Proteasomal AAA-ATPases: Structure and function

► AAA-ATPases, generators of mechanical force, are key players in protein degradation throughout evolution. ► Archaeal PAN homo-hexameric ring provides insights into structure and function of eukaryotic hetero-hexameric Rpt ring. ► Exciting findings show the role of the C-termini of proteasomal AAA-ATPases in opening the proteolytic chamber 'gate'. ► Novel discoveries on assembly pathways lead to revised spatial arrangement of eukaryotic hetero-hexameric Rpt ring. ► Functional studies emphasize the unique contribution of each individual Rpt subunit to various cellular processes.