Divalent interaction of the GGAs with the Rabaptin-5-Rabex-5 complex

Transport mechanisms between the endocytic, recycling, and biosynthetic pathways via endosomes and the trans-Golgi network

After the endocytic and biosynthetic pathway converge, they partially share the route to the lysosome/vacuole. Similarly, the endocytic recycling and secretory pathways also partially share the route to the plasma membrane. The interaction of these transport pathways is mediated by endosomes and the trans-Golgi network (TGN), which act as sorting stations in endocytic and biosynthesis pathway, and endosomes has a bidirectional transport to and from the TGN. In mammalian cells endosomes can be largely classified as early/sorting, late, and recycling endosomes, based on their morphological features and localization of Rab family proteins, which are key factors in vesicular trafficking. However, these endosomes do not necessarily represent specific compartments that are comparable among different species. For instance, Rab5 localizes to early endosomes in mammalian cells but is widely localized to early-to-late endosomes in yeast, and to pre-vacuolar endosomes and the TGN in plant cells. The SNARE complexes are also key factors widely conserved among species and localized specifically to the endosomal membrane, but the localization of respective homologs is not necessarily consistent among species. These facts suggest that endosomes should be classified more inclusively across species. Here we reconsider the mammalian endosome system based on findings in budding yeast and other species and discuss the differences and similarities between them.

Distinct role of TGN-resident clathrin adaptors for Vps21p activation in the TGN-endosome trafficking pathway

Clathrin-mediated vesicle trafficking plays central roles in post-Golgi transport. In yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), the AP-1 complex and GGA adaptors are predicted to generate distinct transport vesicles at the trans-Golgi network (TGN), and the epsin-related proteins Ent3p and Ent5p (collectively Ent3p/5p) act as accessories for these adaptors. Recently, we showed that vesicle transport from the TGN is crucial for yeast Rab5 (Vps21p)-mediated endosome formation, and that Ent3p/5p are crucial for this process, whereas AP-1 and GGA adaptors are dispensable. However, these observations were incompatible with previous studies showing that these adaptors are required for Ent3p/5p recruitment to the TGN, and thus the overall mechanism responsible for regulation of Vps21p activity remains ambiguous. Here, we investigated the functional relationships between clathrin adaptors in post-Golgi-mediated Vps21p activation. We show that AP-1 disruption in the ent3Δ5Δ mutant impaired transport of the Vps21p guanine nucleotide exchange factor Vps9p transport to the Vps21p compartment and severely reduced Vps21p activity. Additionally, GGA adaptors, the phosphatidylinositol-4-kinase Pik1p and Rab11 GTPases Ypt31p and Ypt32p were found to have partially overlapping functions for recruitment of AP-1 and Ent3p/5p to the TGN. These findings suggest a distinct role of clathrin adaptors for Vps21p activation in the TGN-endosome trafficking pathway.

A neurodevelopmental disorder associated with an activating de novo missense variant in ARF1

ADP-ribosylation factor 1 (ARF1) is a small GTPase that regulates membrane traffic at the Golgi apparatus and endosomes through recruitment of several coat proteins and lipid-modifying enzymes. Here, we report a pediatric patient with an ARF1-related disorder because of a monoallelic de novo missense variant (c.296 G > A; p.R99H) in the ARF1 gene, associated with developmental delay, hypotonia, intellectual disability and motor stereotypies. Neuroimaging revealed a hypoplastic corpus callosum and subcortical white matter abnormalities. Notably, this patient did not exhibit periventricular heterotopias previously observed in other patients with ARF1 variants (including p.R99H). Functional analysis of the R99H-ARF1 variant protein revealed that it was expressed at normal levels and properly localized to the Golgi apparatus; however, the expression of this variant caused swelling of the Golgi apparatus, increased the recruitment of coat proteins such as coat protein complex I, adaptor protein complex 1 and GGA3 and altered the morphology of recycling endosomes. In addition, we observed that the expression of R99H-ARF1 prevented dispersal of the Golgi apparatus by the ARF1-inhibitor brefeldin A. Finally, protein interaction analyses showed that R99H-ARF1 bound more tightly to the ARF1-effector GGA3 relative to wild-type ARF1. These properties were similar to those of the well-characterized constitutively active Q71L-ARF1 mutant, indicating that the pathogenetic mechanism of the R99H-ARF1 variant involves constitutive activation with resultant Golgi and endosomal alterations. The absence of periventricular nodular heterotopias in this R99H-ARF1 subject also indicates that this finding may not be a consistent phenotypic expression of all ARF1-related disorders.

The adaptor protein chaperone AAGAB stabilizes AP-4 complex subunits

Adaptor protein 4 (AP-4) is a heterotetrameric complex composed of ε, β4, μ4 and σ4 subunits that mediates export of a subset of transmembrane cargos, including autophagy protein 9A (ATG9A), from the trans-Golgi network (TGN). AP-4 has received particular attention in recent years because mutations in any of its subunits cause a complicated form of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP or SPG) referred to as "AP-4-deficiency syndrome." The identification of proteins that interact with AP-4 has shed light on the mechanisms of AP-4-dependent cargo sorting and distribution within the cell. However, the mechanisms by which the AP-4 complex itself is assembled have remained unknown. Herein, we report that the alpha- and gamma-adaptin-binding protein (AAGAB, also known as p34) binds to and stabilizes the AP-4 ε-and σ4 subunits, thus promoting complex assembly. The importance of this binding is underscored by the observation that AAGAB-knockout cells exhibit reduced levels of AP-4 subunits and accumulation of ATG9A at the TGN like those in cells, mice, or patients with mutations in AP-4-subunit genes. These findings demonstrate that AP-4 assembly is not spontaneous but AAGAB-assisted, thus contributing to the understanding of an adaptor protein complex that is critically involved in development of the central nervous system.

Mechanisms regulating the sorting of soluble lysosomal proteins

Lysosomes are key regulators of many fundamental cellular processes such as metabolism, autophagy, immune response, cell signalling and plasma membrane repair. These highly dynamic organelles are composed of various membrane and soluble proteins, which are essential for their proper functioning. The soluble proteins include numerous proteases, glycosidases and other hydrolases, along with activators, required for catabolism. The correct sorting of soluble lysosomal proteins is crucial to ensure the proper functioning of lysosomes and is achieved through the coordinated effort of many sorting receptors, resident ER and Golgi proteins, and several cytosolic components. Mutations in a number of proteins involved in sorting soluble proteins to lysosomes result in human disease. These can range from rare diseases such as lysosome storage disorders, to more prevalent ones, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and others, including rare neurodegenerative diseases that affect children. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms that regulate the sorting of soluble proteins to lysosomes and highlight the effects of mutations in this pathway that cause human disease. More precisely, we will review the route taken by soluble lysosomal proteins from their translation into the ER, their maturation along the Golgi apparatus, and sorting at the trans-Golgi network. We will also highlight the effects of mutations in this pathway that cause human disease.

RUSC2 and WDR47 oppositely regulate kinesin-1-dependent distribution of ATG9A to the cell periphery

Autophagy-related protein 9 (ATG9) is a transmembrane protein component of the autophagy machinery that cycles between the trans-Golgi network (TGN) in the perinuclear area and other compartments in the peripheral area of the cell. In mammalian cells, export of the ATG9A isoform from the TGN into ATG9A-containing vesicles is mediated by the adaptor protein 4 (AP-4) complex. However, the mechanisms responsible for the subsequent distribution of these vesicles to the cell periphery are unclear. Herein we show that the AP-4-accessory protein RUSC2 couples ATG9A-containing vesicles to the plus-end-directed microtubule motor kinesin-1 via an interaction between a disordered region of RUSC2 and the kinesin-1 light chain. This interaction is counteracted by the microtubule-associated protein WDR47. These findings uncover a mechanism for the peripheral distribution of ATG9A-containing vesicles involving the function of RUSC2 as a kinesin-1 adaptor and WDR47 as a negative regulator of this function.

Global mapping of Salmonella enterica-host protein-protein interactions during infection

Intracellular bacterial pathogens inject effector proteins to hijack host cellular processes and promote their survival and proliferation. To systematically map effector-host protein-protein interactions (PPIs) during infection, we generated a library of 32 Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (STm) strains expressing chromosomally encoded affinity-tagged effectors and quantified PPIs in macrophages and epithelial cells. We identified 446 effector-host PPIs, 25 of which were previously described, and validated 13 by reciprocal co-immunoprecipitation. While effectors converged on the same host cellular processes, most had multiple targets, which often differed between cell types. We demonstrate that SseJ, SseL, and SifA modulate cholesterol accumulation at the Salmonella-containing vacuole (SCV) partially via the cholesterol transporter Niemann-Pick C1 protein. PipB recruits the organelle contact site protein PDZD8 to the SCV, and SteC promotes actin bundling by phosphorylating formin-like proteins. This study provides a method for probing host-pathogen PPIs during infection and a resource for interrogating STm effector mechanisms.

The FTS-Hook-FHIP (FHF) complex interacts with AP-4 to mediate perinuclear distribution of AP-4 and its cargo ATG9A

The heterotetrameric adaptor protein complex 4 (AP-4) is a component of a protein coat associated with the trans-Golgi network (TGN). Mutations in AP-4 subunits cause a complicated form of autosomal-recessive hereditary spastic paraplegia termed AP-4-deficiency syndrome. Recent studies showed that AP-4 mediates export of the transmembrane autophagy protein ATG9A from the TGN to preautophagosomal structures. To identify additional proteins that cooperate with AP-4 in ATG9A trafficking, we performed affinity purification-mass spectrometry followed by validation of the hits by biochemical and functional analyses. This approach resulted in the identification of the fused toes homolog-Hook-FHIP (FHF) complex as a novel AP-4 accessory factor. We found that the AP-4-FHF interaction is mediated by direct binding of the AP-4 μ4 subunit to coiled-coil domains in the Hook1 and Hook2 subunits of FHF. Knockdown of FHF subunits resulted in dispersal of AP-4 and ATG9A from the perinuclear region of the cell, consistent with the previously demonstrated role of the FHF complex in coupling organelles to the microtubule (MT) retrograde motor dynein-dynactin. These findings thus uncover an additional mechanism for the distribution of ATG9A within cells and provide further evidence for a role of protein coats in coupling transport vesicles to MT motors.

Rab5-mediated endosome formation is regulated at the trans-Golgi network

Early endosomes, also called sorting endosomes, are known to mature into late endosomes via the Rab5-mediated endolysosomal trafficking pathway. Thus, early endosome existence is thought to be maintained by the continual fusion of transport vesicles from the plasma membrane and the trans-Golgi network (TGN). Here we show instead that endocytosis is dispensable and post-Golgi vesicle transport is crucial for the formation of endosomes and the subsequent endolysosomal traffic regulated by yeast Rab5 Vps21p. Fittingly, all three proteins required for endosomal nucleotide exchange on Vps21p are first recruited to the TGN before transport to the endosome, namely the GEF Vps9p and the epsin-related adaptors Ent3/5p. The TGN recruitment of these components is distinctly controlled, with Vps9p appearing to require the Arf1p GTPase, and the Rab11s, Ypt31p/32p. These results provide a different view of endosome formation and identify the TGN as a critical location for regulating progress through the endolysosomal trafficking pathway.

Host Cell Rab GTPases in Hepatitis B Virus Infection

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a leading cause of liver disease and is presently estimated to infect more than 250 million humans. The extremely successful spread of this virus among the human population is explained by its effective transmission strategies and its manifold particle types, including virions, empty envelopes and naked capsids. Due to its tiny genome, HBV depends on cellular machineries to thrive in infected hepatocytes. To enter, traverse and exit the cell, HBV exploits host membrane trafficking pathways, including intracellular highways directed by Rab GTPases. Here, we review recent discoveries focused on how HBV co-opts and perturbs host Rab GTPase functions with an emphasis on Rab7A- and Rab33B-mediated trafficking pathways. Rab7A plays bidirectional roles in the viral life cycle, as it promotes the endocytic uptake of HBV in early stages, but restricts exocytic virion release in late stages. In intermediate stages of HBV propagation, Rab33B is needed to guide the assembly of replicative progeny nucleocapsids. Rab33B acts together with its Atg5-12/16L1 effector, a protein complex required for autophagosome formation, suggesting the concept that HBV exploits this Rab/effector complex as an assembly scaffold and machine. We also discuss whether Rab-directed trafficking pathways engaged by HBV may be applicable to other virus families. Identification of overlapping Rab functions may offer new chances to develop broad-spectrum host-targeted antiviral strategies.

Rab4A organizes endosomal domains for sorting cargo to lysosome-related organelles

Sorting endosomes (SEs) are the regulatory hubs for sorting cargo to multiple organelles, including lysosome-related organelles, such as melanosomes in melanocytes. In parallel, melanosome biogenesis is initiated from SEs with the processing and sequential transport of melanocyte-specific proteins toward maturing melanosomes. However, the mechanism of cargo segregation on SEs is largely unknown. Here, RNAi screening in melanocytes revealed that knockdown of Rab4A results in defective melanosome maturation. Rab4A-depletion increases the number of vacuolar endosomes and disturbs the cargo sorting, which in turn lead to the mislocalization of melanosomal proteins to lysosomes, cell surface and exosomes. Rab4A localizes to the SEs and forms an endosomal complex with the adaptor AP-3, the effector rabenosyn-5 and the motor KIF3, which possibly coordinates cargo segregation on SEs. Consistent with this, inactivation of rabenosyn-5, KIF3A or KIF3B phenocopied the defects observed in Rab4A-knockdown melanocytes. Further, rabenosyn-5 was found to associate with rabaptin-5 or Rabip4/4' (isoforms encoded by Rufy1) and differentially regulate cargo sorting from SEs. Thus, Rab4A acts a key regulator of cargo segregation on SEs.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Integration of two RAB5 groups during endosomal transport in plants

RAB5 is a key regulator of endosomal functions in eukaryotic cells. Plants possess two different RAB5 groups, canonical and plant-unique types, which act via unknown counteracting mechanisms. Here, we identified an effector molecule of the plant-unique RAB5 in Arabidopsis thaliana, ARA6, which we designated PLANT-UNIQUE RAB5 EFFECTOR 2 (PUF2). Preferential colocalization with canonical RAB5 on endosomes and genetic interaction analysis indicated that PUF2 coordinates vacuolar transport with canonical RAB5, although PUF2 was identified as an effector of ARA6. Competitive binding of PUF2 with GTP-bound ARA6 and GDP-bound canonical RAB5, together interacting with the shared activating factor VPS9a, showed that ARA6 negatively regulates canonical RAB5-mediated vacuolar transport by titrating PUF2 and VPS9a. These results suggest a unique and unprecedented function for a RAB effector involving the integration of two RAB groups to orchestrate endosomal trafficking in plant cells.

Integration of two RAB5 groups during endosomal transport in plants

RAB5 is a key regulator of endosomal functions in eukaryotic cells. Plants possess two different RAB5 groups, canonical and plant-unique types, which act via unknown counteracting mechanisms. Here, we identified an effector molecule of the plant-unique RAB5 in Arabidopsis thaliana, ARA6, which we designated PLANT-UNIQUE RAB5 EFFECTOR 2 (PUF2). Preferential colocalization with canonical RAB5 on endosomes and genetic interaction analysis indicated that PUF2 coordinates vacuolar transport with canonical RAB5, although PUF2 was identified as an effector of ARA6. Competitive binding of PUF2 with GTP-bound ARA6 and GDP-bound canonical RAB5, together interacting with the shared activating factor VPS9a, showed that ARA6 negatively regulates canonical RAB5-mediated vacuolar transport by titrating PUF2 and VPS9a. These results suggest a unique and unprecedented function for a RAB effector involving the integration of two RAB groups to orchestrate endosomal trafficking in plant cells.

Living cells often contain compartments that pass proteins, fats and other biological molecules to one another via a process called membrane trafficking. Endosomes are one of the key platforms of membrane trafficking. These structures accumulate molecules from the outside of the cell, sort them, and then redirect them back to the cell surface or send them to other compartments within the cell where they can be broken down. Proteins known as RAB5s regulate many of the activities of endosomes. Some are found in a wide range of organisms, including animals, fungi, and plants, and are referred to as the “canonical” RAB5 group. Another group of RAB5 proteins are unique to land plants and some green algae.

The existence of two RAB5 groups (i.e. canonical and plant-unique) is a distinctive feature of plant cells. In 2011, researchers showed that a plant-unique RAB5 could interfere with and counteract the activities of a canonical RAB5. However, it remained ambiguous how these proteins could do this.

To resolve this question, Ito et al. – who include several researchers from the 2011 study – set out to find proteins that interact with a plant-unique RAB5 from Arabidopsis thaliana. The experiments identified one partner of a plant-unique RAB5, which was named PUF2. Unexpectedly, further experiments revealed that PUF2 also regulates canonical RAB5. PUF2 was found on the surface of the endosome together with RAB5s and a protein that activates RAB5s. Notably, PUF2 also interacted with the activating factor and the inactive form of canonical RAB5.

Based on these findings, Ito et al. propose that PUF2 acts as a landmark to bring inactive canonical RAB5 close to its activating factor, which helps to activate canonical RAB5. They suggest that the plant-unique RAB5 also competitively binds to the landmark and blocks the canonical RAB5.

Membrane trafficking is a universal system for all living organisms, yet the system seems to be customized among different organisms. These new findings provide further evidence that land plants have evolved a unique mechanism to regulate the activities of their endosomes. The next step is to reconstruct how this system evolved and unravel its relevance to the evolution of plant-specific traits.

The Golgi-localized, gamma ear-containing, ARF-binding (GGA) protein family alters alpha synuclein (α-syn) oligomerization and secretion

Several age-related neurodegenerative disorders are associated with protein misfolding and aggregation of toxic peptides. α-synuclein (α-syn) aggregation and the resulting cytotoxicity is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD) as well as dementia with Lewy bodies. Rising evidence points to oligomeric and pre-fibrillar forms as the pathogenic species, and oligomer secretion seems to be crucial for the spreading and progression of PD pathology. Recent studies implicate that dysfunctions in endolysosomal/autophagosomal pathways increase α-syn secretion. Mutation in the retromer-complex protein VPS35, which is involved in endosome to Golgi transport, was suggested to cause familial PD. GGA proteins regulate vesicular traffic between Golgi and endosomes and might work as antagonists for retromer complex mediated transport. To investigate the role of the GGAs in the α-syn oligomerization and/or secretion process we utilized protein-fragment complementation assays (PCA). We here demonstrate that GGAs alter α-syn oligomer secretion and α-syn oligomer-mediated toxicity. Specifically, we determined that GGA3 modifies extracellular α-syn species in an exosome-independent manner. Our data suggest that GGA3 drives α-syn oligomerization in endosomal compartments and thus facilitates α-syn oligomer secretion. Preventing the early events in α-syn oligomer release may be a novel approach to halt disease spreading in PD and other synucleinopathies.

AP-4 mediates export of ATG9A from the trans-Golgi network to promote autophagosome formation

AP-4 is a member of the heterotetrameric adaptor protein (AP) complex family involved in protein sorting in the endomembrane system of eukaryotic cells. Interest in AP-4 has recently risen with the discovery that mutations in any of its four subunits cause a form of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) with intellectual disability. The critical sorting events mediated by AP-4 and the pathogenesis of AP-4 deficiency, however, remain poorly understood. Here we report the identification of ATG9A, the only multispanning membrane component of the core autophagy machinery, as a specific AP-4 cargo. AP-4 promotes signal-mediated export of ATG9A from the trans-Golgi network to the peripheral cytoplasm, contributing to lipidation of the autophagy protein LC3B and maturation of preautophagosomal structures. These findings implicate AP-4 as a regulator of autophagy and altered autophagy as a possible defect in AP-4-deficient HSP.

Dual role of the Toxoplasma gondii clathrin adaptor AP1 in the sorting of rhoptry and microneme proteins and in parasite division

Toxoplasma gondii possesses a highly polarized secretory system, which efficiently assembles de novo micronemes and rhoptries during parasite replication. These apical secretory organelles release their contents into host cells promoting parasite invasion and survival. Using a CreLox-based inducible knock-out strategy and the ddFKBP over-expression system, we unraveled novel functions of the clathrin adaptor complex TgAP1. First, our data indicate that AP1 in T. gondii likely functions as a conserved heterotetrameric complex composed of the four subunits γ, β, μ1, σ1 and interacts with known regulators of clathrin-mediated vesicular budding such as the unique ENTH-domain containing protein, which we named Epsin-like protein (TgEpsL). Disruption of the μ1 subunit resulted in the mis-sorting of microneme proteins at the level of the Trans-Golgi-Network (TGN). Furthermore, we demonstrated that TgAP1 regulates rhoptry biogenesis by activating rhoptry protein exit from the TGN, but also participates in the post-Golgi maturation process of preROP compartments into apically anchored club-shaped mature organelles. For this latter activity, our data indicate a specific functional relationship between TgAP1 and the Rab5A-positive endosome-like compartment. In addition, we unraveled an original role for TgAP1 in the regulation of parasite division. APμ1-depleted parasites undergo normal daughter cell budding and basal complex assembly but fail to segregate at the end of cytokinesis.

The phylum Apicomplexa comprises a large group of obligate intracellular parasites of wide human and agricultural significance. Most notable are Plasmodium, the causative agent of malaria, and Toxoplasma gondii, one of the most common human parasites, responsible for disease of the developing fetus and immune-compromised individuals. Apicomplexa are characterized by the presence of an apical complex consisting of secretory organelles named micronemes (MIC) and rhoptries (ROP). MIC and ROP proteins, released upon host cell recognition, are essential for host cell invasion and parasite survival. After invasion, these organelles are neo-synthesized at each parasite replication cycle. In our study, we demonstrate a crucial role for the T. gondii clathrin adaptor complex AP1 in the vesicular transport of neo-synthesized MIC and ROP proteins, thereby regulating mature apical organelle formation. In addition, we unravel an original role for TgAP1 in the late stages of the parasite division process during daughter cell segregation. Therefore, our study provides new insights into key regulatory mechanisms of the vesicular trafficking system essential for host invasion and intracellular survival of Toxoplasma gondii.

Endocytosis of tight junction proteins and the regulation of degradation and recycling

Internalization of tight junction (TJ) proteins from the plasma membrane is a pivotal mechanism regulating TJ plasticity and function in both epithelial and endothelial barrier tissues. Once internalized, the TJ proteins enter complex vesicular machinery, where further trafficking is directly dependent on the initiating stimulus and downstream signaling pathways that regulate the sorting and destiny of TJ proteins, as well as on cell and barrier responses. The destiny of internalized TJ proteins is recycling to the plasma membrane or sorting to late endosomes and degradation. This review highlights recent advances in our knowledge of endocytosis and vesicular trafficking of TJ proteins in both epithelial and endothelial cells. A greater understanding of these processes may allow for the development of methods to modulate barrier permeability for drug delivery or prevent barrier dysfunction in disease states.

Primary Cilia in Cystic Kidney Disease

Primary cilia are small, antenna-like structures that detect mechanical and chemical cues and transduce extracellular signals. While mammalian primary cilia were first reported in the late 1800s, scientific interest in these sensory organelles has burgeoned since the beginning of the twenty-first century with recognition that primary cilia are essential to human health. Among the most common clinical manifestations of ciliary dysfunction are renal cysts. The molecular mechanisms underlying renal cystogenesis are complex, involving multiple aberrant cellular processes and signaling pathways, while initiating molecular events remain undefined. Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease is the most common renal cystic disease, caused by disruption of polycystin-1 and polycystin-2 transmembrane proteins, which evidence suggests must localize to primary cilia for proper function. To understand how the absence of these proteins in primary cilia may be remediated, we review intracellular trafficking of polycystins to the primary cilium. We also examine the controversial mechanisms by which primary cilia transduce flow-mediated mechanical stress into intracellular calcium. Further, to better understand ciliary function in the kidney, we highlight the LKB1/AMPK, Wnt, and Hedgehog developmental signaling pathways mediated by primary cilia and misregulated in renal cystic disease.

A fresh look at the function of Rabaptin5 on endosomes

Rab GTPases act as organizers of protein networks defining identities and functions of organelles of the endocytic and secretory pathways. Various modes of coordination between different Rabs drive the timely maturation and conversion of membranes. Endosomal Rab5 has been known as the prime example for self-activation via a feedback loop recruiting Rabaptin5, which is complexed with the Rab5 exchange factor Rabex5, and couples to Rab4-GTP. Among other effectors, Rab5 also recruits the Mon1/SAND1-Ccz1 complex that both activates Rab7 and dissociates Rabex5 for Rab5-to-Rab7 conversion of early-to-late endosomes. A detailed deletion analysis now revealed 2 separate binding sites each for Rab4-GTP and Rab5-GTP and indicates a feedforward mechanism of Rab5 activation. Rabaptin5/Rabex5 is recruited to endosomal membranes positive for Rab4-GTP and ubiquitinated cargo (binding to the ubiquitin binding site of Rabex5). This mechanism also suggests additional criteria for Rab5 inactivation concomitant with increasing Rab7-GTP levels. The disappearance of ubiquitinated cargo upon ESCRT-mediated formation of intraluminal vesicles and inactivation of Rab4 may also contribute to loss of Rab5 activation. Rabaptin5/Rabex5 thus may integrate several cues of maturation to perform Rab conversion. Furthermore Rab5 binding to Rabaptin5 appears to prevent uncontrolled progression to late endosomes.

Rab5 and its effector FHF contribute to neuronal polarity through dynein-dependent retrieval of somatodendritic proteins from the axon

An open question in cell biology is how the general intracellular transport machinery is adapted to perform specialized functions in polarized cells such as neurons. Here we illustrate this adaptation by elucidating a role for the ubiquitous small GTPase Ras-related protein in brain 5 (Rab5) in neuronal polarity. We show that inactivation or depletion of Rab5 in rat hippocampal neurons abrogates the somatodendritic polarity of the transferrin receptor and several glutamate receptor types, resulting in their appearance in the axon. This loss of polarity is not caused primarily by increased transport from the soma to the axon but rather by decreased retrieval from the axon to the soma. Retrieval is also dependent on the Rab5 effector Fused Toes (FTS)-Hook-FTS and Hook-interacting protein (FHIP) (FHF) complex, which interacts with the minus-end-directed microtubule motor dynein and its activator dynactin to drive a population of axonal retrograde carriers containing somatodendritic proteins toward the soma. These findings emphasize the importance of both biosynthetic sorting and axonal retrieval for the polarized distribution of somatodendritic receptors at steady state.

Association between Rare Variants in AP4E1, a Component of Intracellular Trafficking, and Persistent Stuttering

Stuttering is a common, highly heritable neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in the volitional control of speech. Whole-exome sequencing identified two heterozygous AP4E1 coding variants, c.1549G>A (p.Val517Ile) and c.2401G>A (p.Glu801Lys), that co-segregate with persistent developmental stuttering in a large Cameroonian family, and we observed the same two variants in unrelated Cameroonians with persistent stuttering. We found 23 other rare variants, including predicted loss-of-function variants, in AP4E1 in unrelated stuttering individuals in Cameroon, Pakistan, and North America. The rate of rare variants in AP4E1 was significantly higher in unrelated Pakistani and Cameroonian stuttering individuals than in population-matched control individuals, and coding variants in this gene are exceptionally rare in the general sub-Saharan West African, South Asian, and North American populations. Clinical examination of the Cameroonian family members failed to identify any symptoms previously reported in rare individuals carrying homozygous loss-of-function mutations in this gene. AP4E1 encodes the ε subunit of the heterotetrameric (ε-β4-μ4-σ4) AP-4 complex, involved in protein sorting at the trans-Golgi network. We found that the μ4 subunit of AP-4 interacts with NAGPA, an enzyme involved in the synthesis of the mannose 6-phosphate signal that targets acid hydrolases to the lysosome and the product of a gene previously associated with stuttering. These findings implicate deficits in intracellular trafficking in persistent stuttering.

Bivalent Motif-Ear Interactions Mediate the Association of the Accessory Protein Tepsin with the AP-4 Adaptor Complex

The heterotetrameric (ϵ-β4-μ4-σ4) complex adaptor protein 4 (AP-4) is a component of a non-clathrin coat involved in protein sorting at the trans-Golgi network (TGN). Considerable interest in this complex has arisen from the recent discovery that mutations in each of its four subunits are the cause of a congenital intellectual disability and movement disorder in humans. Despite its physiological importance, the structure and function of this coat remain poorly understood. To investigate the assembly of the AP-4 coat, we dissected the determinants of interaction of AP-4 with its only known accessory protein, the ENTH/VHS-domain-containing protein tepsin. Using a variety of protein interaction assays, we found that tepsin comprises two phylogenetically conserved peptide motifs, [GS]LFXG[ML]X[LV] and S[AV]F[SA]FLN, within its C-terminal unstructured region, which interact with the C-terminal ear (or appendage) domains of the β4 and ϵ subunits of AP-4, respectively. Structure-based mutational analyses mapped the binding site for the [GS]LFXG[ML]X[LV] motif to a conserved, hydrophobic surface on the β4-ear platform fold. Both peptide-ear interactions are required for efficient association of tepsin with AP-4, and for recruitment of tepsin to the TGN. The bivalency of the interactions increases the avidity of tepsin for AP-4 and may enable cross-linking of multiple AP-4 heterotetramers, thus contributing to the assembly of the AP-4 coat. In addition to revealing critical aspects of this coat, our findings extend the paradigm of peptide-ear interactions, previously established for clathrin-AP-1/AP-2 coats, to a non-clathrin coat.

Rabaptin5 is recruited to endosomes by Rab4 and Rabex5 to regulate endosome maturation

Rab GTPases control membrane identity, fusion and transport by interaction with effector proteins. Effectors that influence the activation-inactivation cycle of their own or other Rab proteins contribute to the timely conversion of Rab membrane identities. Rab5 and its effector rabaptin5 (Rbpt5, also known as RABEP1) are generally considered the prime example for a positive-feedback loop in which Rab5-GTP recruits Rbpt5 in complex with Rabex5 (also known as RABGEF1), the GDP/GTP exchange factor of Rab5, to early endosomes, thus maintaining the Rab5 membrane identity. By deletion analysis, we found that the membrane recruitment of Rabaptin5 required binding to Rab4 and Rabex5, but not Rab5. Deletion of either one of the two Rab5-binding domains or silencing of Rab5 expression did not affect Rabaptin5 recruitment, but produced giant endosomes with early and late endosomal characteristics. The results contradict the model of feedback activation of Rab5 and instead indicate that Rbpt5 is recruited by both Rabex5 recognizing ubiquitylated cargo and by Rab4 to activate Rab5 in a feed-forward manner.

The Golgi-Localized γ-Ear-Containing ARF-Binding (GGA) Proteins Alter Amyloid-β Precursor Protein (APP) Processing through Interaction of Their GAE Domain with the Beta-Site APP Cleaving Enzyme 1 (BACE1)

Proteolytic processing of amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) by beta-site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) is the initial step in the production of amyloid beta (Aβ), which accumulates in senile plaques in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Essential for this cleavage is the transport and sorting of both proteins through endosomal/Golgi compartments. Golgi-localized γ-ear-containing ARF-binding (GGA) proteins have striking cargo-sorting functions in these pathways. Recently, GGA1 and GGA3 were shown to interact with BACE1, to be expressed in neurons, and to be decreased in AD brain, whereas little is known about GGA2. Since GGA1 impacts Aβ generation by confining APP to the Golgi and perinuclear compartments, we tested whether all GGAs modulate BACE1 and APP transport and processing. We observed decreased levels of secreted APP alpha (sAPPα), sAPPβ, and Aβ upon GGA overexpression, which could be reverted by knockdown. GGA-BACE1 co-immunoprecipitation was impaired upon GGA-GAE but not VHS domain deletion. Autoinhibition of the GGA1-VHS domain was irrelevant for BACE1 interaction. Our data suggest that all three GGAs affect APP processing via the GGA-GAE domain.

Ciliary membrane proteins traffic through the Golgi via a Rabep1/GGA1/Arl3-dependent mechanism

Primary cilia contain specific receptors and channel proteins that sense the extracellular milieu. Defective ciliary function causes ciliopathies such as autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). However, little is known about how large ciliary transmembrane proteins traffic to the cilia. Polycystin-1 (PC1) and -2 (PC2), the two ADPKD gene products, are large transmembrane proteins that co-localize to cilia where they act to control proper tubular diameter. Here we describe that PC1 and PC2 must interact and form a complex to reach the trans-Golgi network (TGN) for subsequent ciliary targeting. PC1 must also be proteolytically cleaved at a GPS site for this to occur. Using yeast two-hybrid screening coupled with a candidate approach, we identify a Rabep1/GGA1/Arl3-dependent ciliary targeting mechanism, whereby Rabep1 couples the polycystin complex to a GGA1/Arl3-based ciliary trafficking module at the TGN. This study provides novel insights into the ciliary trafficking mechanism of membrane proteins.

Characterization of Rabaptin-5 γ isoform

Rab GTPases are key regulators of intracellular membrane traffic acting through their effector molecules. Rabaptin-5 is a Rab5 effector in early endosome fusion and connects Rab5- and Rab4-positive membrane compartments owing to its ability to interact with Rab4 GTPase. Recent studies showed that Rabaptin-5 transcript is subjected to extensive alternative splicing, thus resulting in expression of Rabaptin-5 isoforms mostly bearing short deletions in the polypeptide chain. As interactions of a Rab GTPase with different effectors lead to different responses, functional characterization of Rabaptin-5 isoforms becomes an attractive issue. Indeed, it was shown that Rab GTPase effector properties of Rabaptin-5 and its α and δ isoforms are different. This work focused on another Rabaptin-5 isoform, Rabaptin-5γ. Despite its ability to interact with Rab5, endogenously produced Rabaptin-5γ was absent from early endosomes. Rather, it was found to be tightly associated with trans-Golgi network and partially localized to a Rab4-positive membrane compartment. The revealed intracellular localization of Rabaptin-5γ indicates that it is not involved in Rab5-driven events; rather, it functions in other membrane transport steps. Our study signifies the role of alternative splicing in determination of functional activities of Rab effector molecules.

Application of Gaussia luciferase in bicistronic and non-conventional secretion reporter constructs

Background

Secreted luciferases are highly useful bioluminescent reporters for cell-based assays and drug discovery. A variety of secreted luciferases from marine organisms have been described that harbor an N-terminal signal peptide for release along the classical secretory pathway. Here, we have characterized the secretion of Gaussia luciferase in more detail.

Results

We describe three basic mechanisms by which GLUC can be released from cells: first, classical secretion by virtue of the N-terminal signal peptide; second, internal signal peptide-mediated secretion and third, non-conventional secretion in the absence of an N-terminal signal peptide. Non-conventional release of dNGLUC is not stress-induced, does not require autophagy and can be enhanced by growth factor stimulation. Furthermore, we have identified the golgi-associated, gamma adaptin ear containing, ARF binding protein 1 (GGA1) as a suppressor of release of dNGLUC.

Conclusions

Due to its secretion via multiple secretion pathways GLUC can find multiple applications as a research tool to study classical and non-conventional secretion. As GLUC can also be released from a reporter construct by internal signal peptide-mediated secretion it can be incorporated in a novel bicistronic secretion system.

Molecular mechanism for Rabex-5 GEF activation by Rabaptin-5

Rabex-5 and Rabaptin-5 function together to activate Rab5 and further promote early endosomal fusion in endocytosis. The Rabex-5 GEF activity is autoinhibited by the Rabex-5 CC domain (Rabex-5CC) and activated by the Rabaptin-5 C2-1 domain (Rabaptin-5C21) with yet unknown mechanism. We report here the crystal structures of Rabex-5 in complex with the dimeric Rabaptin-5C21 (Rabaptin-5C21₂) and in complex with Rabaptin-5C21₂ and Rab5, along with biophysical and biochemical analyses. We show that Rabex-5CC assumes an amphipathic α-helix which binds weakly to the substrate-binding site of the GEF domain, leading to weak autoinhibition of the GEF activity. Binding of Rabaptin-5C21 to Rabex-5 displaces Rabex-5CC to yield a largely exposed substrate-binding site, leading to release of the GEF activity. In the ternary complex the substrate-binding site of Rabex-5 is completely exposed to bind and activate Rab5. Our results reveal the molecular mechanism for the regulation of the Rabex-5 GEF activity.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.02687.001

Cells need to allow various molecules to pass through the plasma membrane on their surface. Some molecules have to enter the cell, whereas others have to leave. Cells rely on a process called endocytosis to move large molecules into the cell. This involves part of the membrane engulfing the molecule to form a ‘bubble’ around it. This bubble, which is called an endosome, then moves the molecule to final destination inside the cell.

A protein called Rab5 controls how a new endosome is produced. However, before this can happen, various other molecules—including two proteins called Rabex-5 and Rabaptin-5—must activate the Rab5 protein. Exactly how these three proteins interact with each other was unknown.

Zhang et al. used X-ray crystallography to examine the structures of the complexes formed when Rabex-5 and Rabaptin-5 bind to each other, both when Rab5 is present, and also when it is absent. Biochemical and biophysical experiments confirmed that the Rabex-5/Rabaptin-5 complex is able to activate Rab5.

Zhang et al. also found that Rabex-5, on its own, folds so that the site that normally binds to Rab5 instead binds to a different part of Rabex-5, thus preventing endocytosis. However, when Rabaptin-5 forms a complex with Rabex-5, the Rab5 binding site is freed up.

The Rabex-5/Rabaptin-5 complex can switch between a V shape and a linear structure. Binding to Rab5 stabilizes the linear form of the complex, which then helps activate Rab5, and subsequently the activated Rab5 can interact with other downstream molecules, triggering endocytosis.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.02687.002

Co-assembly of viral envelope glycoproteins regulates their polarized sorting in neurons

Newly synthesized envelope glycoproteins of neuroinvasive viruses can be sorted in a polarized manner to the somatodendritic and/or axonal domains of neurons. Although critical for transneuronal spread of viruses, the molecular determinants and interregulation of this process are largely unknown. We studied the polarized sorting of the attachment (NiV-G) and fusion (NiV-F) glycoproteins of Nipah virus (NiV), a paramyxovirus that causes fatal human encephalitis, in rat hippocampal neurons. When expressed individually, NiV-G exhibited a non-polarized distribution, whereas NiV-F was specifically sorted to the somatodendritic domain. Polarized sorting of NiV-F was dependent on interaction of tyrosine-based signals in its cytosolic tail with the clathrin adaptor complex AP-1. Co-expression of NiV-G with NiV-F abolished somatodendritic sorting of NiV-F due to incorporation of NiV-G•NiV-F complexes into axonal transport carriers. We propose that faster biosynthetic transport of unassembled NiV-F allows for its proteolytic activation in the somatodendritic domain prior to association with NiV-G and axonal delivery of NiV-G•NiV-F complexes. Our study reveals how interactions of viral glycoproteins with the host's transport machinery and between themselves regulate their polarized sorting in neurons.

Neurons are highly polarized cells exhibiting somatodendritic and axonal domains with distinct protein and lipid compositions. Some enveloped viruses target neurons by binding of the viral envelope glycoproteins to neuronal surface receptors. The ensuing fusion of the viral and neuronal membranes delivers the genetic material of the virus into the neurons. During viral replication in neurons, newly synthesized envelope glycoproteins are sorted to the somatodendritic and/or axonal domains. Although critical for viral propagation, the mechanisms responsible for this sorting are largely unknown. We studied the neuronal sorting of the attachment (NiV-G) and fusion (NiV-F) glycoproteins of Nipah virus, a pathogen that causes fatal human encephalitis. When analyzed individually, NiV-G was delivered to both the axonal and somatodendritic domains. In contrast, NiV-F was exclusively targeted to the somatodendritic domain by virtue of interaction of specific signals in this protein with AP-1, a component of the neuronal protein transport machinery. Assembly with NiV-G, however, abolished somatodendritic sorting of NiV-F due to incorporation of complexes into axon-bound vesicles. Thus, coordinated interactions of viral glycoproteins with the host's sorting machinery and between themselves allow temporal and spatial regulation of their distribution in neurons. We propose that this coordination facilitates viral spread among neurons.

Rab proteins implicated in lipid storage and mobilization

Abnormal intracellular accumulation or transport of lipids contributes greatly to the pathogenesis of human diseases. In the liver, excess accumulation of triacylglycerol (TG) leads to fatty liver disease encompassing steatosis, steatohepatitis and fibrosis. This places individuals at risk of developing cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma or hepatic decompensation and also contributes to the emergence of insulin resistance and dyslipidemias affecting many other organs. Excessive accumulation of TG in adipose tissue contributes to insulin resistance as well as to the release of cytokines attracting leucocytes leading to a pro-inflammatory state. Pathological accumulation of cholesteryl ester (CE) in macrophages in the arterial wall is the progenitor of atherosclerotic plaques and heart disease. Overconsumption of dietary fat, cholesterol and carbohydrates explains why these diseases are on the increase yet offers few clues for how to prevent or treat individuals. Dietary regimes have proven futile and barring surgery, no realistic alternatives are at hand as effective drugs are few and not without side effects. Overweight and obesity-related diseases are no longer restricted to the developed world and as such, constitute a global problem. Development of new drugs and treatment strategies are a priority yet requires as a first step, elucidation of the molecular pathophysiology underlying each associated disease state. The lipid droplet (LD), an up to now overlooked intracellular organelle, appears at the heart of each pathophysiology linking key regulatory and metabolic processes as well as constituting the site of storage of both TGs and CEs. As the molecular machinery and mechanisms of LDs of each cell type are being elucidated, regulatory proteins used to control various cellular processes are emerging. Of these and the subject of this review, small GTPases belonging to the Rab protein family appear as important molecular switches used in the regulation of the intracellular trafficking and storage of lipids.

Rab5 isoforms orchestrate a "division of labor" in the endocytic network; Rab5C modulates Rac-mediated cell motility

Rab5, the prototypical Rab GTPase and master regulator of the endocytic pathway, is encoded as three differentially expressed isoforms, Rab5A, Rab5B and Rab5C. Here, we examined the differential effects of Rab5 isoform silencing on cell motility and report that Rab5C, but neither Rab5A nor Rab5B, is selectively associated with the growth factor-activation of Rac1 and with enhanced cell motility. Initial observations revealed that silencing of Rab5C expression, but neither Rab5A nor Rab5C, led to spindle-shaped cells that displayed reduced formation of membrane ruffles. When subjected to a scratch wound assay, cells depleted of Rab5C, but not Rab5A or Rab5B, demonstrated reduced cell migration. U937 cells depleted of Rab5C also displayed reduced cell motility in a Transwell plate migration assay. To examine activation of Rac, HeLa cells stably expressing GFP-Rac1 were independently depleted of Rab5A, Rab5B or Rab5C and seeded onto coverslips imprinted with a crossbow pattern. 3-D GFP-Rac1 images of micro-patterned cells show that GFP-Rac1 was less localized to the cell periphery in the absence of Rab5C. To confirm the connection between Rab5C and Rac activation, HeLa cells depleted of Rab5 isoforms were starved and then stimulated with EGF. Rac1 pull-down assays revealed that EGF-stimulated Rac1 activity was significantly suppressed in Rab5C-suppressed cells. To determine whether events upstream of Rac activation were affected by Rab5C, we observed that EGF-stimulated Akt phosphorylation was suppressed in cells depleted of Rab5C. Finally, since spatio-temporal assembly/disassembly of adhesion complexes are essential components of cell migration, we examined the effect of Rab5 isoform depletion on the formation of focal adhesion complexes. Rab5C-depleted HeLa cells have significantly fewer focal adhesion foci, in accordance with the lack of persistent lamellipodial protrusions and reduced directional migration. We conclude that Rab5 isoforms selectively oversee the multiple signaling and trafficking events associated with the endocytic network.

Vps9 family protein Muk1 is the second Rab5 guanosine nucleotide exchange factor in budding yeast

VPS9 domains can act as guanosine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) against small G proteins of the Rab5 family. Saccharomyces cerevisiae vps9Δ mutants have trafficking defects considerably less severe than multiple deletions of the three cognate Rab5 paralogs (Vps21, Ypt52, and Ypt53). Here, we show that Muk1, which also contains a VPS9 domain, acts as a second GEF against Vps21, Ypt52, and Ypt53. Muk1 is partially redundant with Vps9 in vivo, with vps9Δ muk1Δ double mutant cells displaying hypersensitivity to temperature and ionic stress, as well as profound impairments in endocytic and Golgi endosome trafficking, including defects in sorting through the multivesicular body. Cells lacking both Vps9 and Muk1 closely phenocopy double and triple knock-out strains lacking Rab5 paralogs. Microscopy and overexpression experiments demonstrate that Vps9 and Muk1 have distinct localization determinants. These experiments establish Muk1 as the second Rab5 GEF in budding yeast.

Role of adaptor proteins in secretory granule biogenesis and maturation

In the regulated secretory pathway, secretory granules (SGs) store peptide hormones that are released on demand. SGs are formed at the trans-Golgi network and must undergo a maturation process to become responsive to secretagogues. The production of mature SGs requires concentrating newly synthesized soluble content proteins in granules whose membranes contain the appropriate integral membrane proteins. The mechanisms underlying the sorting of soluble and integral membrane proteins destined for SGs from other proteins are not yet well understood. For soluble proteins, luminal pH and divalent metals can affect aggregation and interaction with surrounding membranes. The trafficking of granule membrane proteins can be controlled by both luminal and cytosolic factors. Cytosolic adaptor proteins (APs), which recognize the cytosolic domains of proteins that span the SG membrane, have been shown to play essential roles in the assembly of functional SGs. Adaptor protein 1A (AP-1A) is known to interact with specific motifs in its cargo proteins and with the clathrin heavy chain, contributing to the formation of a clathrin coat. AP-1A is present in patches on immature SG membranes, where it removes cargo and facilitates SG maturation. AP-1A recruitment to membranes can be modulated by Phosphofurin Acidic Cluster Sorting protein 1 (PACS-1), a cytosolic protein which interacts with both AP-1A and cargo that has been phosphorylated by casein kinase II. A cargo/PACS-1/AP-1A complex is necessary to drive the appropriate transport of several cargo proteins within the regulated secretory pathway. The Golgi-localized, γ-ear containing, ADP-ribosylation factor binding (GGA) family of APs serve a similar role. We review the functions of AP-1A, PACS-1, and GGAs in facilitating the retrieval of proteins from immature SGs and review examples of cargo proteins whose trafficking within the regulated secretory pathway is governed by APs.

The unique GGA clathrin adaptor of Drosophila melanogaster is not essential

The Golgi-localized, γ-ear-containing, ARF binding proteins (GGAs) are a highly conserved family of monomeric clathrin adaptor proteins implicated in clathrin-mediated protein sorting between the trans-Golgi network and endosomes. GGA RNAi knockdowns in Drosophila have resulted in conflicting data concerning whether the Drosophila GGA (dGGA) is essential. The goal of this study was to define the null phenotype for the unique Drosophila GGA. We describe two independently derived dGGA mutations. Neither allele expresses detectable dGGA protein. Homozygous and hemizygous flies with each allele are viable and fertile. In contrast to a previous report using RNAi knockdown, GGA mutant flies show no evidence of age-dependent retinal degeneration or cathepsin missorting. Our results demonstrate that several of the previous RNAi knockdown phenotypes were the result of off-target effects. However, GGA null flies are hypersensitive to dietary chloroquine and to starvation, implicating GGA in lysosomal function and autophagy.

AP-1 clathrin adaptor and CG8538/Aftiphilin are involved in Notch signaling during eye development in Drosophila melanogaster

Clathrin adaptor protein complex-1 (AP-1) and its accessory proteins play a role in the sorting of integral membrane proteins at the trans-Golgi network and endosomes. Their physiological functions in complex organisms, however, are not fully understood. In this study, we found that CG8538p, an uncharacterized Drosophila protein, shares significant structural and functional characteristics with Aftiphilin, a mammalian AP-1 accessory protein. The Drosophila Aftiphilin was shown to interact directly with the ear domain of γ-adaptin of Drosophila AP-1, but not with the GAE domain of Drosophila GGA. In S2 cells, Drosophila Aftiphilin and AP-1 formed a complex and colocalized at the Golgi compartment. Moreover, tissue-specific depletion of AP-1 or Aftiphilin in the developing eyes resulted in a disordered alignment of photoreceptor neurons in larval stage and roughened eyes with aberrant ommatidia in adult flies. Furthermore, AP-1-depleted photoreceptor neurons showed an intracellular accumulation of a Notch regulator, Scabrous, and downregulation of Notch by promoting its degradation in the lysosomes. These results suggest that AP-1 and Aftiphilin are cooperatively involved in the intracellular trafficking of Notch during eye development in Drosophila.

Signal-mediated, AP-1/clathrin-dependent sorting of transmembrane receptors to the somatodendritic domain of hippocampal neurons

Plasma membranes of the somatodendritic and axonal domains of neurons are known to have different protein compositions, but the molecular mechanisms that determine this polarized protein distribution remain poorly understood. Herein we show that somatodendritic sorting of various transmembrane receptors in rat hippocampal neurons is mediated by recognition of signals within the cytosolic domains of the proteins by the μ1A subunit of the adaptor protein-1 (AP-1) complex. This complex, in conjunction with clathrin, functions in the neuronal soma to exclude somatodendritic proteins from axonal transport carriers. Perturbation of this process affects dendritic spine morphology and decreases the number of synapses. These findings highlight the primary recognition event that underlies somatodendritic sorting and contribute to the evolving view of AP-1 as a global regulator of cell polarity.

Distinct and overlapping roles for AP-1 and GGAs revealed by the "knocksideways" system

Although adaptor protein complex 1 (AP-1) and Golgi-localized, γ ear-containing, ADP-ribosylation factor-binding proteins (GGAs) are both adaptors for clathrin-mediated intracellular trafficking, the pathways they mediate and their relationship to each other remain open questions. To tease apart the functions of AP-1 and GGAs, we rapidly inactivated each adaptor using the "knocksideways" system and then compared the protein composition of clathrin-coated vesicle (CCV) fractions from control and knocksideways cells. The AP-1 knocksideways resulted in a dramatic and unexpected loss of GGA2 from CCVs. Over 30 other peripheral membrane proteins and over 30 transmembrane proteins were also depleted, including several mutated in genetic disorders, indicating that AP-1 acts as a linchpin for intracellular CCV formation. In contrast, the GGA2 knocksideways affected only lysosomal hydrolases and their receptors. We propose that there are at least two populations of intracellular CCVs: one containing both GGAs and AP-1 for anterograde trafficking and another containing AP-1 for retrograde trafficking. Our study shows that knocksideways and proteomics are a powerful combination for investigating protein function, which can potentially be used on many different types of proteins.

The clathrin adaptor AP-1A mediates basolateral polarity

Clathrin and the epithelial-specific clathrin adaptor AP-1B mediate basolateral trafficking in epithelia. However, several epithelia lack AP-1B, and mice knocked out for AP-1B are viable, suggesting the existence of additional mechanisms that control basolateral polarity. Here, we demonstrate a distinct role of the ubiquitous clathrin adaptor AP-1A in basolateral protein sorting. Knockdown of AP-1A causes missorting of basolateral proteins in MDCK cells, but only after knockdown of AP-1B, suggesting that AP-1B can compensate for lack of AP-1A. AP-1A localizes predominantly to the TGN, and its knockdown promotes spillover of basolateral proteins into common recycling endosomes, the site of function of AP-1B, suggesting complementary roles of both adaptors in basolateral sorting. Yeast two-hybrid assays detect interactions between the basolateral signal of transferrin receptor and the medium subunits of both AP-1A and AP-1B. The basolateral sorting function of AP-1A reported here establishes AP-1 as a major regulator of epithelial polarity.

Endosomal sorting by Semaphorin 4A in retinal pigment epithelium supports photoreceptor survival

Photoreceptor cell death is the hallmark of a group of human inherited retinal degeneration. Although the causative genetic mutations are often known, the mechanisms leading to photoreceptor degeneration remain poorly defined. Here, we show that Semaphorin 4A (Sema4A), a member of axonal guidance molecule semaphorin, plays a role in Rab11/FIP2-mediated endosomal sorting in retinal pigment epithelial cells to support photoreceptor function. In response to oxidative stress, Sema4A switches the endosomal sorting of the lysosomal precursor protein prosaposin from the lysosome to the exosomal release, which prevents light-induced photoreceptor apoptosis. In the absence of oxidative stress, Sema4A sorts retinoid-binding proteins with retinoids between the cell surface and endoplasmic reticulum, by which 11-cis-retinal, a chromophore for phototransduction, is regenerated and transported back to photoreceptors. Owing to defects in these processes, Sema4A-deficient mice exhibit marked photoreceptor degeneration. Our findings therefore indicate that Sema4A regulates two distinct endosomal-sorting pathways that are critical for photoreceptor survival and phototransduction during the transition between daylight and darkness.

GGA3 functions as a switch to promote Met receptor recycling, essential for sustained ERK and cell migration

Cells are dependent on correct sorting of activated receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) for the outcome of growth factor signaling. Upon activation, RTKs are coupled through the endocytic machinery for degradation or recycled to the cell surface. However, the molecular mechanisms governing RTK recycling are poorly understood. Here, we show that Golgi-localized gamma ear-containing Arf-binding protein 3 (GGA3) interacts selectively with the Met/hepatocyte growth factor RTK when stimulated, to sort it for recycling in association with "gyrating" clathrin. GGA3 loss abrogates Met recycling from a Rab4 endosomal subdomain, resulting in pronounced trafficking of Met toward degradation. Decreased Met recycling attenuates ERK activation and cell migration. Met recycling, sustained ERK activation, and migration require interaction of GGA3 with Arf6 and an unexpected association with the Crk adaptor. The data show that GGA3 defines an active recycling pathway and support a broader role for GGA3-mediated cargo selection in targeting receptors destined for recycling.

Rab protein evolution and the history of the eukaryotic endomembrane system

Spectacular increases in the quantity of sequence data genome have facilitated major advances in eukaryotic comparative genomics. By exploiting homology with classical model organisms, this makes possible predictions of pathways and cellular functions currently impossible to address in intractable organisms. Echoing realization that core metabolic processes were established very early following evolution of life on earth, it is now emerging that many eukaryotic cellular features, including the endomembrane system, are ancient and organized around near-universal principles. Rab proteins are key mediators of vesicle transport and specificity, and via the presence of multiple paralogues, alterations in interaction specificity and modification of pathways, contribute greatly to the evolution of complexity of membrane transport. Understanding system-level contributions of Rab proteins to evolutionary history provides insight into the multiple processes sculpting cellular transport pathways and the exciting challenges that we face in delving further into the origins of membrane trafficking specificity.

Ubiquitin regulates GGA3-mediated degradation of BACE1

BACE1 (beta-site amyloid precursor protein-cleaving enzyme 1) is a membrane-tethered member of the aspartyl proteases, essential for the production of beta-amyloid, a toxic peptide that accumulates in the brain of subjects affected by Alzheimer disease. The BACE1 C-terminal fragment contains a DXXLL motif that has been shown to bind the VHS (VPS27, Hrs, and STAM) domain of GGA1-3 (Golgi-localized gamma-ear-containing ARF-binding proteins). GGAs are trafficking molecules involved in the transport of proteins containing the DXXLL signal from the Golgi complex to endosomes. Moreover, GGAs bind ubiquitin and traffic synthetic and endosomal ubiquitinated cargoes to lysosomes. We have previously shown that depletion of GGA3 results in increased BACE1 levels and activity because of impaired lysosomal degradation. Here, we report that the accumulation of BACE1 is rescued by the ectopic expression of GGA3 in H4 neuroglioma cells depleted of GGA3. Accordingly, the overexpression of GGA3 reduces the levels of BACE1 and beta-amyloid. We then established that mutations in the GGA3 VPS27, Hrs, and STAM domain (N91A) or in BACE1 di-leucine motif (L499A/L500A), able to abrogate their binding, did not affect the ability of ectopically expressed GGA3 to rescue BACE1 accumulation in cells depleted of GGA3. Instead, we found that BACE1 is ubiquitinated at lysine 501 and is mainly monoubiquitinated and Lys-63-linked polyubiquitinated. Finally, a GGA3 mutant with reduced ability to bind ubiquitin (GGA3L276A) was unable to regulate BACE1 levels both in rescue and overexpression experiments. These findings indicate that levels of GGA3 tightly and inversely regulate BACE1 levels via interaction with ubiquitin sorting machinery.

Functional characterization of protein-sorting machineries at the trans-Golgi network in Drosophila melanogaster

Targeting of proteins to their final destination is a prerequisite for living cells to maintain their homeostasis. Clathrin functions as a coat that forms transport carriers called clathrin-coated vesicles (CCVs) at the plasma membrane and post-Golgi compartments. In this study, we established an experimental system using Schneider S2 cells derived from the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as a model system to study the physiological roles of clathrin adaptors, and to dissect the processes of CCV formation. We found that a clathrin adaptor Drosophila GGA (dGGA), a homolog of mammalian GGA proteins, localizes to the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and is capable of recruiting clathrin from the cytosol onto TGN membranes. dGGA itself is recruited from the cytosol to the TGN in an ARF1 small GTPase (dARF79F)-dependent manner. dGGA recognizes the cytoplasmic acidic-cluster-dileucine (ACLL) sorting signal of Lerp (lysosomal enzyme receptor protein), a homolog of mammalian mannose 6-phosphate receptors. Moreover, both dGGA and another type of TGN-localized clathrin adaptor, AP-1 (adaptor protein-1 complex), are shown to be involved in the trafficking of Lerp from the TGN to endosomes and/or lysosomes. Taken together, our findings indicate that the protein-sorting machinery in fly cells is well conserved relative to that in mammals, enabling the use of fly cells to dissect CCV biogenesis and clathrin-dependent protein trafficking at the TGN of higher eukaryotes.

GGA autoinhibition revisited

The cytosolic adaptors GGA1-3 mediate sorting of transmembrane proteins displaying a C-terminal acidic dileucine motif (DXXLL) in their cytosolic domain. GGA1 and GGA3 contain similar but intrinsic motifs that are believed to serve as autoinhibitory sites activated by the phosphorylation of a serine positioned three residues upstream of the DXXLL motif. In the present study, we have subjected the widely acknowledged concept of GGA1 autoinhibition to a thorough structural and functional examination. We find that (i) the intrinsic motif of GGA1 is inactive, (ii) only C-terminal DXXLL motifs constitute active GGA binding sites, (iii) while aspartates and phosphorylated serines one or two positions upstream of the DXXLL motif increase GGA1 binding, phosphoserines further upstream have little or no influence and (iv) phosphorylation of GGA1 does not affect its conformation or binding to Sortilin and SorLA. Taken together, our findings seem to refute the functional significance of GGA autoinhibition in particular and of intrinsic GGA binding motifs in general.

Large Arf1 guanine nucleotide exchange factors: evolution, domain structure, and roles in membrane trafficking and human disease

The Sec7 domain ADP-ribosylation factor (Arf) guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) are found in all eukaryotes, and are involved in membrane remodeling processes throughout the cell. This review is focused on members of the GBF/Gea and BIG/Sec7 subfamilies of Arf GEFs, all of which use the class I Arf proteins (Arf1-3) as substrates, and play a fundamental role in trafficking in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)—Golgi and endosomal membrane systems. Members of the GBF/Gea and BIG/Sec7 subfamilies are large proteins on the order of 200 kDa, and they possess multiple homology domains. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that both of these subfamilies of Arf GEFs have members in at least five out of the six eukaryotic supergroups, and hence were likely present very early in eukaryotic evolution. The homology domains of the large Arf1 GEFs play important functional roles, and are involved in interactions with numerous protein partners. The large Arf1 GEFs have been implicated in several human diseases. They are crucial host factors for the replication of several viral pathogens, including poliovirus, coxsackievirus, mouse hepatitis coronavirus, and hepatitis C virus. Mutations in the BIG2 Arf1 GEF have been linked to autosomal recessive periventricular heterotopia, a disorder of neuronal migration that leads to severe malformation of the cerebral cortex. Understanding the roles of the Arf1 GEFs in membrane dynamics is crucial to a full understanding of trafficking in the secretory and endosomal pathways, which in turn will provide essential insights into human diseases that arise from misregulation of these pathways.

The tumor-associated antigen EBAG9 negatively regulates the cytolytic capacity of mouse CD8+ T cells

CTLs eliminate virus-infected and tumorigenic cells through exocytosis of cytotoxic agents from lytic granules. While insights into the intracellular mechanisms facilitating lytic granule release have been obtained through analysis of loss-of-function mutations in humans and mice, there is a paucity of information on negative regulators of secretory lysosome release at the molecular level. By generating and analyzing estrogen receptor-binding fragment-associated antigen 9-KO (Ebag9 KO) mice, we show here that loss of EBAG9 confers CTLs with enhanced cytolytic capacity in vitro and in vivo. Although loss of EBAG9 did not affect lymphocyte development, it led to an increase in CTL secretion of granzyme A, a marker of lytic granules. This resulted in increased cytotoxicity in vitro and an enhanced cytolytic primary and memory T cell response in vivo. We further found that EBAG9 interacts with the adaptor molecule gamma2-adaptin, suggesting EBAG9 is involved in endosomal-lysosomal biogenesis and membrane fusion. Indeed, granzyme B was sorted to secretory lysosomes more efficiently in EBAG9-deficient CTLs than it was in WT CTLs, a finding consistent with the observed enhanced kinetics of cathepsin D proteolytic processing. While EBAG9 deficiency did not disrupt the formation of the immunological synapse, lytic granules in Ebag9-/- CTLs were smaller than in WT CTLs. These data suggest that EBAG9 is a tunable inhibitor of CTL-mediated adaptive immune response functions.