SEL1L-HRD1 ER-associated degradation is a new ataxia gene

Despite recent advances in our understanding of the physiological importance of SEL1L-HRD1 endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated protein degradation (ERAD) using cell type-specific knockout (KO) mouse models, its relevance and importance in ataxia pathogenesis remain unknown. Here we show that loss of SEL1L-HRD1 ERAD complex interaction or function in Purkinje cells leads to cerebellar ataxia. Both homozygous knock-in (KI) mice carrying SEL1L variant p.Ser658Pro (S658P) and mice with Purkinje cell-specific deletion of SEL1L exhibit early-onset cerebellar ataxia, although disease severity and progression differ between the models. Structure-function analyses reveal that SEL1L S658P variant impairs, not abolishes, ERAD function by attenuating the interaction between SEL1L and HRD1. Proteomic screen of potential endogenous substrates leads to the identification of Astrotactin 1 and 2, two integral membrane proteins involved in neuronal function and development, whose maturation and biogenesis in the ER depend on SEL1L-HRD1 ERAD activity. These data demonstrate the pathophysiological importance of SEL1L-HRD1 interaction and function in the pathogenesis of cerebellar ataxia.   ### Competing Interest Statement The authors have declared no competing interest.