Identification of two novel RanGTP-binding proteins belonging to the importin β superfamily

Nucleo-cytoplasmic transport comprises a large number of distinct pathways, many of which are defined by members of the importin β superfamily of nuclear transport receptors. These transport receptors all directly interact with RanGTP to modulate the compartment specific binding of their transport substrates. To identify new members of the importin β family, we used affinity chromatography on immobilized RanGTP and isolated Ran-binding protein (RanBP) 16 from HeLa cell extracts. RanBP16 and its close human homologue, RanBP17, are distant members of the importin β family. Like the other members of the transport receptor superfamily, RanBP16 interacts with the nuclear pore complex and is able to enter the nucleus independent of energy and additional nuclear transport receptors.