The motif “SYDE”, incorporating the protein kinase CK2 consensus sequence (S-x-x-E) has been found to be phosphorylated at both its serine and tyrosine residues in several proteins. Of special interest is the case of cystic fibrosis Transmembrane-conductance Regulator (CFTR), where this motif is close to the residue (F508), whose deletion is the by far commonest cause of cystic fibrosis. Intriguingly, however, CFTR S511 cannot be phosphorylated by CK2 to any appreciable extent. Using a number of peptide substrates encompassing the CFTR “SYDE” site we have recently shown that: (1) failure of CK2 to phosphorylate the S511YDE motif is due to the presence of Y512; (2) CK2 readily phosphorylates S511 if Y512 is replaced by a phospho-tyrosine; (3) the Src family protein tyrosine kinase Lyn phosphorylates Y512 in a manner that is enhanced by the deletion of F508. These data, in conjunction with the recent observation that by inhibiting CK2 the degradation of F508delCFTR is reduced, lead us to hypothesize that the hierarchical phosphorylation of the motif SYDE by the concerted action of protein tyrosine kinases and CK2 is one of the mechanisms that cooperate to the premature degradation of F508delCFTR.
