A novel human gene encoding HECT domain and RCC1-like repeats interacts with cyclins and is potentially regulated by the tumor suppressor proteins

Cyclin E-Cdk2 is an evolutionary conserved cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) complex that drives the G1 to S phase transition of the cell cycle. A novel cDNA encoding a HECT family protein also containing RCC1-like repeats was isolated by a yeast two-hybrid screening using both cyclin E and its inhibitor p21. The protein product of this cDNA, Ceb1, interacts with various cyclin subunits of CDKs in mammalian cells. Expression of Ceb1 is specifically detected in testis and ovary and is highly elevated when the functions of the tumor suppressor proteins, p53 and RB, are compromised by mutations or viral oncoproteins. The present results suggest that Ceb1 may play a critical role when its expression and the CDK activity are upregulated by inactivation of p53 and RB.