Proteasomes, once regarded as cellular waste-disposal units, are now recognised as regulators of fish immune function, stress adaptation and protein homeostasis. This article explores the structure and function of the proteasome, the targeted protein degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) and its regulation in response to environmental stressors. These molecular machines control antigen presentation, starvation, hypoxia, oxidative and heat stress and oocyte maturation in fish. They act as stress biomarkers and disease resistance enhancers in aquaculture. Targeted proteasomal degradation of proteins is made possible with recent technologies like PROTACs (Proteolysis Targeting Chimaeras) that could help in precision aquaculture.
V. Subashini
ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, Maharashtra (400 061), India
S. Sangeetha
Diganta Dey
Annam Pavan Kumar*
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