SCF–FBXO31 scans proteins for C-terminal amidation and marks them for subsequent proteasomal degradation.

Many environmental toxins damage proteins, which then must be removed to avoid dangerous protein aggregation and disease. How cells dispose of chemically modified proteins has been unclear, but a discovery offers some clues. How the stress-response machinery eliminates damaged proteins.

SCF–FBXO31 scans proteins for C-terminal amidation and marks them for subsequent proteasomal degradation.