Figure 11. Model depicting possible dual functions of Mcl-1.

In this proposed model, full-length Mcl-1 at the mitochondria fulfils a Bcl-2-like function, but a signal arising in S/G2 leads to its proteolysis, releasing snMcl-1, which can bind to Cdk1. We propose association with a protein containing an NLS that mediates rapid translocation to the nucleus. snMcl-1 may act to sequester Cdk1 from its active complex in association with its partner cyclins.