A novel adaptor-related protein complex

Neuronal and non-neuronal functions of the AP-3 sorting machinery

Vesicles selectively exchange lipids, membrane proteins and luminal contents between organelles along the exocytic and endocytic routes. The repertoire of membrane proteins present in these vesicles is crucial for their targeting and function. Vesicle composition is determined at the time of their biogenesis by cytosolic coats. The heterotetrameric protein adaptor protein complex 3 (AP-3), a coat component, participates in the generation of a diverse group of secretory organelles and lysosome-related organelles. Recent work has shed light on the mechanisms that regulate AP-3 and the trafficking pathways controlled by this adaptor. Phenotypic analysis of organisms carrying genetic deficiencies in the AP-3 pathway highlight its role regulating the targeting of lysosomal, melanosomal and synaptic vesicle-specific membrane proteins. Synaptic vesicles from AP-3-deficient mice possess altered levels of neurotransmitter and ion transporters, molecules that ultimately define the type and amount of neurotransmitter stored in these vesicles. These findings reveal a complex picture of how AP-3 functions in multiple tissues, including neuronal tissue, and expose potential links between endocytic sorting mechanisms and the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia.

Comparative proteomics of clathrin-coated vesicles

Clathrin-coated vesicles (CCVs) facilitate the transport of cargo between the trans-Golgi network, endosomes, and the plasma membrane. This study presents the first comparative proteomics investigation of CCVs. A CCV-enriched fraction was isolated from HeLa cells and a "mock CCV" fraction from clathrin-depleted cells. We used a combination of 2D difference gel electrophoresis and isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) in conjunction with mass spectrometry to analyze and compare the two fractions. In total, 63 bona fide CCV proteins were identified, including 28 proteins whose association with CCVs had not previously been established. These include numerous post-Golgi SNAREs; subunits of the AP-3, retromer, and BLOC-1 complexes; lysosomal enzymes; CHC22; and five novel proteins of unknown function. The strategy outlined in this paper should be widely applicable as a means of distinguishing genuine organelle components from contaminants.

Functional analysis of AP-2 alpha and mu2 subunits

The AP-2 adaptor complex plays a key role in cargo recognition and clathrin-coated vesicle formation at the plasma membrane. To investigate the functions of individual binding sites and domains of the AP-2 complex in vivo, we have stably transfected HeLa cells with wild-type and mutant small interfering RNA-resistant alpha and mu2 subunits and then used siRNA knockdowns to deplete the endogenous proteins. Mutating the PtdIns(4,5)P2 binding site of alpha, the phosphorylation site of mu2, or the YXXPhi binding site of mu2 impairs AP-2 function, as assayed by transferrin uptake. In contrast, removing the C-terminal appendage domain of alpha, or mutating the PtdIns(4,5)P2 binding site of mu2, has no apparent effect. However, adding a C-terminal GFP tag to alpha renders it completely nonfunctional. These findings demonstrate that there is some functional redundancy in the binding sites of the various AP-2 subunits, because no single mutation totally abolishes function. They also help to explain why GFP-tagged AP-2 never appears to leave the plasma membrane in some live cell imaging studies. Finally, they establish a new model system that can be used both for additional structure-function analyses, and as a way of testing tagged constructs for function in vivo.

Regulation of large dense-core vesicle volume and neurotransmitter content mediated by adaptor protein 3

Adaptor protein 3 (AP-3) is a vesicle-coat protein that forms a heterotetrameric complex. Two types of AP-3 subunits are found in mammalian cells. Ubiquitous AP-3 subunits are expressed in all tissues of the body, including the brain. In addition, there are neuronal AP-3 subunits that are thought to serve neuron-specific functions such as neurotransmitter release. In this study, we show that overexpression of neuronal AP-3 in mouse chromaffin cells results in a striking decrease in the neurotransmitter content of individual vesicles (quantal size), whereas deletion of all AP-3 produces a dramatic increase in quantal size; these changes were correlated with alterations in dense-core vesicle size. AP-3 appears to localize in the trans-Golgi network and possibly immature secretory vesicles, where it may be involved in the formation of neurosecretory vesicles.

Laa1p, a conserved AP-1 accessory protein important for AP-1 localization in yeast

AP-1 and Gga adaptors participate in clathrin-mediated protein transport between the trans-Golgi network and endosomes. Both adaptors contain homologous domains that act to recruit accessory proteins involved in clathrin-coated vesicle formation, but the spectrum of known adaptor-binding partners is limited. This study describes an evolutionarily conserved protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Laa1p (Yjl207cp), that interacts and functions specifically with AP-1. Deletion of LAA1, when combined with a conditional mutation in clathrin heavy chain or deletion of GGA genes, accentuated growth defects and increased disruption of clathrin-dependent alpha-factor maturation and transport of carboxypeptidase Y to the vacuole. In contrast, such genetic interactions were not observed between deletions of LAA1 and AP-1 subunit genes. Laa1p preferentially interacted with AP-1 compared with Gga proteins by glutathione S-transferase-fusion affinity binding and coimmunoprecipitations. Localization of AP-1 and Laa1p, but not Gga proteins, was highly sensitive to brefeldin A, an inhibitor of ADP-ribosylation factor (Arf) activation. Importantly, deletion of LAA1 caused mislocalization of AP-1, especially in cells at high density (postdiauxic shift), but it did not affect Gga protein distribution. Our results identify Laa1p as a new determinant of AP-1 localization, suggesting a model in which Laa1p and Arf cooperate to direct stable association of AP-1 with appropriate intracellular membranes.

Sorting of major cargo glycoproteins into clathrin-coated vesicles

The AP-1 and AP-2 complexes are the most abundant adaptors in clathrin-coated vesicles (CCVs), but clathrin-mediated trafficking can still occur in the absence of any detectable AP-1 or AP-2. To find out whether adaptor abundance reflects cargo abundance, we used lectin pulldowns to identify the major membrane glycoproteins in CCVs from human placenta and rat liver. Both preparations contained three prominent high molecular-weight proteins: the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CIMPR), carboxypeptidase D (CPD) and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1). To investigate how these proteins are sorted, we constructed and stably transfected CD8 chimeras into HeLa cells. CD8-CIMPR localized mainly to early/tubular endosomes, CD8-CPD to the trans Golgi network and CD8-LRP1 to late/multivesicular endosomes. All three constructs redistributed to the plasma membrane when clathrin was depleted by siRNA. CD8-CIMPR was also strongly affected by AP-2 depletion. CD8-CPD was moderately affected by AP-2 depletion but strongly affected by depleting AP-1 and AP-2 together. CD8-LRP1 was only slightly affected by AP-2 depletion; however, mutating an NPXY motif in the LRP1 tail caused it to become AP-2 dependent. These results indicate that all three proteins have AP-dependent sorting signals, which may help to explain the relative abundance of AP complexes in CCVs. However, the relatively low abundance of cargo proteins in CCV preparations suggests either that some of the APs may be empty or that the preparations may be dominated by empty coats.

Intestinal disease in Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome: occurrence of colitis and relation to genotype

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS), a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by oculocutaneous albinism and platelet dysfunction, results from mutations in 1 of at least 7 different genes. Some patients develop a fatal pulmonary fibrosis and others a disabling colitis. This study aimed to document the occurrence of colitis among HPS patients, characterize gastrointestinal tract involvement in HPS, and analyze the distribution of colitis among HPS genotypes.

METHODS

Of the 122 HPS patients followed at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center between 1993 and 2005, 24 were evaluated by endoscopy for gastrointestinal complaints. The histology of gastrointestinal biopsies was retrospectively examined to assess for inflammatory changes, granulomata, and pigmented macrophages. These data were compared with symptoms and HPS genetic subtypes.

RESULTS

At colonoscopy, 7 of 23 patients (30%) had endoscopic mucosal abnormalities, including nodularity, erythema, petechiae, or erosions. Six of these 7 patients (86%) had findings of colitis on biopsy. Of the 16 patients with normal-appearing colonic mucosa, 2 patients (12%) had colitis on biopsy. Pigmented macrophages were also observed in the colonic lamina propria in 16 of the 23 patients (70%). Of the 8 patients with confirmed colitis, 7 had the HPS-1 subtype, and 1 had the HPS-4 subtype.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an increased frequency of colitis in our population of 122 HPS patients (8/122, 7%) and in HPS patients referred specifically for symptom evaluation (8/24, 33%). Colitis was found in patients with HPS-1 and HPS-4 genotypes.

Functions of adaptor protein (AP)-3 and AP-1 in tyrosinase sorting from endosomes to melanosomes

Specialized cells exploit adaptor protein complexes for unique post-Golgi sorting events, providing a unique model system to specify adaptor function. Here, we show that AP-3 and AP-1 function independently in sorting of the melanocyte-specific protein tyrosinase from endosomes to the melanosome, a specialized lysosome-related organelle distinguishable from lysosomes. AP-3 and AP-1 localize in melanocytes primarily to clathrin-coated buds on tubular early endosomes near melanosomes. Both adaptors recognize the tyrosinase dileucine-based melanosome sorting signal, and tyrosinase largely colocalizes with each adaptor on endosomes. In AP-3-deficient melanocytes, tyrosinase accumulates inappropriately in vacuolar and multivesicular endosomes. Nevertheless, a substantial fraction still accumulates on melanosomes, concomitant with increased association with endosomal AP-1. Our data indicate that AP-3 and AP-1 function in partially redundant pathways to transfer tyrosinase from distinct endosomal subdomains to melanosomes and that the AP-3 pathway ensures that tyrosinase averts entrapment on internal membranes of forming multivesicular bodies.

Clathrin is required for the function of the mitotic spindle

Clathrin has an established function in the generation of vesicles that transfer membrane and proteins around the cell. The formation of clathrin-coated vesicles occurs continuously in non-dividing cells, but is shut down during mitosis, when clathrin concentrates at the spindle apparatus. Here, we show that clathrin stabilizes fibres of the mitotic spindle to aid congression of chromosomes. Clathrin bound to the spindle directly by the amino-terminal domain of clathrin heavy chain. Depletion of clathrin heavy chain using RNA interference prolonged mitosis; kinetochore fibres were destabilized, leading to defective congression of chromosomes to the metaphase plate and persistent activation of the spindle checkpoint. Normal mitosis was rescued by clathrin triskelia but not the N-terminal domain of clathrin heavy chain, indicating that stabilization of kinetochore fibres was dependent on the unique structure of clathrin. The importance of clathrin for normal mitosis may be relevant to understanding human cancers that involve gene fusions of clathrin heavy chain.

AP-3 directs the intracellular trafficking of HIV-1 Gag and plays a key role in particle assembly

Gag proteins direct the process of retroviral particle assembly and form the major protein constituents of the viral core. The matrix region of the HIV-1 Gag polyprotein plays a critical role in the transport of Gag to the plasma membrane assembly site. Recent evidence indicates that Gag trafficking to late endosomal compartments, including multivesicular bodies, occurs prior to viral particle budding from the plasma membrane. Here we demonstrate that the matrix region of HIV-1 Gag interacts directly with the delta subunit of the AP-3 complex, and that this interaction plays an important functional role in particle assembly. Disruption of this interaction eliminated Gag trafficking to multivesicular bodies and diminished HIV particle formation. These studies illuminate an early step in retroviral particle assembly and provide evidence that the trafficking of Gag to late endosomes is part of a productive particle assembly pathway.

Genetic analysis of the neuronal and ubiquitous AP-3 adaptor complexes reveals divergent functions in brain

Neurons express adaptor (AP)-3 complexes assembled with either ubiquitous (beta3A) or neuronal-specific (beta3B) beta3 isoforms. However, it is unknown whether these complexes indeed perform distinct functions in neuronal tissue. Here, we explore this hypothesis by using genetically engineered mouse models lacking either beta3A- or beta3B-containing AP-3 complexes. Somatic and neurological phenotypes were specifically associated with the ubiquitous and neuronal adaptor deficiencies, respectively. At the cellular level, AP-3 isoforms were localized to distinct neuronal domains. beta3B-containing AP-3 complexes were preferentially targeted to neuronal processes. Consistently, beta3B deficiency compromised synaptic zinc stores assessed by Timm's staining and the synaptic vesicle targeting of membrane proteins involved in zinc uptake (ZnT3 and ClC-3). Surprisingly, despite the lack of neurological symptoms, beta3A-deficient mouse brain possessed significantly increased synaptic zinc stores and synaptic vesicle content of ZnT3 and ClC-3. These observations indicate that the functions of beta3A- and beta3B-containing complexes are distinct and divergent. Our results suggest that concerted nonredundant functions of neuronal and ubiquitous AP-3 provide a mechanism to control the levels of selected membrane proteins in synaptic vesicles.

Differential Use of Two AP-3-mediated Pathways by Lysosomal Membrane Proteins

The adaptor protein complex AP-3 is involved in the sorting of lysosomal membrane proteins to late endosomes/lysosomes. It is unclear whether AP-3-containing vesicles form at the trans-Golgi network (TGN) or early endosomes. We have compared the trafficking routes of endolyn/CD164 and 'typical' lysosomal membrane glycoproteins (lgp120/lamp-1 and CD63/lamp-3) containing cytosolic YXXPhi-targeting motifs preceded by asparagine and glycine, respectively. Endolyn, which has a NYHTL-motif, is concentrated in lysosomes, but also occurs in endosomes and at the cell surface. We observed predominant interaction of the NYHTL-motif with the mu-subunits of AP-3 in the yeast two-hybrid system. Endolyn was mislocalized to the cell surface in AP-3-deficient pearl cells, confirming a major role of AP-3 in endolyn traffic. However, lysosomal delivery of endolyn (or a NYHTL-reporter), but not GYXXPhi-containing proteins, was practically abolished when AP-2-mediated endocytosis or traffic from early to late endosomes was inhibited in NRK and 3T3 cells. This indicates that endolyn is mostly transported along the indirect lysosomal pathway (via the cell surface), rather than directly from the TGN to late endosomes/lysosomes. Our results suggest that AP-3 mediates lysosomal sorting of some membrane proteins in early endosomes in addition to sorting of proteins with intrinsically strong AP-3-interacting lysosomal targeting motifs at the TGN.

Adaptor protein complexes as the key regulators of protein sorting in the post-Golgi network

Adaptor protein (AP) complexes are cytosolic heterotetramers that mediate the sorting of membrane proteins in the secretory and endocytic pathways. AP complexes are involved in the formation of clathrin-coated vesicles (CCVs) by recruiting the scaffold protein, clathrin. AP complexes also play a pivotal role in the cargo selection by recognizing the sorting signals within the cytoplasmic tail of integral membrane proteins. Six distinct AP complexes have been identified. AP-2 mediates endocytosis from the plasma membrane, while AP-1, AP-3 and AP-4 play a role in the endosomal/lysosomal sorting pathways. Moreover, tissue-specific sorting events such as the basolateral sorting in polarized epithelial cells and the biogenesis of specialized organelles including melanosomes and synaptic vesicles are also regulated by members of AP complexes. The application of a variety of methodologies have gradually revealed the physiological role of AP complexes.

Biochemical characterization of the coating mechanism of the endosomal donor compartment of synaptic vesicles

The heterotetrameric adaptor protein complex, AP-3, sorts proteins to both the endosome/lysosome and the synaptic vesicles. We have characterized the recruitment of pure AP-3 complex and ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF) onto the endosomal donor compartments that give rise to synaptic vesicles. We demonstrated that endosomes become heavier in a sucrose gradient after incubation with rat brain cytosol and a nonhydrolyzable GTP analog, GTPgammaS. This process requires a small GTPase, ARF-1. Furthermore, the endosomal coating is specific for AP-3 but not the AP-2 complex. This process requires only two soluble proteins AP-3 and ARF, with the recruitment of AP-3 being saturable at about 30 nM. These results establish that the synaptic vesicle's donor membrane is coated with AP-3 before vesiculation, in a coat-protein-specific and dose-dependent fashion.

Localization of the AP-3 adaptor complex defines a novel endosomal exit site for lysosomal membrane proteins

The adaptor protein (AP) 3 adaptor complex has been implicated in the transport of lysosomal membrane proteins, but its precise site of action has remained controversial. Here, we show by immuno-electron microscopy that AP-3 is associated with budding profiles evolving from a tubular endosomal compartment that also exhibits budding profiles positive for AP-1. AP-3 colocalizes with clathrin, but to a lesser extent than does AP-1. The AP-3- and AP-1-bearing tubular compartments contain endocytosed transferrin, transferrin receptor, asialoglycoprotein receptor, and low amounts of the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor and the lysosome-associated membrane proteins (LAMPs) 1 and 2. Quantitative analysis revealed that of these distinct cargo proteins, only LAMP-1 and LAMP-2 are concentrated in the AP-3-positive membrane domains. Moreover, recycling of endocytosed LAMP-1 and CD63 back to the cell surface is greatly increased in AP-3-deficient cells. Based on these data, we propose that AP-3 defines a novel pathway by which lysosomal membrane proteins are transported from tubular sorting endosomes to lysosomes.

The vesicular acetylcholine transporter interacts with clathrin-associated adaptor complexes AP-1 and AP-2

In neuronal cells the neurotransmitter acetylcholine is transferred from the cytoplasm into synaptic vesicles by the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT). The cytoplasmic tail of VAChT has been shown to contain signals that direct its sorting and trafficking. The role of clathrin-associated protein complexes in VAChT sorting to synaptic vesicles has been examined. A fusion protein between the VAChT cytoplasmic tail and glutathione S-transferase was used to identify VAChT-clathrin-associated protein adaptor protein 1, adaptor protein 2 and adaptor protein 180 complexes from a rat brain extract. In vivo coimmunoprecipitation confirmed adaptin alpha and adaptin gamma complexes, but adaptor protein 180 complexes were not detected by this technique. Deletion and site directed mutagenesis show that the VAChT cytoplasmic tail contains multiple trafficking signals. These include a non-classical tyrosine motif that serves as the signal for adaptin alpha and a dileucine motif that serves as the signal for adaptin gamma. A classical tyrosine motif is also involved in VAChT trafficking, but does not interact with any known adaptor proteins. There appear to be two endocytosis motifs, one involving the adaptor protein 1 binding site and the other involving the adaptor protein 2 binding site. These results suggest a complex trafficking pathway for VAChT.

Neuronal Polarity and Trafficking

Among the most morphologically complex cells, neurons are masters of membrane specialization. Nowhere is this more striking than in the division of cellular labor between the axon and the dendrites. In morphology, signaling properties, cytoskeletal organization, and physiological function, axons and dendrites (or more properly, the somatodendritic compartment) are radically different. Such polarization of neurons into domains specialized for either receiving (dendrites) or transmitting (axons) cellular signals provides the underpinning for all neural circuitry. The initial specification of axonal and dendritic identity occurs early in neuronal life, persists for decades, and is manifested by the presence of very different sets of cell surface proteins. Yet, how neuronal polarity is established, how distinct axonal and somatodendritic domains are maintained, and how integral membrane proteins are directed to dendrites or accumulate in axons remain enduring and formidable questions in neuronal cell biology.

Clathrin-mediated endocytosis in AP-2-depleted cells

We have used RNA interference to knock down the AP-2 mu2 subunit and clathrin heavy chain to undetectable levels in HeLaM cells. Clathrin-coated pits associated with the plasma membrane were still present in the AP-2-depleted cells, but they were 12-fold less abundant than in control cells. No clathrin-coated pits or vesicles could be detected in the clathrin-depleted cells, and post-Golgi membrane compartments were swollen. Receptor-mediated endocytosis of transferrin was severely inhibited in both clathrin- and AP-2-depleted cells. Endocytosis of EGF, and of an LDL receptor chimera, were also inhibited in the clathrin-depleted cells; however, both were internalized as efficiently in the AP-2-depleted cells as in control cells. These results indicate that AP-2 is not essential for clathrin-coated vesicle formation at the plasma membrane, but that it is one of several endocytic adaptors required for the uptake of certain cargo proteins including the transferrin receptor. Uptake of the EGF and LDL receptors may be facilitated by alternative adaptors.

A tyrosine-based sorting signal is involved in connexin43 stability and gap junction turnover

The gap junction protein connexin43 is known to have a rapid turnover, involving degradation by both the proteasomal and lysosomal systems, but the structural features of connexin43 that govern these actions are not known. The connexin43 C-terminal sequence contains a proline-rich region corresponding to the consensus of a protein-protein interaction PY-motif (xPPxY), and an overlapping putative tyrosine-based sorting signal (Yxxphi; =hydrophobic), known to play a role in the intracellular trafficking of many membrane proteins. As both motifs may control turnover of connexin43, we used a combination of metabolic radiolabelling, immuno-precipitation and functional assays to determine the possible role of these motifs in controlling degradation of human connexin43 expressed in SKHep1 cells. Mutation V289D in the tyrosine-based sorting motif increased the steady-state pool of connexin43 by approximately 3.5-fold, while mutation P283L in the PY-motif produced a comparatively modest augmentation (1.7-fold). No additive effect was observed when the overlapping tyrosine was mutated. In pulse-chase experiments, the Y286A substitution increased the half-life of connexin43 from 2 to 6 hours, indicating that the increased steady-state levels reflected reduced protein degradation. Moreover, expression at the junctional membrane, as well as gap junction-mediated intercellular communication (GJC), were nearly abolished by lysosomal inhibitors and Brefeldin A in cells expressing wild-type connexin43, but were unaffected in the tyrosine mutant. These results provide strong evidence that the tyrosine-based motif of human connexin43 is a prime determinant controlling connexin43 stability, and consequently GJC, by targeting connexin43 for degradation in the endocytic/lysosomal compartment.

Evaluation of the delta subunit of bovine adaptor protein complex 3 as a receptor for bovine leukaemia virus

A candidate gene of the bovine leukaemia virus (BLV) receptor (BLVR) was cloned previously and predicted to encode a transmembrane protein. Subsequent cloning of related genes from other organisms indicated that the candidate gene is related, but unique, to a gene family of the delta subunit of the adaptor protein (AP) complex 3, AP-3. Therefore, bovine cDNAs (boAP3delta) that are highly homologous to the candidate gene were cloned and sequenced. The nucleotide sequences suggested that the boAP3delta cDNA encodes the delta subunit of boAP3 without transmembrane domains. Part of the AP3delta cDNA isolated from the lymph node, spleen and MDBK cells, from which the BLVR candidate cDNA was derived, has almost the same nucleotide sequences as the boAP3delta cDNA. A boAP3delta protein tagged with green fluorescent protein was localized in the cytoplasm and incorporated into AP-3 in bovine cells. Unlike the previous report about the candidate gene, the boAP3delta gene introduced into murine NIH 3T3 cells did not increase the susceptibility of the cells to BLV infection. Many small insertions and deletions of nucleotides could generate the predicted transmembrane and cytoplasmic regions of the BLVR protein from the prototypic boAP3delta gene.

The molecular machinery for the biogenesis of lysosome-related organelles: lessons from Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) defines a group of autosomal recessive disorders characterized by defects in lysosome-related organelles such as melanosomes and platelet dense granules. The genes that are defective in each of the different forms of HPS in humans, or in HPS-like disorders in mice, are thought to encode components of a putative molecular machinery required for the formation of specialized organelles of the lysosomal system. This review discusses the biochemical and functional properties of the products of identified HPS genes, which include subunits of the AP-3 complex and the novel proteins HPS1p, HPS3p, HPS4p, pallidin and muted.

Tyrosine-based endocytic motifs stimulate oligomerization of AP-2 adaptor complexes

The clathrin adaptor complex AP-2 functions in the assembly of clathrin-coated vesicles at the plasma membrane where it serves to couple endocytic vesicle formation to the selection of membrane cargo proteins. Recent evidence suggests that binding of tyrosine-based endocytic sorting motifs may induce a conformational change within the AP-2 adaptor complex that could enhance its interaction with other cargo molecules and with the membrane. We report here that soluble tyrosine-based endocytic sorting motif peptides facilitate clathrin/AP-2 recruitment to liposomal membranes and induce adaptor oligomerization even in the absence of a lipid bilayer. These effects are specific for endocytic motifs of the type Yxxphi whereas peptides corresponding to NPxY- or di-leucine-containing sorting signals are ineffective. Our data may help to explain how the highly cooperative assembly of clathrin and adaptors could be linked to the selection of membrane cargo proteins.

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome: vesicle formation from yeast to man

The disorders known as Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) are a group of genetic diseases resulting from abnormal formation of intracellular vesicles. In HPS, dysfunction of melanosomes results in oculocutaneous albinism, and absence of platelet dense bodies causes a bleeding diathesis. In addition, some HPS patients suffer granulomatous colitis or fatal pulmonary fibrosis, perhaps due to mistrafficking of a subset of lysosomes. The impaired function of specific organelles indicates that the causative genes encode proteins operative in the formation of certain vesicles. Four such genes, HPS1, ADTB3A, HPS3, and HPS4, are associated with the four known subtypes of HPS, i.e. HPS-1, HPS-2, HPS-3, and HPS-4. ADTB3A codes for the beta 3 A subunit of adaptor complex-3, known to assist in vesicle formation from the trans-Golgi network or late endosome. However, the functions of the HPS1, HPS3, and HPS4 gene products remain unknown. These three genes arose with the evolution of mammals and have no homologs in yeast, reflecting their specialized function. In contrast, all four known HPS-causing genes have homologs in mice, a species with 14 different models of HPS, i.e. hypopigmentation and a platelet storage pool deficiency. Pursuit of the mechanism of mammalian vesicle formation and trafficking, impaired in HPS, relies upon investigation of these mouse models as well as studies of protein complexes involved in yeast vacuole formation.

The beta2-adaptin clathrin adaptor interacts with the mitotic checkpoint kinase BubR1

The adaptor AP2 is a heterotetrameric complex that associates with clathrin and regulatory proteins to mediate rapid endocytosis from the plasma membrane. Here, we report the identification of the mitotic checkpoint kinase BubR1 as a novel binding partner of beta2-adaptin, one of the AP2 large subunits. Using two-hybrid experiments and in vitro binding assays, we show that beta2-adaptin binds to BubR1 through its amino-terminal beta2-'trunk' domain, while the beta2-binding region of BubR1 maps to the carboxy-terminal kinase domain. Subcellular immunolocalization studies suggest that the interaction between BubR1 and beta2-adaptin could take place in the cytosol at any time during the cell cycle. In addition, we found that BubR1 and the BubR1-related kinase, Bub1, also bind to beta-adaptins of other AP complexes. Together, these results support a model in which the mitotic checkpoint kinases BubR1 and BuB1, by binding to beta-adaptins, may play novel roles in the regulation of vesicular intracellular traffic.

Cloning, physical mapping and structural characterization of the human alpha(A)-adaptin gene

Adaptins are major structural components of heterotetrameric protein complexes called adaptors, which are involved in intracellular receptor transport via clathrin-coated vesicles. In mice, one of these adaptins has been shown to be encoded by two genes, alpha(A)-adaptin and alpha(C)-adaptin, the former of which is expressed as two alternatively spliced transcripts. Using positional cloning gene approaches, we were able to identify the human alpha(A)-adaptin gene, which consists of 24 exons spanning over 40 kb on chromosome 19q13.3 between the loci of the R-ras gene and the polynucleotide kinase phosphatase gene. The novel gene encodes a 977 amino acid, 107.6 kDa protein with 98% amino acid sequence identity to its murine ortholog. Human alpha(A)-adaptin is expressed as a full-length transcript in forebrain, skeletal muscle, spinal cord, cerebellum, salivary gland, heart and colon. It is also ubiquitously expressed in tissues and in ZR-75-1 breast cancer cells and LNCaP prostate carcinoma cells as a smaller variant generated by splicing out of an exon encoding 22 amino acids in the hinge region of the protein.

Vesicular protein transport

Protein transport and sorting in the secretory and endocytic pathways via vesicles is required for organelle biogenesis, constitutive and regulated secretion and constitutive and regulated endocytosis. It is essential for a multicellular organism and the function of its specialised cell types that the multiple transport and sorting events are highly accurate. They determine the protein and lipid composition of specialised compartments, receptor protein function and membrane homeostasis. This review describes the individual events involved in the process of vesicle mediated protein transport and sorting and summarizes the knowledge about the function of proteins and lipids orchestrating the process.

Role of adaptor complex AP-3 in targeting wild-type and mutated CD63 to lysosomes

CD63 is a lysosomal membrane protein that belongs to the tetraspanin family. Its carboxyterminal cytoplasmic tail sequence contains the lysosomal targeting motif GYEVM. Strong, tyrosine-dependent interaction of the wild-type carboxyterminal tail of CD63 with the AP-3 adaptor subunit mu 3 was observed using a yeast two-hybrid system. The strength of interaction of mutated tail sequences with mu 3 correlated with the degree of lysosomal localization of similarly mutated human CD63 molecules in stably transfected normal rat kidney cells. Mutated CD63 containing the cytosolic tail sequence GYEVI, which interacted strongly with mu 3 but not at all with mu 2 in the yeast two-hybrid system, localized to lysosomes in transfected normal rat kidney and NIH-3T3 cells. In contrast, it localized to the cell surface in transfected cells of pearl and mocha mice, which have genetic defects in genes encoding subunits of AP-3, but to lysosomes in functionally rescued mocha cells expressing the delta subunit of AP-3. Thus, AP-3 is absolutely required for the delivery of this mutated CD63 to lysosomes. Using this AP-3-dependent mutant of CD63, we have shown that AP-3 functions in membrane traffic from the trans-Golgi network to lysosomes via an intracellular route that appears to bypass early endosomes.

Trafficking of MHC class II molecules in the late secretory pathway

Antigen presenting cells (APCs) alert the immune system to attack by extracellular organisms; APCs achieve this via internalization, degradation, and display of antigenic fragments on the cell surface by MHC class II molecules. These class II molecules bind to an accessory protein, termed the invariant chain, that ensures proper folding of the molecules. Invariant-chain binding also directs class II molecules to lysosomes, which are probably the most important sites for antigen loading. Endosomes are intermediates in the transport of class-II-invariant chain complexes to antigen-processing compartments, whereas trafficking of class II-peptide complexes to the membrane (and beyond) is less-well understood. Unlike other APCs, dendritic cells alter their capacity to present peptides via MHC class II molecules during differentiation, revealing a complex level of regulated antigen-presentation by this APC subtype.

Assembly and function of AP-3 complexes in cells expressing mutant subunits

The mouse mutants mocha and pearl are deficient in the AP-3 delta and beta3A subunits, respectively. We have used cells from these mice to investigate both the assembly of AP-3 complexes and AP-3 function. In mocha cells, the beta3 and mu3 subunits coassemble into a heterodimer, whereas the sigma3 subunit remains monomeric. In pearl cells, the delta and sigma3 subunits coassemble into a heterodimer, whereas mu3 gets destroyed. The yeast two hybrid system was used to confirm these interactions, and also to demonstrate that the A (ubiquitous) and B (neuronal-specific) isoforms of beta3 and mu3 can interact with each other. Pearl cell lines were generated that express beta3A, beta3B, a beta3Abeta2 chimera, two beta3A deletion mutants, and a beta3A point mutant lacking a functional clathrin binding site. All six constructs assembled into complexes and were recruited onto membranes. However, only beta3A, beta3B, and the point mutant gave full functional rescue, as assayed by LAMP-1 sorting. The beta3Abeta2 chimera and the beta3A short deletion mutant gave partial functional rescue, whereas the beta3A truncation mutant gave no functional rescue. These results indicate that the hinge and/or ear domains of beta3 are important for function, but the clathrin binding site is not needed.

Biological basket weaving: formation and function of clathrin-coated vesicles

There has recently been considerable progress in understanding the regulation of clathrin-coated vesicle (CCV) formation and function. These advances are due to the determination of the structure of a number of CCV coat components at molecular resolution and the identification of novel regulatory proteins that control CCV formation in the cell. In addition, pathways of (a) phosphorylation, (b) receptor signaling, and (c) lipid modification that influence CCV formation, as well as the interaction between the cytoskeleton and CCV transport pathways are becoming better defined. It is evident that although clathrin coat assembly drives CCV formation, this fundamental reaction is modified by different regulatory proteins, depending on where CCVs are forming in the cell. This regulatory difference likely reflects the distinct biological roles of CCVs at the plasma membrane and trans-Golgi network, as well as the distinct properties of these membranes themselves. Tissue-specific functions of CCVs require even more-specialized regulation and defects in these pathways can now be correlated with human diseases.

The gene mutated in cocoa mice, carrying a defect of organelle biogenesis, is a homologue of the human Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome-3 gene

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) is a group of human disorders of organelle biogenesis characterized by defective synthesis of melanosomes, lysosomes, and platelet dense granules. In the mouse, at least 15 loci are associated with mutant phenotypes similar to human HPS. We have identified the gene mutated in cocoa (coa) mice, which is associated with an HPS-like mutant phenotype and thus represents a strong candidate for human HPS. Analysis of coa-mutant mice and cultured coa-mutant mouse melanocytes indicates that the normal coa gene product is involved in early stages of melanosome biogenesis and maturation.

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome type 3 in Ashkenazi Jews and other non-Puerto Rican patients with hypopigmentation and platelet storage-pool deficiency

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS), consisting of oculocutaneous albinism and a bleeding diathesis due to the absence of platelet dense granules, displays extensive locus heterogeneity. HPS1 mutations cause HPS-1 disease, and ADTB3A mutations cause HPS-2 disease, which is known to involve abnormal intracellular vesicle formation. A third HPS-causing gene, HPS3, was recently identified on the basis of homozygosity mapping of a genetic isolate of HPS in central Puerto Rico. We now describe the clinical and molecular characteristics of eight patients with HPS-3 who are of non-Puerto Rican heritage. Five are Ashkenazi Jews; three of these are homozygous for a 1303+1G-->A splice-site mutation that causes skipping of exon 5, deleting an RsaI restriction site and decreasing the amounts of mRNA found on northern blotting. The other two are heterozygous for the 1303+1G-->A mutation and for either an 1831+2T-->G or a 2621-2A-->G splicing mutation. Of 235 anonymous Ashkenazi Jewish DNA samples, one was heterozygous for the 1303+1G-->A mutation. One seven-year-old boy of German/Swiss extraction was compound heterozygous for a 2729+1G-->C mutation, causing skipping of exon 14, and resulting in a C1329T missense (R396W), with decreased mRNA production. A 15-year-old Irish/English boy was heterozygous for an 89-bp insertion between exons 16 and 17 resulting from abnormal splicing; his fibroblast HPS3 mRNA is normal in amount but is increased in size. A 12-year-old girl of Puerto Rican and Italian background has the 3,904-bp founder deletion from central Puerto Rico on one allele. All eight patients have mild symptoms of HPS; two Jewish patients had received the diagnosis of ocular, rather than oculocutaneous, albinism. These findings expand the molecular diagnosis of HPS, provide a screening method for a mutation common among Jews, and suggest that other patients with mild hypopigmentation and decreased vision should be examined for HPS.

GGAs: roles of the different domains and comparison with AP-1 and clathrin

We have previously identified a novel family of proteins called the GGAs (Golgi-localized, gamma-ear-containing, ADP-ribosylation factor-binding proteins). These proteins consist of an NH(2)-terminal VHS domain, followed by a GAT domain, a variable domain, and a gamma-adaptin ear homology domain. Studies from our own laboratory and others, making use of both yeast and mammals cells, indicate that the GGAs facilitate trafficking from the trans-Golgi network to endosomes. Here we have further investigated the function of the GGAs. We find that GGA-deficient yeast are not only defective in vacuolar protein sorting but they are also impaired in their ability to process alpha-factor. Using deletion mutants and chimeras, we show that the VHS domain is required for GGA function and that the VHS domain from Vps27p will not substitute for the GGA VHS domain. In contrast, the gamma-adaptin ear homology domain contributes to GGA function but is not absolutely required, and full function can be restored by replacing the GGA ear domain with the gamma-adaptin ear domain. Deleting the gamma-adaptin gene together with the two GGA genes exacerbates the phenotype in yeast, suggesting that they function on parallel pathways. In mammalian cells, the association of GGAs with the membrane is extremely unstable, which may account for their absence from purified clathrin-coated vesicles. Double- and triple-labeling immunofluorescence experiments indicate that the GGAs and AP-1 are associated with distinct populations of clathrin-coated vesicles budding from the trans-Golgi network. Together with results from other studies, our findings suggest that the GGAs act as monomeric adaptors, with the four domains involved in cargo selection, membrane localization, clathrin binding, and accessory protein recruitment.

Characterization of the murine gene corresponding to human Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome type 3: exclusion of the Subtle gray (sut) locus

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) consists of oculocutaneous albinism and a bleeding diathesis due to absent platelet dense bodies. In addition to exhibiting considerable phenotypic variation, this autosomal recessive disorder displays locus heterogeneity. One causative gene is HPS1, coding for a protein of unknown function and resulting in HPS-1 disease, common in northwest Puerto Rico. A second HPS-causing gene is ADTB3A, coding for the beta3A subunit of adaptor complex-3 (AP-3, a coat protein complex) and resulting in HPS-2 disease. Each of these HPS subtypes has a murine counterpart, specifically pale ear for HPS-1 and pearl for HPS-2. Recently, the HPS3 gene, responsible for HPS-3 disease in a genetic isolate of central Puerto Rico, was isolated and characterized. Its location on human chromosome 3q24 suggested that the mouse model corresponding to HPS-3 disease might be subtle gray. To examine this possibility, we determined the mouse HPS3 sequence, its genomic organization, and its amino acid sequence, which shares 95.8% identity with the human protein. We demonstrated that the subtle gray mouse produces a normal size and amount of HPS3 mRNA and has an entirely normal sequence in every exon and intron/exon boundary. Furthermore, subtle gray exhibits a normal contingent of platelet dense bodies. Together, these data eliminate subtle gray as a murine model for HPS-3 disease and suggest that other mouse models be examined.

Doublecortin interacts with mu subunits of clathrin adaptor complexes in the developing nervous system

Doublecortin is a microtubule-associated protein required for normal corticogenesis in the developing brain. We carried out a yeast two-hybrid screen to identify interacting proteins. One of the isolated clones encodes the mu1 subunit of the adaptor complex AP-1 involved in clathrin-dependent protein sorting. We found that Doublecortin also interacts in yeast with mu2 from the AP-2 complex. Mutagenesis and pull-down experiments showed that these interactions were mediated through a tyrosine-based sorting signal (YLPL) in the C-terminal part of Doublecortin. The functional relevance of these interactions was suggested by the coimmunoprecipitation of Doublecortin with AP-1 and AP-2 from mouse brain extracts. This interaction was further supported by RNA in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence studies. Taken together these data indicate that a certain proportion of Doublecortin interacts with AP-1 and/or AP-2 in vivo and are consistent with a potential involvement of Doublecortin in protein sorting or vesicular trafficking.

Adaptor-related proteins

Two new adaptor-related protein complexes, AP-3 and AP-4, have recently been identified, and both have been implicated in protein sorting at the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and/or endosomes. In addition, two families of monomeric proteins with adaptor-related domains, the GGAs and the stoned B family, have also been identified and shown to act at the TGN and plasma membrane, respectively. Together with the two conventional adaptors, AP-1 and AP-2, these proteins may act to direct different types of cargo proteins to different post-Golgi membrane compartments.

AP-3 mediates tyrosinase but not TRP-1 trafficking in human melanocytes

Patients with Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome type 2 (HPS-2) have mutations in the beta 3A subunit of adaptor complex-3 (AP-3) and functional deficiency of this complex. AP-3 serves as a coat protein in the formation of new vesicles, including, apparently, the platelet's dense body and the melanocyte's melanosome. We used HPS-2 melanocytes in culture to determine the role of AP-3 in the trafficking of the melanogenic proteins tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP-1). TRP-1 displayed a typical melanosomal pattern in both normal and HPS-2 melanocytes. In contrast, tyrosinase exhibited a melanosomal (i.e., perinuclear and dendritic) pattern in normal cells but only a perinuclear pattern in the HPS-2 melanocytes. In addition, tyrosinase exhibited a normal pattern of expression in HPS-2 melanocytes transfected with a cDNA encoding the beta 3A subunit of the AP-3 complex. This suggests a role for AP-3 in the normal trafficking of tyrosinase to premelanosomes, consistent with the presence of a dileucine recognition signal in the C-terminal portion of the tyrosinase molecule. In the AP-3-deficient cells, tyrosinase was also present in structures resembling late endosomes or multivesicular bodies; these vesicles contained exvaginations devoid of tyrosinase. This suggests that, under normal circumstances, AP-3 may act on multivesicular bodies to form tyrosinase-containing vesicles destined to fuse with premelanosomes. Finally, our studies demonstrate that tyrosinase and TRP-1 use different mechanisms to reach their premelanosomal destination.

Intracellular transport of MHC class II and associated invariant chain in antigen presenting cells from AP-3-deficient mocha mice

MHC class II-restricted antigen presentation requires trafficking of newly synthesized class II-invariant chain complexes from the trans-Golgi network to endosomal, peptide-loading compartments. This transport is mediated by dileucine-like motifs within the cytosolic tail of the invariant chain. Although these signals have been well characterized, the cytosolic proteins that interact with these dileucine signals and mediate Golgi sorting and endosomal transport have not been identified. Recently, an adaptor complex, AP-3, has been identified that interacts with dileucine motifs and mediates endosomal/lysosomal transport in yeast, Drosophila, and mammals. In this report, we have assessed class II-invariant chain trafficking in a strain of mice (mocha) which lacks expression of AP-3. Our studies demonstrate that the lack of AP-3 does not affect the kinetics of invariant chain degradation, the route of class II-invariant chain transport, or the rate and extent of class II-peptide binding as assessed by the generation of SDS-stable dimers. The possible role of other known or unknown adaptor complexes in class II-invariant chain transport is discussed.

Yeast Gga coat proteins function with clathrin in Golgi to endosome transport

Gga proteins represent a newly recognized, evolutionarily conserved protein family with homology to the "ear" domain of the clathrin adaptor AP-1 gamma subunit. Yeast cells contain two Gga proteins, Gga1p and Gga2p, that have been proposed to act in transport between the trans-Golgi network and endosomes. Here we provide genetic and physical evidence that yeast Gga proteins function in trans-Golgi network clathrin coats. Deletion of Gga2p (gga2Delta), the major Gga protein, accentuates growth and alpha-factor maturation defects in cells carrying a temperature-sensitive allele of the clathrin heavy chain gene. Cells carrying either gga2Delta or a deletion of the AP-1 beta subunit gene (apl2Delta) alone are phenotypically normal, but cells carrying both gga2Delta and apl2Delta are defective in growth, alpha-factor maturation, and transport of carboxypeptidase S to the vacuole. Disruption of both GGA genes and APL2 results in cells so severely compromised in growth that they form only microcolonies. Gga proteins can bind clathrin in vitro and cofractionate with clathrin-coated vesicles. Our results indicate that yeast Gga proteins play an important role in cargo-selective clathrin-mediated protein traffic from the trans-Golgi network to endosomes.

Neurobeachin: A protein kinase A-anchoring, beige/Chediak-higashi protein homolog implicated in neuronal membrane traffic

We describe the identification and initial characterization of neurobeachin, a neuron-specific multidomain protein of 327 kDa with a high-affinity binding site (K(d), 10 nm) for the type II regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (PKA RII). Neurobeachin is peripherally associated with pleomorphic tubulovesicular endomembranes near the trans sides of Golgi stacks and throughout the cell body and cell processes. It is also found in a subpopulation of synapses, where it is concentrated at the postsynaptic plasma membrane. In live cells, perinuclear neurobeachin is dispersed by brefeldin A (BFA) within 1 min, and in permeabilized cells a recruitment of neurobeachin from cytosol to Golgi-near membranes is stimulated by GTPgammaS and prevented by brefeldin A. Spots of neurobeachin recruitment are close to but distinct from recruitment sites of COP-I, AP-1, and AP-3 coat proteins involved in vesicle budding. These observations indicate that neurobeachin binding to membranes close to the trans-Golgi requires an ADP-ribosylation factor-like GTPase, possibly in association with a novel type of protein coat. A neurobeachin isoform that does not bind RII, beige-like protein (BGL), is expressed in many tissues. Neurobeachin, BGL, and approximately 10 other mammalian gene products share a characteristic C-terminal BEACH-WD40 sequence module, which is also present in gene products of invertebrates, plants, protozoans, and yeasts, thus defining a new protein family. The prototype member of this family of BEACH domain proteins, lysosomal trafficking regulator (LYST), is deficient in genetic defects of protein sorting in lysosome biogenesis (the beige mouse and Chediak-Higashi syndrome). Neurobeachin's subcellular localization, its coat protein-like membrane recruitment, and its sequence similarity to LYST suggest an involvement in neuronal post-Golgi membrane traffic, one of its functions being to recruit protein kinase A to the membranes with which it associates.

Dominant-interfering Hsc70 mutants disrupt multiple stages of the clathrin-coated vesicle cycle in vivo

Within the clathrin-coated vesicle (CCV) cycle, coat assembly drives the internalization of receptors from the cell surface and disassembly allows for the processing of internalized ligands. The heat shock cognate protein, hsc70, has been implicated in regulating coat disassembly. We find that in cells overexpressing ATPase-deficient hsc70 mutants, uncoating of CCVs is inhibited in vivo, and the majority of unassembled cytosolic clathrin shifts to an assembled pool that cofractionates with AP1 and AP2. Surprisingly, this assembled pool of coat proteins accumulates in the absence of cargo receptors, suggesting that disruption of hsc70 activity may cause misassembly of empty clathrin cages. The strongest effect of overexpression of hsc70 mutants is a block in transferrin receptor (TfnR) recycling, which cannot be accounted for by the degree of inhibition of uncoating of endocytic CCVs. These results suggest that hsc70 participates in multiple transport and/or sorting events between endosomal compartments. Additionally, the mutant-expressing cells are defective at internalizing transferrin. In the most potent case, the initial rate of uptake is inhibited 10-fold, and TfnR levels double at the cell surface. Our findings demonstrate that hsc70 indeed regulates coat disassembly and also suggest that this chaperone broadly modulates clathrin dynamics throughout the CCV cycle.

Distribution and function of AP-1 clathrin adaptor complexes in polarized epithelial cells

Expression of the epithelial cell-specific heterotetrameric adaptor complex AP-1B is required for the polarized distribution of many membrane proteins to the basolateral surface of LLC-PK1 kidney cells. AP-1B is distinguished from the ubiquitously expressed AP-1A by exchange of its single 50-kD mu subunit, mu1A, being replaced by the closely related mu1B. Here we show that this substitution is sufficient to couple basolateral plasma membrane proteins, such as a low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), to the AP-1B complex and to clathrin. The interaction between LDLR and AP-1B is likely to occur in the trans-Golgi network (TGN), as was suggested by the localization of functional, epitope-tagged mu1 by immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy. Tagged AP-1A and AP-1B complexes were found in the perinuclear region close to the Golgi complex and recycling endosomes, often in clathrin-coated buds and vesicles. Yet, AP-1A and AP-1B localized to different subdomains of the TGN, with only AP-1A colocalizing with furin, a membrane protein that uses AP-1 to recycle between the TGN and endosomes. We conclude that AP-1B functions by interacting with its cargo molecules and clathrin in the TGN, where it acts to sort basolateral proteins from proteins destined for the apical surface and from those selected by AP-1A for transport to endosomes and lysosomes.

The export of major histocompatibility complex class I molecules from the endoplasmic reticulum of rat brown adipose cells is acutely stimulated by insulin

Major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) molecules have been implicated in several nonimmunological functions including the regulation and intracellular trafficking of the insulin-responsive glucose transporter GLUT4. We have used confocal microscopy to compare the effects of insulin on the intracellular trafficking of MHC-I and GLUT4 in freshly isolated rat brown adipose cells. We also used a recombinant vaccinia virus (rVV) to express influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) as a generic integral membrane glycoprotein to distinguish global versus specific enhancement of protein export from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in response to insulin. In the absence of insulin, MHC-I molecules largely colocalize with the ER-resident protein calnexin and remain distinct from intracellular pools of GLUT4. Surprisingly, insulin induces the rapid export of MHC-I molecules from the ER with a concomitant approximately three-fold increase in their level on the cell surface. This ER export is blocked by brefeldin A and wortmannin but is unaffected by cytochalasin D, indicating that insulin stimulates the rapid transport of MHC-I molecules from the ER to the plasma membrane via the Golgi complex in a phosphatidyl-inositol 3-kinase-dependent and actin-independent manner. We further show that the effect of insulin on MHC-I molecules is selective, because insulin does not affect the intracellular distribution or cell-surface localization of rVV-expressed HA. These results demonstrate that in rat brown adipose cells MHC-I molecule export from the ER is stimulated by insulin and provide the first evidence that the trafficking of MHC-I molecules is acutely regulated by a hormone.

Neurobeachin: A protein kinase A-anchoring, beige/Chediak-higashi protein homolog implicated in neuronal membrane traffic

We describe the identification and initial characterization of neurobeachin, a neuron-specific multidomain protein of 327 kDa with a high-affinity binding site (K(d), 10 nm) for the type II regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (PKA RII). Neurobeachin is peripherally associated with pleomorphic tubulovesicular endomembranes near the trans sides of Golgi stacks and throughout the cell body and cell processes. It is also found in a subpopulation of synapses, where it is concentrated at the postsynaptic plasma membrane. In live cells, perinuclear neurobeachin is dispersed by brefeldin A (BFA) within 1 min, and in permeabilized cells a recruitment of neurobeachin from cytosol to Golgi-near membranes is stimulated by GTPgammaS and prevented by brefeldin A. Spots of neurobeachin recruitment are close to but distinct from recruitment sites of COP-I, AP-1, and AP-3 coat proteins involved in vesicle budding. These observations indicate that neurobeachin binding to membranes close to the trans-Golgi requires an ADP-ribosylation factor-like GTPase, possibly in association with a novel type of protein coat. A neurobeachin isoform that does not bind RII, beige-like protein (BGL), is expressed in many tissues. Neurobeachin, BGL, and approximately 10 other mammalian gene products share a characteristic C-terminal BEACH-WD40 sequence module, which is also present in gene products of invertebrates, plants, protozoans, and yeasts, thus defining a new protein family. The prototype member of this family of BEACH domain proteins, lysosomal trafficking regulator (LYST), is deficient in genetic defects of protein sorting in lysosome biogenesis (the beige mouse and Chediak-Higashi syndrome). Neurobeachin's subcellular localization, its coat protein-like membrane recruitment, and its sequence similarity to LYST suggest an involvement in neuronal post-Golgi membrane traffic, one of its functions being to recruit protein kinase A to the membranes with which it associates.

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome and related disorders of organelle formation

Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome (HPS) consists of a group of genetically heterogeneous disorders which share the clinical findings of oculocutaneous albinism, a platelet storage pool deficiency, and some degree of ceroid lipofuscinosis. Related diseases share some of these findings and may exhibit other symptoms and signs but the underlying defect in the entire group of disorders involves defective intracellular vesicle formation, transport or fusion. Two HPS-causing genes, HPS1 and ADTB3A, have been isolated but the function of only the latter has been determined. ADTB3A codes for the beta 3A subunit of adaptor complex-3, responsible for vesicle formation from the trans-Golgi network (TGN). The many HPS patients who do not have HPS1 or ADTB3A mutations have their disease because of mutations in other genes. Candidates for these HPS-causing genes include those responsible for mouse models of HPS or for the 'granule' group of eye color genes in Drosophila. Each gene responsible for a subset of HPS or a related disorder codes for a protein which almost certainly plays a pivotal role in vesicular trafficking, inextricably linking clinical and cell biological interests in this group of diseases.

The assembly of AP-3 adaptor complex-containing clathrin-coated vesicles on synthetic liposomes

The heterotetrameric adaptor protein complex AP-3 has been shown to function in the sorting of proteins to the endosomal/lysosomal system. However, the mechanism of AP-3 recruitment onto membranes is poorly understood, and it is still uncertain whether AP-3 nucleates clathrin-coated vesicles. Using purified components, we show that AP-3 and clathrin are recruited onto protein-free liposomes and Golgi-enriched membranes by a process that requires ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF) and GTP but no other proteins or nucleotides. The efficiency of recruitment onto the two sources of membranes is comparable and independent of the composition of the liposomes. Clathrin binding occurred in a cooperative manner as a function of the membrane concentration of AP-3. Thin-section electron microscopy of liposomes and Golgi-enriched membranes that had been incubated with AP-3, clathrin, and ARF.GTP showed the presence of clathrin-coated buds and vesicles. These results establish that AP-3-containing clathrin-coated vesicles form in vitro and are consistent with AP-3-dependent protein transport being mediated by clathrin-coated vesicles.

Defective organellar membrane protein trafficking in Ap3b1-deficient cells

AP-3 is a heterotetrameric protein complex involved in intracellular vesicle transport. Molecular analyses show that Ap3b1, which encodes the AP-3 (&bgr;)3A subunit, is altered in pearl mice. To provide genetic evidence that mutation of Ap3b1 is responsible for the pearl phenotype and to determine the null phenotype, the Ap3b1 gene was disrupted by homologous recombination. Mice homozygous for the resulting allele, Ap3b1(LN), or compound heterozygotes with pearl, displayed phenotypes similar to those of pearl mice, confirming that Ap3b1 is the causal gene for pearl. Moreover, pearl is likely to be a hypomorph as the Ap3b1(LN) homozygotes had a lighter coat color and accumulated fewer of the micro3 and (&dgr;)3 subunits of AP-3 than did pearl mice. Finally, immunofluorescence analysis of fibroblasts and melanocytes cultured from Ap3b1(LN) homozygotes revealed that the lysosomal membrane proteins Lamp I and Lamp II and the melanosomal membrane protein tyrosinase were mislocalized. In particular, the Lamp proteins were clustered on the cell surface. These findings strengthen the evidence for an alternate pathway via the plasma membrane for cargo normally transported to organelles by AP-3.

Distinct trafficking pathways mediate Nef-induced and clathrin-dependent major histocompatibility complex class I down-regulation

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Nef protein alters the post-Golgi stages of major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) biogenesis. Presumed mechanisms involve the disclosure of a cryptic tyrosine-based sorting signal (YSQA) located in the cytoplasmic tail of HLA-A and -B heavy chains. We changed this signal for a prototypic sorting motif (YSQI or YSQL). Modified HLA-A2 molecules, termed A2-endo, displayed constitutively low surface levels and accumulated in a region close to or within the Golgi apparatus, a behavior reminiscent of wild-type HLA-A2 in Nef-expressing cells. However, several lines of evidence indicate that the action of prototypic signals on MHC-I trafficking differs from that of Nef. Internalization of surface A2-endo was more rapid and was associated with efficient recycling to the surface. A transdominant-negative mutant of dynamin-1 inhibited A2-endo constitutive internalization and Nef-induced CD4 down-regulation, whereas it did not affect the activity of Nef on MHC-I. Moreover, trafficking of A2-endo was still affected by the viral protein, indicating additive effects of prototypic signals and Nef. Therefore, distinct trafficking pathways regulate clathrin-dependent and Nef-induced MHC-I modulation.

Bi-directional trafficking between the trans-Golgi network and the endosomal/lysosomal system

Protein transport in the secretory and endocytic pathways of eukaryotic cells is mediated by vesicular transport intermediates. Their formation is a tightly controlled multistep process in which coat components are recruited onto specific membranes, and cargo, as well as targeting molecules, become segregated into nascent vesicles. At the trans-Golgi network, two transport systems deliver cargo molecules to the endosomal system. They can be distinguished with regard to coat components that select cargo molecules. AP-1 assembly proteins mediate transport of MPRs and furin, whereas AP-3 adaptors mediate transport of lysosomal membrane glycoproteins to the endosomal/lysosomal system. The molecular basis for protein-specific sorting lies within sorting signals that are present in the cytoplasmic tails of cargo proteins and allow specific interactions with individual coat components. In order to maintain cellular homeostasis, some proteins are retrieved from endosomal compartments and transported back to the trans-Golgi network. Distinct points for protein retrieval exist within the endosomal system, retrieval occurring from either early or late endosomes. Whereas significant progress has been made in recent years in identifying anterograde and retrograde transport pathways, the molecular mechanisms underlying protein sorting and retrieval are only poorly defined. Recently, however, novel vesicle coats (e.g. AP-4) and proteins that might be involved in sorting (e.g. PACS-1 and TIP47) have been described, and the interactions between assembly proteins and sorting signals are becoming increasingly well defined.

Targeting of lysosomal proteins

Proper cell homeostasis requires the efficient transport of a large variety of soluble acid hydrolases and transmembrane proteins from the trans-Golgi network (TGN) to lysosomes. While most of these molecules reach this degradative compartment, some transmembrane proteins, in particular, the acid hydrolase receptors are retrieved to the TGN. This bidirectional transport process involves the formation of several vesicular transport intermediates in which cargo molecules are selectively packaged. This review summarizes our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms leading to the proper targeting of lysosomal proteins.