: metal ion binding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000043
review:
summary: IEA from UniProt keyword mapping (KW-0479 "Metal-binding"). DnaJ binds
zinc ions. This is a broad parent term; the more specific GO:0008270 "zinc ion
binding" is already annotated with IDA evidence.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Not wrong but very general. The more specific zinc ion binding annotation
exists. Acceptable as an IEA that is broader than the experimentally determined
term.
- term:
id: GO:0051082
label: unfolded protein binding
evidence_type: IEA
original_reference_id: GO_REF:0000120
review:
summary: IEA from combined automated annotation. DnaJ binds unfolded substrates
via its C-terminal domain, but this binding is in the context of the chaperone
cycle. Same reasoning as the IBA annotation for GO:0051082 -- should be modified
to GO:0044183.
action: MODIFY
reason: GO:0051082 is under review for obsoletion. DnaJ binds unfolded proteins
as part of its co-chaperone function in the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE folding cycle. GO:0044183
"protein folding chaperone" is the appropriate interim replacement.
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0044183
label: protein folding chaperone
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:10521435
review:
summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Demonstrates structural features required for
DnaK-DnaJ interaction. DnaJ binds DnaK via its J-domain (stimulating ATPase)
and zinc finger region (locking substrates onto DnaK). This is better captured
by GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding" which is already annotated.
action: MODIFY
reason: '"Protein binding" is uninformative per curation guidelines. The interaction
with DnaK is specifically a chaperone-cochaperone interaction. GO:0051087 "protein-folding
chaperone binding" is already annotated for this interaction (PMID:9103205)
and is the appropriate specific term.'
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0051087
label: protein-folding chaperone binding
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:10521435
supporting_text: Structural features required for the interaction of the Hsp70
molecular chaperone DnaK with its cochaperone DnaJ.
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:15690043
review:
summary: IPI with MalT (P06993) and DnaK (P0A6Y8) from a large-scale interaction
study. The MalT interaction could represent a substrate relationship or a regulatory
interaction. Generic protein binding is uninformative but large-scale interaction
data supports the physical interaction.
action: MARK_AS_OVER_ANNOTATED
reason: Large-scale interaction study. "Protein binding" is uninformative. The
MalT interaction likely represents a substrate or regulatory relationship but
is not well-characterized enough to assign a more specific term.
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:18394994
review:
summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Study monitoring protein conformation along the
pathway of chaperonin-assisted folding. The DnaJ-DnaK interaction is well-established
and is better represented by GO:0051087.
action: MODIFY
reason: '"Protein binding" is uninformative. This DnaK interaction is a chaperone-cochaperone
interaction better captured by GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding".'
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0051087
label: protein-folding chaperone binding
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:19439666
review:
summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Solution conformation study of DnaK complexed
with ADP and substrate. Another instance of the DnaJ-DnaK chaperone interaction.
action: MODIFY
reason: '"Protein binding" is uninformative. DnaJ-DnaK interaction is a core chaperone-
cochaperone relationship, better annotated as GO:0051087.'
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0051087
label: protein-folding chaperone binding
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:22065753
review:
summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Study of the dynamic interface between Hsp70/DnaJ
cochaperone complex. Further evidence of the DnaJ-DnaK chaperone interaction.
action: MODIFY
reason: '"Protein binding" is uninformative. The DnaJ-DnaK dynamic interface is
a chaperone-cochaperone interaction, better captured by GO:0051087.'
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0051087
label: protein-folding chaperone binding
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:24561554
review:
summary: IPI with MalT (P06993) from a large-scale binary protein-protein interaction
study of E. coli. Similar to PMID:15690043, this is a high-throughput interaction
dataset.
action: MARK_AS_OVER_ANNOTATED
reason: Large-scale interaction study. "Protein binding" is uninformative. The
MalT interaction is not well-characterized enough to assign a specific functional
term.
- term:
id: GO:0006457
label: protein folding
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:9103205
review:
summary: IDA annotation from CAFA. PMID:9103205 describes the crystal structure
of GrpE bound to the DnaK ATPase domain. While this paper provides insight into
the DnaK/GrpE nucleotide exchange mechanism relevant to the chaperone cycle,
it does not directly assay DnaJ protein folding activity. However, protein folding
is well-established for DnaJ from other sources (PMID:7559385).
action: ACCEPT
reason: Protein folding is a core function of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system. While
PMID:9103205 focuses on the GrpE-DnaK structure, DnaJ involvement in protein
folding is well-supported by other experimental evidence (PMID:7559385).
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:7559385
supporting_text: The DnaJ protein of Escherichia coli and the DnaJ-like proteins
of eukaryotes are known as molecular chaperones and specific regulators of
DnaK-like proteins and are involved in protein folding and renaturation after
stress.
- term:
id: GO:0032991
label: protein-containing complex
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:9103205
review:
summary: IDA from CAFA. PMID:9103205 describes the GrpE-DnaK complex structure.
DnaJ forms part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone complex. However, GO:0032991
"protein-containing complex" is extremely general and not very informative.
action: ACCEPT
reason: DnaJ is part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone complex. While very general,
this CC annotation is not wrong. DnaJ forms homodimers and interacts with DnaK
and GrpE as part of the chaperone machine.
- term:
id: GO:0051082
label: unfolded protein binding
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:9103205
review:
summary: IDA from CAFA citing the GrpE-DnaK crystal structure paper. DnaJ does
bind unfolded substrates, but PMID:9103205 does not directly demonstrate this.
Regardless of the reference, GO:0051082 should be modified to GO:0044183 as
part of the obsoletion project, since DnaJ binding to unfolded proteins is in
the context of chaperone activity.
action: MODIFY
reason: GO:0051082 is under review for obsoletion. DnaJ binding to unfolded substrates
occurs in the context of the chaperone folding cycle. GO:0044183 "protein folding
chaperone" is the appropriate interim replacement.
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0044183
label: protein folding chaperone
- term:
id: GO:0051087
label: protein-folding chaperone binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:9103205
review:
summary: IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8) from CAFA. DnaJ binds the protein-folding chaperone
DnaK. While PMID:9103205 is about the GrpE-DnaK structure, the DnaJ-DnaK interaction
is well-established. This is an appropriate and informative MF annotation.
action: ACCEPT
reason: DnaJ binds DnaK, which is a protein-folding chaperone. This is a core
function of DnaJ as a co-chaperone. Well-supported by extensive experimental
evidence (PMID:9860950, PMID:10521435, PMID:22065753).
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:9860950
supporting_text: Chaperones of the Hsp70 family bind to unfolded or partially
folded polypeptides to facilitate many cellular processes. ATP hydrolysis
and substrate binding, the two key molecular activities of this chaperone,
are modulated by the cochaperone DnaJ.
- term:
id: GO:0065003
label: protein-containing complex assembly
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:9103205
review:
summary: IDA from CAFA. DnaJ participates in the assembly of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE
chaperone complex and also in the assembly/disassembly of replication initiation
complexes. While somewhat general, DnaJ does facilitate complex assembly as
part of its chaperone function.
action: KEEP_AS_NON_CORE
reason: Complex assembly is a consequence of DnaJ chaperone activity rather than
a core independent function. DnaJ facilitates DnaK-substrate complex formation
and disassembly of replication complexes as part of its chaperone cycle.
- term:
id: GO:0005829
label: cytosol
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:6220698
review:
summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Zylicz et al. (1983) identified DnaJ in minicells. DnaJ
is primarily a cytoplasmic/cytosolic protein. The cytosol annotation is appropriate
and consistent with UniProt subcellular location.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Experimentally supported localization. DnaJ is a soluble cytoplasmic protein.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:6220698
supporting_text: Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products have been identified
in a system of minicells
- term:
id: GO:0043335
label: protein unfolding
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:20953191
review:
summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Sharma et al. (2010) demonstrated that the Hsp70 (DnaK)-Hsp40
(DnaJ)-NEF (GrpE) system acts as a polypeptide unfoldase, converting stably
misfolded proteins into intermediates that spontaneously refold to native state.
DnaJ acts upstream of or within this process by delivering substrates to DnaK.
action: ACCEPT
reason: The DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system functions as an unfoldase to convert misfolded
proteins into refoldable intermediates. DnaJ is essential to this process. Supported
by direct experimental evidence from PMID:20953191.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:20953191
supporting_text: one Hsp70 molecule consumed five ATPs to effectively unfold
a single misfolded protein into an intermediate that, upon chaperone dissociation,
spontaneously refolded to the native state
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:18995833
review:
summary: IPI with sigma32 (P0AGB3). Rodriguez et al. (2008) identified two distinct
binding sites in sigma32 for DnaK and DnaJ. DnaJ binding destabilizes a distant
region of sigma32. This is a functionally important interaction for heat shock
regulation. Better captured by GO:0016989 "sigma factor antagonist activity"
which is already annotated.
action: MODIFY
reason: '"Protein binding" is uninformative. The DnaJ-sigma32 interaction represents
sigma factor antagonist activity (GO:0016989), already annotated from PMID:8599944.
Alternatively, GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding" could apply if
considering sigma32 as a chaperone substrate.'
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0051087
label: protein-folding chaperone binding
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:18995833
supporting_text: Here we identified two distinct sites in sigma(32) as binding
sites for DnaK and DnaJ. DnaJ binding destabilizes a distant region of sigma(32)
in close spatial vicinity of the DnaK-binding site
- term:
id: GO:0015035
label: protein-disulfide reductase activity
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:11732919
review:
summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Tang and Wang (2001) showed DnaJ possesses reductase
and oxidase activity mediated by the -C183PHC186- motif in zinc center 2. The
C-terminal fragment (Q181-R376) shows full enzymatic activity. This is a secondary
function dependent on the zinc finger cysteines.
action: KEEP_AS_NON_CORE
reason: Experimentally demonstrated (PMID:11732919) but represents a secondary,
non-core function of DnaJ. The thiol-disulfide oxidoreductase activity is mediated
by the zinc finger cysteines and is distinct from the primary co-chaperone function.
The physiological significance in vivo remains unclear.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:11732919
supporting_text: DnaJ shows reductase activity and oxidase activity but little,
if any, isomerase activity. The reductase activity is reversibly inhibited
by EDTA. Zn2 is important for the enzymatic activity, and only -C(183)PHC(186)-
among the four motifs of -CXXC- functions as the active site of the enzyme.
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:9860950
review:
summary: 'IPI with DnaK (P0A6Y8). Suh et al. (1998) provided genetic and biochemical
evidence that DnaJ binds to at least two sites on DnaK: under the ATPase domain
and near the substrate-binding pocket. This is the foundational DnaK-DnaJ interaction
paper. Better captured by GO:0051087.'
action: MODIFY
reason: '"Protein binding" is uninformative. This key paper characterizes the
DnaJ-DnaK co-chaperone interaction. GO:0051087 "protein-folding chaperone binding"
is the appropriate specific term.'
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0051087
label: protein-folding chaperone binding
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:9860950
supporting_text: By using both genetic and biochemical approaches, we provide
evidence that DnaJ binds to at least two sites on the Escherichia coli Hsp70
family member DnaK
- term:
id: GO:0016989
label: sigma factor antagonist activity
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:8599944
review:
summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Gamer et al. (1996) demonstrated that DnaK and DnaJ
cooperatively inhibit sigma32 transcriptional activity. DnaJ binds free sigma32
with a Kd of 20 nM and mediates efficient binding of DnaK to sigma32. This is
a well-established regulatory function of the DnaK/DnaJ system.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Well-supported by direct experimental evidence. DnaJ binds sigma32 and
cooperates with DnaK to inhibit its transcriptional activity. This is an important
regulatory function, though it represents the co-chaperone acting on a specific
native substrate (sigma32) rather than an independent molecular function.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:8599944
supporting_text: DnaJ and DnaK bind free, but not RNA polymerase-bound, sigma32
with dissociation constants of 20 nM and 5 muM respectively.
- reference_id: PMID:8599944
supporting_text: DnaK and DnaJ cooperatively inhibit sigma32 activity in heat
shock gene transcription and GrpE partially reverses this inhibition.
- term:
id: GO:0005515
label: protein binding
evidence_type: IPI
original_reference_id: PMID:1534276
review:
summary: IPI with sigma32 (P0AGB3). Gamer et al. (1992) demonstrated physical
interaction between DnaK, DnaJ, GrpE and sigma32 in vivo, with DnaJ-sigma32
association being distinct from DnaK-sigma32 interaction (resistant to ATP).
This is better captured by the sigma factor antagonist activity annotation.
action: MODIFY
reason: '"Protein binding" is uninformative. The DnaJ-sigma32 interaction represents
a functionally characterized regulatory interaction. GO:0016989 "sigma factor
antagonist activity" is already annotated for this function.'
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0016989
label: sigma factor antagonist activity
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:1534276
supporting_text: 'an interaction of DnaJ with sigma 32 exists that is distinguishable
from an interaction of DnaK and GrpE with sigma 32: addition of ATP disrupts
the association of DnaK and GrpE with sigma 32, but not the association of
DnaJ with sigma 32.'
- term:
id: GO:0009408
label: response to heat
evidence_type: IMP
original_reference_id: PMID:2144273
review:
summary: IMP from EcoCyc. Sell et al. (1990) showed that dnaJ null mutants did
not grow well above 30C, formed progressively smaller colonies at higher temperatures,
and could not grow at 43C. This demonstrates DnaJ is required for growth at
elevated temperatures, directly supporting response to heat.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Direct mutant phenotype evidence. DnaJ null mutants are heat-sensitive,
demonstrating DnaJ is essential for the heat shock response above 42C.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:2144273
supporting_text: dnaJ-insertion mutants did not grow as well as the wild type
at temperatures above 30 degrees C, although they blocked lambda DNA replication
at all temperatures. The dnaJ-insertion mutants formed progressively smaller
colonies at higher temperatures, up to 42 degrees C, and did not form colonies
at 43 degrees C.
- term:
id: GO:0016032
label: viral process
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:1361234
review:
summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Hoffmann et al. (1992) demonstrated that the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE
chaperone complex is required for initiating phage lambda DNA replication by
sequestering and releasing lambda P protein from the preprimosomal complex.
DnaJ forms an ATP-dependent ternary complex with DnaK and lambda P.
action: KEEP_AS_NON_CORE
reason: DnaJ participates in phage lambda DNA replication as part of the chaperone
system that releases lambda P protein. This is a well-established but non-core
function representing the chaperone system being co-opted by phage.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:1361234
supporting_text: We have discovered an ATP-dependent ternary interaction between
P, DnaK, and DnaJ; this P.DnaK.DnaJ complex is dissociated by GrpE.
- term:
id: GO:0016032
label: viral process
evidence_type: IMP
original_reference_id: PMID:2144273
review:
summary: IMP from EcoCyc. Sell et al. (1990) showed that dnaJ null mutants blocked
lambda phage growth at all temperatures. None of the suppressor mutations that
restored bacterial growth also restored lambda phage propagation.
action: KEEP_AS_NON_CORE
reason: DnaJ is required for phage lambda DNA replication. Mutant phenotype evidence
is strong (PMID:2144273). Non-core because this is the phage co-opting the host
chaperone system.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:2144273
supporting_text: they blocked lambda DNA replication at all temperatures...None
of these suppressor mutations restored the ability of the host to propagate
phage lambda.
- term:
id: GO:0016032
label: viral process
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:3889001
review:
summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Zylicz et al. (1985) purified DnaJ and showed it is
required at a very early step in lambda DNA replication using an in vitro complementation
assay. This is the original biochemical characterization of DnaJ function.
action: KEEP_AS_NON_CORE
reason: Historical paper demonstrating DnaJ function in lambda DNA replication.
Non-core as this is phage co-opting host chaperone function.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:3889001
supporting_text: we have shown that the dnaJ protein is required at a very early
step in the DNA replication process.
- term:
id: GO:0042803
label: protein homodimerization activity
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:3889001
review:
summary: IDA from EcoCyc. Zylicz et al. (1985) determined that DnaJ has a native
Mr of 76,000 under non-denaturing conditions versus 37,000 under denaturing
conditions, indicating it exists as a homodimer. UniProt confirms DnaJ is a
homodimer.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Experimentally demonstrated. DnaJ is a homodimer with each subunit of
approximately 37 kDa. The homodimeric state is a structural property confirmed
by biochemical analysis.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:3889001
supporting_text: a basic (pI 8.5), yet hydrophobic, protein of Mr 37,000 and
76,000 under denaturing and native conditions, respectively
- term:
id: GO:0009408
label: response to heat
evidence_type: IEP
original_reference_id: PMID:8349564
review:
summary: IEP from EcoliWiki. Chuang and Blattner (1993) characterized heat shock
genes including DnaJ, showing heat-induced expression kinetics similar to other
major heat shock proteins (DnaK, GroEL, GroES). DnaJ expression is induced by
heat shock.
action: ACCEPT
reason: DnaJ is a well-known heat shock protein (HSP40) induced by heat stress.
Expression evidence is consistent with IMP evidence from PMID:2144273 and UniProt
annotation of heat-shock induction under HtpR control.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:8349564
supporting_text: In vivo expression kinetics of seven of eight examined new
proteins were found to be similar to those of the four most studied heat shock
proteins, DnaK, DnaJ, GroEL (MopA), and GroES (MopB).
- term:
id: GO:0006260
label: DNA replication
evidence_type: IMP
original_reference_id: PMID:2144273
review:
summary: IMP from EcoliWiki. Sell et al. (1990) showed dnaJ null mutants blocked
lambda DNA replication at all temperatures. DnaJ is required for the initiation
of phage lambda DNA replication as part of the chaperone system.
action: KEEP_AS_NON_CORE
reason: DnaJ involvement in DNA replication (particularly phage lambda) is well-established
but represents the chaperone system being co-opted for replication initiation,
not a core biochemical function.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:2144273
supporting_text: they blocked lambda DNA replication at all temperatures
- term:
id: GO:0008270
label: zinc ion binding
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:8662861
review:
summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Banecki et al. (1996) demonstrated that two Zn(II)
ions interact with each DnaJ monomer using quantitative zinc release assays
and atomic absorption. The zinc finger region is important for DnaK-substrate
complex stabilization.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Direct experimental demonstration of zinc binding. DnaJ has two zinc centers
with distinct functional roles (PMID:8662861, PMID:12941935).
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:8662861
supporting_text: Quantitation of the released Zn(II) ions, upon challenge with
p-hydroxymercuriphenylsulfonic acid, and by atomic absorption showed that
two Zn(II) ions interact with each monomer of DnaJ.
- term:
id: GO:0016020
label: membrane
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:3889001
review:
summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Zylicz et al. (1985) purified DnaJ from the membrane
fraction of an overproducing strain. DnaJ is described as hydrophobic and membrane-associated.
However, DnaJ is primarily a cytoplasmic/cytosolic protein. The membrane association
may be due to DnaJ interacting with membrane-associated substrates or its hydrophobic
Gly/Phe-rich region.
action: ACCEPT
reason: DnaJ was purified from the membrane fraction and shown to have membrane
affinity. UniProt lists subcellular location as Cytoplasm, but early studies
consistently found membrane association (PMID:3889001, PMID:6220698). This likely
represents a secondary localization or substrate interaction.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:3889001
supporting_text: we purified the dnaJ protein to homogeneity from the membrane
fraction of an overproducing strain of bacteria. The purified dnaJ protein
was shown to be a basic (pI 8.5), yet hydrophobic, protein
- term:
id: GO:0008270
label: zinc ion binding
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:11985624
review:
summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Katayama et al. (2002) performed a systematic search
for zinc-binding proteins in E. coli using radioactive Zn(II) binding assays.
DnaJ was identified as a known zinc-binding protein in this screen.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Confirms DnaJ zinc binding by an independent experimental approach. Consistent
with other IDA evidence for zinc ion binding (PMID:8662861).
- term:
id: GO:0005737
label: cytoplasm
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:6220698
review:
summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Zylicz et al. (1983) identified DnaJ in minicells
and showed it has membrane affinity. The cytoplasm annotation is appropriate
as DnaJ is primarily cytoplasmic. Consistent with IBA and IEA annotations.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Direct experimental evidence. DnaJ identified in minicells as a cytoplasmic
protein with membrane affinity (PMID:6220698).
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:6220698
supporting_text: Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products have been identified
in a system of minicells infected with the appropriate transducing lambda
phages.
- term:
id: GO:0016020
label: membrane
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:6220698
review:
summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. Zylicz et al. (1983) showed both DnaJ and DnaK are
membrane-bound using equilibrium sedimentation in metrizamide density gradients.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Experimentally demonstrated membrane association. DnaJ shows membrane
affinity, consistent with its hydrophobic character and membrane fraction purification
(PMID:3889001).
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:6220698
supporting_text: Equilibrium sedimentation of minicell lysates in metrizamide
density gradients has revealed that both these host proteins, indispensable
for lambda DNA replication, are membrane-bound.
- term:
id: GO:0003756
label: protein disulfide isomerase activity
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:7559385
review:
summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. de Crouy-Chanel et al. (1995) showed DnaJ catalyzes
protein disulfide formation, reduction, and isomerization (refolding of randomly
oxidized RNase). However, Tang and Wang (2001, PMID:11732919) found that DnaJ
shows reductase and oxidase activity but "little, if any, isomerase activity."
The isomerase annotation may be an over-interpretation.
action: MODIFY
reason: While PMID:7559385 initially reported disulfide isomerase activity, the
more detailed follow-up study (PMID:11732919) found DnaJ has "little, if any,
isomerase activity" and primarily shows reductase and oxidase activities. GO:0015035
"protein-disulfide reductase activity" is already annotated and is the more
accurate term. The isomerase activity claim was not confirmed.
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0015035
label: protein-disulfide reductase activity
additional_reference_ids:
- PMID:11732919
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:11732919
supporting_text: DnaJ shows reductase activity and oxidase activity but little,
if any, isomerase activity.
- reference_id: PMID:7559385
supporting_text: DnaJ, like thioredoxin, protein-disulfide isomerase, and DsbA,
possesses an active dithiol/disulfide group and catalyzes protein disulfide
formation (oxidative renaturation of reduced RNase), reduction (reduction
of insulin disulfides), and isomerization (refolding of randomly oxidized
RNase).
- term:
id: GO:0006457
label: protein folding
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:7559385
review:
summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. de Crouy-Chanel et al. (1995) demonstrated DnaJ involvement
in protein folding and renaturation after stress. This is a core function.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Core biological process for DnaJ. Well-supported experimental evidence.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:7559385
supporting_text: The DnaJ protein of Escherichia coli and the DnaJ-like proteins
of eukaryotes are known as molecular chaperones and specific regulators of
DnaK-like proteins and are involved in protein folding and renaturation after
stress.
- term:
id: GO:0008270
label: zinc ion binding
evidence_type: IMP
original_reference_id: PMID:12941935
review:
summary: IMP from EcoliWiki. Linke et al. (2003) showed that mutating zinc-coordinating
cysteines to serine in either zinc center 1 (C144S/C147S/C197S/C200S) or zinc
center 2 (C161S/C164S/C183S/C186S) had distinct functional effects, demonstrating
the importance of zinc binding for DnaJ activity.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Mutant phenotype evidence confirming the functional importance of zinc
binding. Zinc center 1 is required for DnaK-independent chaperone activity,
while zinc center 2 is essential for DnaK interaction and overall function.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:12941935
supporting_text: in the absence of zinc center I, the autonomous, DnaK-independent
chaperone activity of DnaJ is dramatically reduced...The DnaJ zinc center
II, on the other hand, was found to be absolutely essential for the in vivo
and in vitro function of DnaJ.
- term:
id: GO:0042026
label: protein refolding
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:7559385
review:
summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. de Crouy-Chanel et al. (1995) demonstrated DnaJ involvement
in protein renaturation (refolding) after stress, including refolding of randomly
oxidized RNase. This is a core function of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system.
action: ACCEPT
reason: Core function. DnaJ participates in refolding of stress-denatured proteins
as part of the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone system. Experimentally demonstrated.
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:7559385
supporting_text: DnaJ-like proteins of eukaryotes are known as molecular chaperones
and specific regulators of DnaK-like proteins and are involved in protein
folding and renaturation after stress.
- term:
id: GO:0051082
label: unfolded protein binding
evidence_type: IDA
original_reference_id: PMID:7559385
review:
summary: IDA from EcoliWiki. de Crouy-Chanel et al. (1995) showed DnaJ binds unfolded
proteins as part of its chaperone function. However, GO:0051082 is under review
for obsoletion. DnaJ binding to unfolded substrates is part of the chaperone
cycle, not an independent binding function.
action: MODIFY
reason: GO:0051082 is under review for obsoletion. DnaJ binds unfolded proteins
in the context of co-chaperone activity. GO:0044183 "protein folding chaperone"
is the appropriate interim replacement, capturing the functional context of
this binding.
proposed_replacement_terms:
- id: GO:0044183
label: protein folding chaperone
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:7559385
supporting_text: DnaJ, like thioredoxin, protein-disulfide isomerase, and DsbA,
possesses an active dithiol/disulfide group and catalyzes protein disulfide
formation
references:
- id: GO_REF:0000002
title: Gene Ontology annotation through association of InterPro records with GO
terms
findings: []
- id: GO_REF:0000033
title: Annotation inferences using phylogenetic trees
findings: []
- id: GO_REF:0000043
title: Gene Ontology annotation based on UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot keyword mapping
findings: []
- id: GO_REF:0000108
title: Automatic assignment of GO terms using logical inference, based on inter-ontology
links
findings: []
- id: GO_REF:0000120
title: Combined Automated Annotation using Multiple IEA Methods
findings: []
- id: PMID:10521435
title: Structural features required for the interaction of the Hsp70 molecular chaperone
DnaK with its cochaperone DnaJ.
findings:
- statement: DnaK-DnaJ interaction requires specific structural features
- id: PMID:11732919
title: Zinc fingers and thiol-disulfide oxidoreductase activities of chaperone DnaJ.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ shows reductase and oxidase activity but little isomerase activity;
Zn2 mediates enzymatic activity via C183PHC186 active site
- id: PMID:11985624
title: Systematic search for zinc-binding proteins in Escherichia coli.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ identified as a known zinc-binding protein in systematic screen
- id: PMID:12941935
title: The roles of the two zinc binding sites in DnaJ.
findings:
- statement: Zinc center 1 is important for DnaK-independent chaperone activity;
zinc center 2 is essential for DnaK interaction and overall function
- id: PMID:1361234
title: Activity of the Hsp70 chaperone complex--DnaK, DnaJ, and GrpE--in initiating
phage lambda DNA replication by sequestering and releasing lambda P protein.
findings:
- statement: DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE form an ATP-dependent ternary complex with lambda P
protein that is dissociated by GrpE
- id: PMID:1534276
title: Physical interaction between heat shock proteins DnaK, DnaJ, and GrpE and
the bacterial heat shock transcription factor sigma 32.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ-sigma32 interaction is ATP-resistant and distinct from DnaK-sigma32
interaction
- id: PMID:15690043
title: Interaction network containing conserved and essential protein complexes
in Escherichia coli.
findings:
- statement: Large-scale interaction study identifying DnaJ interactions with DnaK
and MalT
- id: PMID:18394994
title: Monitoring protein conformation along the pathway of chaperonin-assisted
folding.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ-DnaK interaction in chaperone-assisted protein folding
- id: PMID:18995833
title: Molecular basis for regulation of the heat shock transcription factor sigma32
by the DnaK and DnaJ chaperones.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ and DnaK bind distinct sites on sigma32; DnaJ binding destabilizes
a distant region near the DnaK-binding site
- id: PMID:19439666
title: Solution conformation of wild-type E. coli Hsp70 (DnaK) chaperone complexed
with ADP and substrate.
findings:
- statement: DnaK-DnaJ complex structure in ADP-bound state
- id: PMID:1826368
title: Escherichia coli DnaJ and GrpE heat shock proteins jointly stimulate ATPase
activity of DnaK.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ and GrpE jointly stimulate DnaK ATPase activity
- id: PMID:20953191
title: The kinetic parameters and energy cost of the Hsp70 chaperone as a polypeptide
unfoldase.
findings:
- statement: DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE acts as a polypeptide unfoldase consuming 5 ATPs per
misfolded protein unfolded
- id: PMID:2144273
title: Isolation and characterization of dnaJ null mutants of Escherichia coli.
findings:
- statement: dnaJ null mutants are heat-sensitive (no growth at 43C) and block lambda
phage replication at all temperatures
- id: PMID:22065753
title: Heat shock protein 70 kDa chaperone/DnaJ cochaperone complex employs an unusual
dynamic interface.
findings:
- statement: DnaK-DnaJ complex uses a dynamic interaction interface
- id: PMID:24561554
title: The binary protein-protein interaction landscape of Escherichia coli.
findings:
- statement: Large-scale binary PPI study identifying DnaJ-MalT interaction
- id: PMID:3889001
title: Purification and properties of the dnaJ replication protein of Escherichia
coli.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ purified as a 37 kDa homodimer from membrane fraction; required
at early step in lambda DNA replication; exhibits DNA binding and membrane affinity
- id: PMID:6220698
title: 'Escherichia coli dnaJ- and dnaK-gene products: synthesis in minicells and
membrane-affinity.'
findings:
- statement: DnaJ and DnaK identified in minicells; both are membrane-bound
- id: PMID:7559385
title: A novel function of Escherichia coli chaperone DnaJ. Protein-disulfide isomerase.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ possesses dithiol/disulfide group and catalyzes protein disulfide
formation, reduction, and isomerization; involved in protein folding and renaturation
- id: PMID:8349564
title: Characterization of twenty-six new heat shock genes of Escherichia coli.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ is among the most studied heat shock proteins with characteristic
heat-induced expression kinetics
- id: PMID:8599944
title: A cycle of binding and release of the DnaK, DnaJ and GrpE chaperones regulates
activity of the Escherichia coli heat shock transcription factor sigma32.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ binds free sigma32 (Kd 20 nM), stimulates DnaK binding to sigma32,
and cooperatively with DnaK inhibits sigma32 transcriptional activity
- id: PMID:8662861
title: Structure-function analysis of the zinc finger region of the DnaJ molecular
chaperone.
findings:
- statement: Two Zn(II) ions per DnaJ monomer; zinc finger region important for
DnaK-substrate complex stabilization but not for DnaK binding or ATPase stimulation
- id: PMID:9103205
title: Crystal structure of the nucleotide exchange factor GrpE bound to the ATPase
domain of the molecular chaperone DnaK.
findings:
- statement: GrpE dimer binds asymmetrically to DnaK ATPase domain; structure reveals
nucleotide exchange mechanism in the DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE chaperone cycle
- id: PMID:9860950
title: Interaction of the Hsp70 molecular chaperone, DnaK, with its cochaperone
DnaJ.
findings:
- statement: DnaJ binds at least two sites on DnaK -- under ATPase domain and near
substrate-binding pocket; D35N mutation abolishes DnaK binding
core_functions:
- description: DnaJ functions as the primary co-chaperone of the DnaK (Hsp70) chaperone
system. It binds unfolded or misfolded substrates via its C-terminal domain and
delivers them to DnaK, stimulating DnaK ATPase activity through the conserved
HPD motif in its J-domain. Together with GrpE (nucleotide exchange factor), the
DnaK/DnaJ/GrpE system refolds stress-denatured proteins and converts stably misfolded
proteins into intermediates that spontaneously refold to the native state (PMID:20953191).
DnaJ is the founding member of the J-domain protein family.
molecular_function:
id: GO:0044183
label: protein folding chaperone
directly_involved_in:
- id: GO:0006457
label: protein folding
- id: GO:0042026
label: protein refolding
- id: GO:0043335
label: protein unfolding
locations:
- id: GO:0005829
label: cytosol
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:20953191
supporting_text: Hsp70-Hsp40-NEF and possibly Hsp100 are the only known molecular
chaperones that can use the energy of ATP to convert stably pre-aggregated polypeptides
into natively refolded proteins.
- reference_id: PMID:12941935
supporting_text: it appears that zinc center II mutant proteins lack a necessary
additional interaction site with DnaK, which seems to be crucial for locking-in
substrate proteins onto DnaK.
- description: DnaJ cooperates with DnaK to inactivate sigma32 (the heat shock transcription
factor) by direct binding, constituting a negative feedback loop in the heat shock
response. DnaJ binds free sigma32 with Kd 20 nM (PMID:8599944) and mediates efficient
DnaK binding to sigma32, cooperatively inhibiting its transcriptional activity.
molecular_function:
id: GO:0016989
label: sigma factor antagonist activity
directly_involved_in:
- id: GO:0045892
label: negative regulation of DNA-templated transcription
- id: GO:0009408
label: response to heat
locations:
- id: GO:0005829
label: cytosol
supported_by:
- reference_id: PMID:8599944
supporting_text: DnaK and DnaJ cooperatively inhibit sigma32 activity in heat
shock gene transcription and GrpE partially reverses this inhibition.