SAM Domain

**Semantic type:** Amino Acid Sequence

**Definition:** The approximately 70 amino acid SAM (Sterile Alpha Motif) domain has been identified in over 400 different proteins with diverse cellular function, from yeast to man. SAM domains have been implicated in mediating protein-protein interaction via the formation of homo and hetero-typic oligomers. The residues at the interface of the EphA4 and EphB2 SAM domain homodimers have been mapped, but the factors that determine specificity remain to be determined. (Pawson Lab, SLRI, Mount Sinai Hospital, 2003)

**Synonyms:** - SAM Motif - Sterile Alpha Domain - Sterile Alpha Motif