H-Ras signaling and K-Ras signaling are differentially dependent on endocytosis

Differential involvement of H- and K-Ras in Raf-1 activation determines the role of calmodulin in MAPK signaling

We have previously demonstrated that inhibition of calmodulin (CaM) and the concomitant reduction of PI3K interfere with H-Ras-mediated activation of Raf-1 [1]. In the present study, we show that CaM has completely opposite effects on K-Ras-mediated Raf-1 activation. The differential contribution of CaM in the regulation of Raf-1 kinase activity via K- or H-Ras correlates with the stimulatory or inhibitory effect of CaM on MAPK phosphorylation depending on the cell type analyzed. FRET microscopy and biochemical analysis show that inhibition of CaM increases K-Ras-GTP levels and consequently its association with Raf-1. Though inhibition of CaM, using the CaM antagonist W-13, significantly increased Raf-1 activation by K-Ras-GTP, MAPK activation downstream K-Ras/Raf-1 was strongly reduced in COS-1 and several other cell lines. In contrast, in other cell lines such as NIH3T3-wt8, W-13-mediated inhibition of CaM increased Raf-1 activity, but resulted in an increase in MAPK phosphorylation. These findings suggest that modulation of K-Ras activity via CaM regulates MAPK signaling only in certain cell types. In support of this hypothesis, the comparison of H- and K-Ras expression, GTP loading and Raf-1 interaction in COS-1 and NIH3T3-wt8 suggests that the overall role of CaM in MAPK signal output is determined by the ratio of activated H- and K-Ras and the cell-specific contribution of each isoform in Raf-1 activation.

RCP is a human breast cancer-promoting gene with Ras-activating function

Aggressive forms of cancer are often defined by recurrent chromosomal alterations, yet in most cases, the causal or contributing genetic components remain poorly understood. Here, we utilized microarray informatics to identify candidate oncogenes potentially contributing to aggressive breast cancer behavior. We identified the Rab-coupling protein RCP (also known as RAB11FIP1), which is located at a chromosomal region frequently amplified in breast cancer (8p11-12) as a potential candidate. Overexpression of RCP in MCF10A normal human mammary epithelial cells resulted in acquisition of tumorigenic properties such as loss of contact inhibition, growth-factor independence, and anchorage-independent growth. Conversely, knockdown of RCP in human breast cancer cell lines inhibited colony formation, invasion, and migration in vitro and markedly reduced tumor formation and metastasis in mouse xenograft models. Overexpression of RCP enhanced ERK phosphorylation and increased Ras activation in vitro. As these results indicate that RCP is a multifunctional gene frequently amplified in breast cancer that encodes a protein with Ras-activating function, we suggest it has potential importance as a therapeutic target. Furthermore, these studies provide new insight into the emerging role of the Rab family of small G proteins and their interacting partners in carcinogenesis.

Ras/MAPK signaling from endomembranes

Signal transduction along the Ras/MAPK pathway has been generally thought to take place at the plasma membrane. It is now evident that the plasma membrane is not the only platform capable of Ras/MAPK signal induction. Fusion of Ras with green fluorescent protein and the development of genetically encoded fluorescent probes for Ras activation have revealed signaling events on a variety of intracellular membranes including endosomes, the Golgi apparatus and the endoplasmic reticulum. Thus, the Ras/MAPK pathway is spatially compartmentalized within cells and this may afford greater complexity of signal output.

A clathrin-dependent pathway leads to KRas signaling on late endosomes en route to lysosomes

Ras proteins are small guanosine triphosphatases involved in the regulation of important cellular functions such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Understanding the intracellular trafficking of Ras proteins is crucial to identify novel Ras signaling platforms. In this study, we report that epidermal growth factor triggers Kirsten Ras (KRas) translocation onto endosomal membranes (independently of calmodulin and protein kinase C phosphorylation) through a clathrin-dependent pathway. From early endosomes, KRas but not Harvey Ras or neuroblastoma Ras is sorted and transported to late endosomes (LEs) and lysosomes. Using yellow fluorescent protein-Raf1 and the Raichu-KRas probe, we identified for the first time in vivo-active KRas on Rab7 LEs, eliciting a signal output through Raf1. On these LEs, we also identified the p14-MP1 scaffolding complex and activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2. Abrogation of lysosomal function leads to a sustained late endosomal mitogen-activated protein kinase signal output. Altogether, this study reveals novel aspects about KRas intracellular trafficking and signaling, shedding new light on the mechanisms controlling Ras regulation in the cell.

Ras subcellular localization defines extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 substrate specificity through distinct utilization of scaffold proteins

Subcellular localization influences the nature of Ras/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signals by unknown mechanisms. Herein, we demonstrate that the microenvironment from which Ras signals emanate determines which substrates will be preferentially phosphorylated by the activated ERK1/2. We show that the phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFr) and cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)) is most prominent when ERK1/2 are activated from lipid rafts, whereas RSK1 is mainly activated by Ras signals from the disordered membrane. We present evidence indicating that the underlying mechanism of this substrate selectivity is governed by the participation of different scaffold proteins that distinctively couple ERK1/2, activated at defined microlocalizations, to specific substrates. As such, we show that for cPLA(2) activation, ERK1/2 activated at lipid rafts interact with KSR1, whereas ERK1/2 activated at the endoplasmic reticulum utilize Sef-1. To phosphorylate the EGFr, ERK1/2 activated at lipid rafts require the participation of IQGAP1. Furthermore, we demonstrate that scaffold usage markedly influences the biological outcome of Ras site-specific signals. These results disclose an unprecedented spatial regulation of ERK1/2 substrate specificity, dictated by the microlocalization from which Ras signals originate and by the selection of specific scaffold proteins.

Signaling from endosomes: location makes a difference

In all transmembrane receptor systems the kinetics of receptor trafficking upon ligand stimulation is maintained in a balance between degradative and recycling pathways in order to keep homeostasis and to strictly control receptor-mediated signaling. Endocytosis is commonly considered as an efficient mechanism of uptake and transport of membrane-associated signaling molecules leading to attenuation of ligand-induced responses. Accumulating evidence, however, shows that signaling from internalized receptors not only continues in endosomal compartments, but that there are also distinct signaling events that require endocytosis. Endocytic organelles form a dynamic network of subcellular compartments, which actively control the timing, amplitude, and specificity of signaling. In this review we provide examples in which signal transduction either requires an active endocytic machinery, or directly originates from various types of endosomes. Based on recent discoveries, we emphasize the close interdependence between signaling and endocytosis, and the physiological relevance of endocytic transport in health and disease.

Activation of the MAPK module from different spatial locations generates distinct system outputs

The Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK (MAPK) pathway directs multiple cell fate decisions within a single cell. How different system outputs are generated is unknown. Here we explore whether activating the MAPK module from different membrane environments can rewire system output. We identify two classes of nanoscale environment within the plasma membrane. The first, which corresponds to nanoclusters occupied by GTP-loaded H-, N- or K-Ras, supports Raf activation and amplifies low Raf kinase input to generate a digital ERKpp output. The second class, which corresponds to nanoclusters occupied by GDP-loaded Ras, cannot activate Raf and therefore does not activate the MAPK module, illustrating how lateral segregation on plasma membrane influences signal output. The MAPK module is activated at the Golgi, but in striking contrast to the plasma membrane, ERKpp output is analog. Different modes of Raf activation precisely correlate with these different ERKpp system outputs. Intriguingly, the Golgi contains two distinct membrane environments that generate ERKpp, but only one is competent to drive PC12 cell differentiation. The MAPK module is not activated from the ER. Taken together these data clearly demonstrate that the different nanoscale environments available to Ras generate distinct circuit configurations for the MAPK module, bestowing cells with a simple mechanism to generate multiple system outputs from a single cascade.

Endocytosis and cancer: an 'insider' network with dangerous liaisons

From the signaling point of view, endocytosis has long been regarded as a major mechanism of attenuation, through the degradation of signaling receptors and, in some cases, of their ligands. This outlook has changed, over the past decade, as it has become clear that signaling persists in the endocytic route, and that intracellular endocytic stations (the 'signaling endosomes') actually contribute to the sorting of signals in space and time. Endocytosis-mediated recycling of receptors and of signaling molecules to specific regions of the plasma membrane is also coming into focus as a major mechanism in the execution of spatially restricted functions, such as cell motility. In addition, emerging evidence connects endocytosis as a whole, or individual endocytic proteins, to complex cellular programs, such as the control of the cell cycle, mitosis, apoptosis and cell fate determination. Thus, endocytosis seems to be deeply ingrained into the cell regulation blueprint and its subversion is predicted to play an important role in human diseases: first and foremost, cancer.

Compartmentalised MAPK pathways

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway provides cells with the means to interpret external signal cues or conditions, and respond accordingly. This cascade regulates many cell functions such as differentiation, proliferation and migration. Through modulation of both the amplitude and duration of MAPK signalling, cells can control their responses to the multiple activators of the pathway. In addition, recent work has highlighted the importance of the cellular compartment from which the signalling occurs. Cells have developed intricate systems that enable them to localise MAPK components to specific subcellular domains in response to a particular stimulus. Consequently, different factors can activate the same kinase in separate locations. Crucial to this ability are molecular scaffolds, which act as signalling modules for MAPKs, confining them to the desired compartment. The participation of the MAPK network in fundamental physiological processes, such as cell proliferation and inflammation, and the derangement of the homeostasis that occurs in disease processes, renders MAPK a highly desirable target for therapeutic intervention. As we enhance our comprehension of scaffolds and other regulatory molecules, novel targets for drug design may be discovered that will afford selective and specific MAPK modulation.

Endocytic trafficking of Rac is required for the spatial restriction of signaling in cell migration

The small GTPases, Rab5 and Rac, are essential for endocytosis and actin remodeling, respectively. Coordination of these processes is critical to achieve spatial restriction of intracellular signaling, which is essential for a variety of polarized functions. Here, we show that clathrin- and Rab5-mediated endocytosis are required for the activation of Rac induced by motogenic stimuli. Rac activation occurs on early endosomes, where the RacGEF Tiam1 is also recruited. Subsequent recycling of Rac to the plasma membrane ensures localized signaling, leading to the formation of actin-based migratory protrusions. Thus, membrane trafficking of Rac is required for the spatial resolution of Rac-dependent motogenic signals. We further demonstrate that a Rab5-to-Rac circuitry controls the morphology of motile mammalian tumor cells and primordial germinal cells during zebrafish development, suggesting that this circuitry is relevant for the regulation of migratory programs in various cells, in both in vitro settings and whole organisms.

Endosomal targeting of MEK2 requires RAF, MEK kinase activity and clathrin-dependent endocytosis

To study spatiotemporal regulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) signaling cascade in living cells, a HeLa cell line in which MAPK kinase of ERK kinase (MEK) 2 (MAPK kinase) was knocked down by RNA interference and replaced with the green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged MEK2 was generated. In these cells, MEK2-GFP was stably expressed at a level similar to that of the endogenous MEK2 in the parental cells. Upon activation of the EGF receptor (EGFR), a pool of MEK2-GFP was found initially translocated to the plasma membrane and then accumulated in a subset of early and late endosomes. However, activated MEK was detected only at the plasma membrane and not in endosomes. Surprisingly, MEK2-GFP endosomes did not contain active EGFR, suggesting that endosomal MEK2-GFP was separated from the upstream signaling complexes. Knockdown of clathrin by small interfering RNA (siRNA) abolished MEK2 recruitment to endosomes but resulted in increased activation of ERK without affecting the activity of MEK2-GFP. The accumulation of MEK2-GFP in endosomes was also blocked by siRNA depletion of RAF kinases and by the MEK1/2 inhibitor, UO126. We propose that the recruitment of MEK2 to endosomes can be a part of the negative feedback regulation of the EGFR-MAPK signaling pathway by endocytosis.

Clathrin-independent endocytosis: a unique platform for cell signaling and PM remodeling

There is increasing interest in endocytosis that occurs independently of clathrin coats and the fates of membrane proteins internalized by this mechanism. The appearance of clathrin-independent endocytic and membrane recycling pathways seems to vary with different cell types and cargo molecules. In this review we focus on studies that have been performed using HeLa and COS cells as model systems for understanding this membrane trafficking system. These endosomal membranes contain signaling molecules including H-Ras, Rac1, Arf6 and Rab proteins, and a lipid environment rich in cholesterol and PIP(2) providing a unique platform for cell signaling. Furthermore, activation of some of these signaling molecules (H-Ras, Rac and Arf6) can switch the constitutive form of clathrin-independent endocytosis into a stimulated one, associated with PM ruffling and macropinocytosis.

A unique platform for H-Ras signaling involving clathrin-independent endocytosis

Trafficking of H-Ras was examined to determine whether it can enter cells through clathrin-independent endocytosis (CIE). H-Ras colocalized with the CIE cargo protein, class I major histocompatibility complex, and it was sequestered in vacuoles that formed upon expression of an active mutant of Arf6, Q67L. Activation of Ras, either through epidermal growth factor stimulation or the expression of an active mutant of Ras, G12V, induced plasma membrane ruffling and macropinocytosis, a stimulated form of CIE. Live imaging of cells expressing H-RasG12V and fluorescent protein chimeras with pleckstrin homology domains that recognize specific phosphoinositides showed that incoming macropinosomes contained phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)) and phosphatiylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP(3)). PIP(2) loss from the macropinosome was followed by the recruitment of Rab5, a downstream target of Ras, and then PIP(3) loss. Our studies support a model whereby Ras can signal on macropinosomes that pass through three distinct stages: PIP(2)/PIP(3), PIP(3)/Rab5, and Rab5. Vacuoles that form in cells expressing Arf6Q67L trap Ras signaling in the first stage, recruiting the active form of the Ras effectors extracellular signal-regulated kinase and protein kinase B (Akt) but not Rab5. Arf6 stimulation of macropinocytosis also involves passage through the distinct lipid phases, but recruitment of Akt is not observed.

Calmodulin modulates H-Ras mediated Raf-1 activation

We have previously demonstrated that, in COS-1 cells, inhibition of calmodulin increases Ras-GTP levels although it decreases Raf-1 activity and consequently MAPK. The present study analyzes the role of calmodulin in the regulation of Raf-1. First we show, using FRET microscopy, that inhibition of Raf-1 was not a consequence of a decreased interaction between H-Ras and Raf-1. Besides, the analysis of the phosphorylation state of Raf-1 showed that calmodulin, through downstream PI3K, is essential to ensure the Ser338-Raf-1 phosphorylation, critical for Raf-1 activation. We also show that the expression of a dominant negative mutant of PI3K impairs the calmodulin-mediated Raf-1 activation; in addition, both calmodulin and PI3K inhibitors decrease phospho-Ser338 and Raf-1 activity from upstream active H-Ras (H-RasG12V) and this effect is dependent on endocytosis. Importantly, in H-Ras depleted COS-1 cells, calmodulin does not modulate MAPK activation. Altogether, the results suggest that calmodulin regulation of MAPK in COS-1 cells relies upon H-Ras control of Raf-1 activity and involves PI3K.

Ras isoform abundance and signalling in human cancer cell lines

The ubiquitously expressed major Ras isoforms: H-, K- and N-Ras, are highly conserved, yet exhibit different biological outputs. We have compared the relative efficiencies with which epidermal or hepatocyte growth factor activates Ras isoforms and the requirement for specific isoforms in the activation of downstream pathways. We find that the relative coupling efficiencies to each Ras isoform are conserved between stimuli. Furthermore, in both cases, inhibition of receptor endocytosis led to reduced N- and H-Ras activation, but K-Ras was unaffected. Acute knockdown of each isoform with siRNA allows endogenous Ras isoform function and abundance to be probed. This revealed that there is significant variation in the contribution of individual isoforms to total Ras across a panel of cancer cell lines although typically K> or =N>>H. Intriguingly, cancer cell lines where a significant fraction of endogenous Ras is oncogenically mutated showed attenuated activation of canonical Ras effector pathways. We profiled the contribution of each Ras isoform to the total Ras pool allowing interpretation of the effect of isoform-specific knockdown on signalling outcomes. In contrast to previous studies indicating preferential coupling of isoforms to Raf and PtdIns-3-kinase pathways, we find that endogenous Ras isoforms show no specific coupling to these major Ras pathways.

Ras proteins: paradigms for compartmentalised and isoform-specific signalling

Ras GTPases mediate a wide variety of cellular processes by converting a multitude of extracellular stimuli into specific biological responses including proliferation, differentiation and survival. In mammalian cells, three ras genes encode four Ras isoforms (H-Ras, K-Ras4A, K-Ras4B and N-Ras) that are highly homologous but functionally distinct. Differences between the isoforms, including their post-translational modifications and intracellular sorting, mean that Ras has emerged as an important model system of compartmentalised signalling and membrane biology. Ras isoforms in different subcellular locations are proposed to recruit distinct upstream and downstream accessory proteins and activate multiple signalling pathways. Here, we summarise data relating to isoform-specific signalling, its role in disease and the mechanisms promoting compartmentalised signalling. Further understanding of this field will reveal the role of Ras signalling in development, cellular homeostasis and cancer and may suggest new therapeutic approaches.

Plasma membrane nanoswitches generate high-fidelity Ras signal transduction

Ras proteins occupy dynamic plasma membrane nanodomains called nanoclusters. The significance of this spatial organization is unknown. Here we show, using in silico and in vivo analyses of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signalling, that Ras nanoclusters operate as sensitive switches, converting graded ligand inputs into fixed outputs of activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). By generating Ras nanoclusters in direct proportion to ligand input, cells build an analogue-digital-analogue circuit relay that transmits a signal across the plasma membrane with high fidelity. Signal transmission is completely dependent on Ras spatial organization and fails if nanoclustering is abrogated. A requirement for high-fidelity signalling may explain the non-random distribution of other plasma membrane signalling complexes.

Transcriptomal profiling of site-specific Ras signals

Ras proteins are distributed in distinct plasma-membrane microdomains and endomembranes. The biochemical signals generated by Ras therein differ qualitatively and quantitatively, but the extent to which this spatial variability impacts on the genetic program switched-on by Ras is unknown. We have used microarray technology to identify the transcriptional targets of localization-specific Ras subsignals in NIH3T3 cells expressing H-RasV12 selectively tethered to distinct cellular microenvironments. We report that the transcriptomes resulting from site-specific Ras activation show a significant overlap. However, distinct genetic signatures can also be found for each of the Ras subsignals. Our analyses unveil 121 genes uniquely regulated by Ras signals emanating from plasma-membrane microdomains. Interestingly, not a single gene is specifically controlled by lipid raft-anchored Ras. Furthermore, only 9 genes are exclusive for Ras signals from endomembranes. Also, we have identified 31 genes common to the site-specific Ras subsignals capable of inducing cellular transformation. Among these are the genes coding for Vitamin D receptor and for p120-GAP and we have assessed their impact in Ras-induced transformation. Overall, this report reveals the complexity and variability of the different genetic programs orchestrated by Ras from its main sublocalizations.

G protein regulation of MAPK networks

G proteins provide signal-coupling mechanisms to heptahelical cell surface receptors and are critically involved in the regulation of different mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) networks. The four classes of G proteins, defined by the G(s), G(i), G(q) and G(12) families, regulate ERK1/2, JNK, p38MAPK, ERK5 and ERK6 modules by different mechanisms. The alpha- as well as betagamma-subunits are involved in the regulation of these MAPK modules in a context-specific manner. While the alpha- and betagamma-subunits primarily regulate the MAPK pathways via their respective effector-mediated signaling pathways, recent studies have unraveled several novel signaling intermediates including receptor tyrosine kinases and small GTPases through which these G-protein subunits positively as well as negatively regulate specific MAPK modules. Multiple mechanisms together with specific scaffold proteins that can link G-protein-coupled receptors or G proteins to distinct MAPK modules contribute to the context-specific and spatio-temporal regulation of mitogen-activated protein signaling networks by G proteins.

Electrical properties of plasma membrane modulate subcellular distribution of K-Ras

K-Ras is a small G-protein, localized mainly at the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane. The membrane targeting signal of this protein consists of a polybasic C-terminal sequence of six contiguous lysines and a farnesylated cysteine. Results from biophysical studies in model systems suggest that hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions are responsible for the membrane binding properties of K-Ras. To test this hypothesis in a cellular system, we first evaluated in vitro the effect of electrolytes on K-Ras membrane binding properties. Results demonstrated the electrical and reversible nature of K-Ras binding to anionic lipids in membranes. We next investigated membrane binding and subcellular distribution of K-Ras after disruption of the electrical properties of the outer and inner leaflets of plasma membrane and ionic gradients through it. Removal of sialic acid from the outer plasma membrane caused a redistribution of K-Ras to recycling endosomes. Inhibition of polyphosphoinositide synthesis at the plasma membrane, by depletion of cellular ATP, resulted in a similar subcellular redistribution of K-Ras. Treatment of cells with ionophores that modify transmembrane potential caused a redistribution of K-Ras to cytoplasm and endomembranes. Ca2+ ionophores, compared to K+ ionophores, caused a much broader redistribution of K-Ras to endomembranes. Taken together, these results reveal the dynamic nature of interactions between K-Ras and cellular membranes, and indicate that subcellular distribution of K-Ras is driven by electrostatic interaction of the polybasic region of the protein with negatively charged membranes.

The histone acetyltransferases CBP/p300 are degraded in NIH 3T3 cells by activation of Ras signalling pathway

The CBP [CREB (cAMP-response-element-binding protein)-binding protein]/p300 acetyltransferases function as transcriptional co-activators and play critical roles in cell differentiation and proliferation. Accumulating evidence shows that alterations of the CBP/p300 protein levels are linked to human tumours. In the present study, we show that the levels of the CBP/p300 co-activators are decreased dramatically by continuous PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor) and Ras signalling pathway activation in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. This effect occurs by reducing the expression levels of the CBP/p300 genes. In addition, CBP and p300 are degraded by the 26 S proteasome pathway leading to an overall decrease in the levels of the CBP/p300 proteins. Furthermore, we provide evidence that Mdm2 (murine double minute 2), in the presence of active H-Ras or N-Ras, induces CBP/p300 degradation in NIH 3T3 cells. These findings support a novel mechanism for modulating other signalling transduction pathways that require these common co-activators.

hSef co-localizes and interacts with Ras in the inhibition of Ras/MAPK signaling pathway

To study the mechanism of the inhibitory effects of Sef (similar expression to fgf genes) on Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, we observed cellular localization of this protein. Immunofluorescent staining results show that Sef locates in the vesicles of the cytoplasm without bFGF treatment but co-localizes with Ras on the plasma membrane (PM) in response to bFGF stimulation. The coimmunoprecipitation assay demonstrates that Sef interacts with Ras or RasG12V, respectively. We observed that Sef inhibited FGF induced, but not RasG12V mediated, signal transduction. We propose that Sef interacted with Ras in the inhibition of Ras/MAPK signaling pathway.

Compartmentalized Ras/MAPK signaling

Signal transduction down the Ras/MAPK pathway, including that critical to T cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation, has been generally considered to occur at the plasma membrane. It is now clear that the plasma membrane does not represent the only platform for Ras/MAPK signaling. Moreover, the plasma membrane itself is no longer considered a uniform structure but rather a patchwork of microdomains that can compartmentalize signaling. Signaling on internal membranes was first recognized on endosomes. Genetically encoded fluorescent probes for signaling events such as GTP/GDP exchange on Ras have revealed signaling on a variety of intracellular membranes, including the Golgi apparatus. In fibroblasts, Ras is activated on the plasma membrane and Golgi with distinct kinetics. The pathway by which Golgi-associated Ras becomes activated involves PLCgamma and RasGRP1 and may also require retrograde trafficking of Ras from the plasma membrane to the Golgi as a consequence of depalmitoylation. Thus, the Ras/MAPK pathway represents a clear example of compartmentalized signaling.

Spatio-temporal segregation of Ras signals: one ship, three anchors, many harbors

Dynamic assembly of spatially separated signaling platforms enables a cell to tune cellular outputs in response to different input stimuli. Understanding how a vast diversity in signaling responses can be generated from a limited protein repertoire requires knowledge of how cells maintain the segregation of proteins and thereby orchestrate their local activities. Ras proteins are subject to this type of precise regulation of localization, and thus activity, in space and time. A model emerges where different lipid anchors dynamically shuttle Ras between specific membrane compartments, where differences in the accessibility of signaling environments and in the residence time of Ras therein account for isoform-specific signaling responses.

Differential effects of bryostatin 1 and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate on the regulation and activation of RasGRP1 in mouse epidermal keratinocytes

The antitumor agent bryostatin 1 and the tumor-promoting phorbol esters function as structural mimetics of the second lipid messenger diacylglycerol (DAG) by binding to the C1 domain of DAG receptors. However, bryostatin 1 and the phorbol esters often differ in their cellular actions. In mouse skin, the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) is a potent tumor promoter, whereas bryostatin 1 lacks this activity and antagonizes the tumor-promoting effects of TPA. Although protein kinase C mediates many of the effects of DAG on skin, the exact mechanisms responsible for the biology of bryostatin 1 and TPA in the epidermis have not been elucidated. We recently reported that the novel DAG receptor RasGRP1 is expressed in mouse keratinocytes and mediates TPA-induced Ras activation. This finding prompted us to examine the regulation of RasGRP1 by bryostatin 1. We found that whereas TPA induced translocation of RasGRP1 to both the plasma and internal membranes of the keratinocytes, bryostatin 1 recruited RasGRP1 only to internal membranes and the nuclear envelope. In addition, TPA led to a concentration-dependent down-regulation of RasGRP1, whereas bryostatin 1 failed to induce full RasGRP1 down-regulation. Interestingly, bryostatin 1 was less effective than TPA at activating Ras. The results presented here suggest the possibility that a differential modulation of RasGRP1 by bryostatin 1 compared with TPA could participate in the disparate responses of the epidermal cells to both DAG analogues. This result may have implications in the understanding of the antitumor effects of bryostatin 1 in the skin.

Role of Rab5 in insulin receptor-mediated endocytosis and signaling

Activated insulin receptors recruit various intracellular proteins leading to signal generation and endocytic trafficking. Although activated receptors are rapidly internalized into the endocytic compartment and subsequently degraded in lysosomes, the linkage between insulin receptor signaling and endocytosis is not well understood. This study utilizes both overexpression and depletion of Rab5 proteins to show that they play a critical role in both insulin-stimulated fluid phase and receptor-mediated endocytosis. Specifically, Rab5:WT and Rab5:Q79L (a GTP-hydrolysis defective mutant) enhance both types of endocytosis in response to insulin, while Rab5:S34N (a GTP-binding defective mutant) has the opposite effect. Morphological analysis indicates that both Rab5 and insulin receptor are found on early endosomes, but not at the plasma membrane. In addition, expression of Rab5:WT and Rab5:Q79L enhance both Erk1/2 and Akt activation without affecting JN- and p38-kinase activities, while the expression of Rab5:S34N blocks both Erk1/2 and Akt activation. Consistent with these observations, DNA synthesis is also altered by the expression of Rab5:S34N. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Rab5 is required for insulin receptor membrane trafficking and signaling.

Differential modification of Ras proteins by ubiquitination

Ras proteins are essential components of signal transduction pathways that control cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. It is well recognized that the functional versatility of Ras proteins is accomplished through their differential compartmentalization, but the mechanisms that control their spatial segregation are not fully understood. Here we show that HRas is subject to ubiquitin conjugation, whereas KRas is refractory to this modification. The membrane-anchoring domain of HRas is necessary and sufficient to direct the mono- and diubiquitination of HRas. Ubiquitin attachment to HRas stabilizes its association with endosomes and modulates its ability to activate the Raf/MAPK signaling pathway. Therefore, differential ubiquitination of Ras proteins may control their location-specific signaling activities.

Distinct utilization of effectors and biological outcomes resulting from site-specific Ras activation: Ras functions in lipid rafts and Golgi complex are dispensable for proliferation and transformation

Ras proteins are distributed in different types of plasma membrane microdomains and endomembranes. However, how microlocalization affects the signals generated by Ras and its subsequent biological outputs is largely unknown. We have approached this question by selectively targeting RasV12 to different cellular sublocalizations. We show here that compartmentalization dictates Ras utilization of effectors and the intensity of its signals. Activated Ras can evoke enhanced proliferation and transformation from most of its platforms, with the exception of the Golgi complex. Furthermore, signals that promote survival emanate primarily from the endoplasmic reticulum pool. In addition, we have investigated the need for the different pools of endogenous Ras in the conveyance of upstream mitogenic and transforming signals. Using targeted RasN17 inhibitory mutants and in physiological contexts such as H-Ras/N-Ras double knockout fibroblasts, we demonstrate that Ras functions at lipid rafts and at the Golgi complex are fully dispensable for proliferation and transformation.

Role of lipids in the MAPK signaling pathway

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway is activated in response to a variety of extracellular stimuli such as growth factor stimulation. The best-characterized MAPK pathway involves the sequential activation of Raf, MEK and ERK proteins, capable of regulating the gene expression required for cell proliferation. Binding to specific lipids can regulate both the subcellular localization of these MAPK signaling proteins as well as their kinase activities. More recently it has become increasingly clear that the majority of MAPK signaling takes place intracellularly on endosomes and that the perturbation of endocytic pathways has dramatic effects on the MAPK pathway. This review highlights the direct effects of lipids on the localization and regulation of MAPK pathway proteins. In addition, the indirect effects lipids have on MAPK signaling via their regulation of endocytosis and the biophysical properties of different membrane lipids as a result of growth factor stimulation are discussed. The ability of a protein to bind to both lipids and proteins at the same time may act like a "ZIP code" to target that protein to a highly specific microlocation and could also allow a protein to be "handed off" to maintain tight control over its binding partners and location.

The challenges of abundance: epithelial junctions and small GTPase signalling

Small GTPases of the Ras superfamily play critical roles in epithelial biogenesis. Many key morphogenetic functions occur when small GTPases act at epithelial junctions, where they mediate an increasingly complex interplay between cell-cell adhesion molecules and fundamental cellular processes, such as cytoskeletal activity, polarity and trafficking. Important recent advances in this field include the role of additional members of the Ras superfamily in cell-cell contact stability and the capacity for polarity determinants to regulate small GTPase signalling. Interestingly, small GTPases may participate in the cross-talk between different adhesive receptors: in tissues classical cadherins can selectively regulate other junctions through cell signalling rather than through a global influence on cell-cell cohesion.

Ras plasma membrane signalling platforms

The plasma membrane is a complex, dynamic structure that provides platforms for the assembly of many signal transduction pathways. These platforms have the capacity to impose an additional level of regulation on cell signalling networks. In this review, we will consider specifically how Ras proteins interact with the plasma membrane. The focus will be on recent studies that provide novel spatial and dynamic insights into the micro-environments that different Ras proteins utilize for signal transduction. We will correlate these recent studies suggesting Ras proteins might operate within a heterogeneous plasma membrane with earlier biochemical work on Ras signal transduction.

Visualizing Ras signalling in real-time

Ras GTPases are universal molecular switches that act as kinetic timers of signal transduction events. They are post-translationally modified by the addition of lipid groups to their hypervariable carboxyl termini, which plug the proteins to membranes and influence their dynamic sorting and trafficking. For the past twenty years, the plasma membrane has been considered to be the predominant platform from which Ras operates. Recent work using live-cell imaging and novel probes to visualize where and when Ras is active has supported this long-held belief. However, an equally fascinating aspect of these imaging studies has been the discovery of dynamic Ras activity, as well as distinct signal output, from intracellular organelles. Activation of Ras on the Golgi exhibits kinetics different from Ras activation on the plasma membrane, and compartmentalized Ras signalling seems particularly prominent in lymphocytes. However, data on the spatial and temporal regulation of Ras activity has frequently differed depending on the nature of the probe, the cell type and the stimulus. Nevertheless, because Ras traffics through endomembranes en route to the plasma membrane, it seems likely that Ras can signal from such compartments. The burning question in this field concerns the significance of this observation for endogenous Ras signalling output.

Depalmitoylated Ras traffics to and from the Golgi complex via a nonvesicular pathway

Palmitoylation is postulated to regulate Ras signaling by modulating its intracellular trafficking and membrane microenvironment. The mechanisms by which palmitoylation contributes to these events are poorly understood. Here, we show that dynamic turnover of palmitate regulates the intracellular trafficking of HRas and NRas to and from the Golgi complex by shifting the protein between vesicular and nonvesicular modes of transport. A combination of time-lapse microscopy and photobleaching techniques reveal that in the absence of palmitoylation, GFP-tagged HRas and NRas undergo rapid exchange between the cytosol and ER/Golgi membranes, and that wild-type GFP-HRas and GFP-NRas are recycled to the Golgi complex by a nonvesicular mechanism. Our findings support a model where palmitoylation kinetically traps Ras on membranes, enabling the protein to undergo vesicular transport. We propose that a cycle of depalmitoylation and repalmitoylation regulates the time course and sites of Ras signaling by allowing the protein to be released from the cell surface and rapidly redistributed to intracellular membranes.

K-ras4B and prenylated proteins lacking "second signals" associate dynamically with cellular membranes

We have used fluorescence microscopy and the technique of rapamycin-regulated protein heterodimerization to examine the dynamics of the subcellular localizations of fluorescent proteins fused to lipid-modified protein sequences and to wild-type and mutated forms of full-length K-ras4B. Singly prenylated or myristoylated fluorescent protein derivatives lacking a "second signal" to direct them to specific subcellular destinations, but incorporating a rapamycin-dependent heterodimerization module, rapidly translocate to mitochondria upon rapamycin addition to bind to a mitochondrial outer membrane protein incorporating a complementary heterodimerization module. Under the same conditions analogous constructs anchored to the plasma membrane by multiply lipid-modified sequences, or by a transmembrane helix, show very slow or no transfer to mitochondria, respectively. Interestingly, however, fluorescent protein constructs incorporating either full-length K-ras4B or its plasma membrane-targeting sequence alone undergo rapamycin-induced transfer from the plasma membrane to mitochondria on a time scale of minutes, demonstrating the rapidly reversible nature of K-ras4B binding to the plasma membrane. The dynamic nature of the plasma membrane targeting of K-ras4B could contribute to K-ras4B function by facilitating redistribution of the protein between subcellular compartments under particular conditions.

Modeling the signaling endosome hypothesis: why a drive to the nucleus is better than a (random) walk

Background

Information transfer from the plasma membrane to the nucleus is a universal cell biological property. Such information is generally encoded in the form of post-translationally modified protein messengers. Textbook signaling models typically depend upon the diffusion of molecular signals from the site of initiation at the plasma membrane to the site of effector function within the nucleus. However, such models fail to consider several critical constraints placed upon diffusion by the cellular milieu, including the likelihood of signal termination by dephosphorylation. In contrast, signaling associated with retrogradely transported membrane-bounded organelles such as endosomes provides a dephosphorylation-resistant mechanism for the vectorial transmission of molecular signals. We explore the relative efficiencies of signal diffusion versus retrograde transport of signaling endosomes.

Results

Using large-scale Monte Carlo simulations of diffusing STAT-3 molecules coupled with probabilistic modeling of dephosphorylation kinetics we found that predicted theoretical measures of STAT-3 diffusion likely overestimate the effective range of this signal. Compared to the inherently nucleus-directed movement of retrogradely transported signaling endosomes, diffusion of STAT-3 becomes less efficient at information transfer in spatial domains greater than 200 nanometers from the plasma membrane.

Conclusion

Our model suggests that cells might utilize two distinct information transmission paradigms: 1) fast local signaling via diffusion over spatial domains on the order of less than 200 nanometers; 2) long-distance signaling via information packets associated with the cytoskeletal transport apparatus. Our model supports previous observations suggesting that the signaling endosome hypothesis is a subset of a more general hypothesis that the most efficient mechanism for intracellular signaling-at-a-distance involves the association of signaling molecules with molecular motors that move along the cytoskeleton. Importantly, however, cytoskeletal association of membrane-bounded complexes containing ligand-occupied transmembrane receptors and downstream effector molecules provides the ability to regenerate signals at any point along the transmission path. We conclude that signaling endosomes provide unique information transmission properties relevant to all cell architectures, and we propose that the majority of relevant information transmitted from the plasma membrane to the nucleus will be found in association with organelles of endocytic origin.

Oncogenic Ras in tumour progression and metastasis

The ras genes give rise to a family of related GTP-binding proteins that exhibit potent transforming potential. Mutational activation of Ras proteins promotes oncogenesis by disturbing a multitude of cellular processes, such as gene expression, cell cycle progression and cell proliferation, as well as cell survival, and cell migration. Ras signalling pathways are well known for their involvement in tumour initiation, but less is known about their contribution to invasion and metastasis. This review summarises the role and mechanisms of Ras signalling, especially the role of the Ras effector cascade Raf/MEK/ERK, as well as the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway in Ras-mediated transformation and tumour progression. In addition, it discusses the impact of Rho GTPases on Ras-mediated transformation and metastasis.

Individual palmitoyl residues serve distinct roles in H-ras trafficking, microlocalization, and signaling

H-ras is anchored to the plasma membrane by two palmitoylated cysteine residues, Cys181 and Cys184, operating in concert with a C-terminal S-farnesyl cysteine carboxymethylester. Here we demonstrate that the two palmitates serve distinct biological roles. Monopalmitoylation of Cys181 is required and sufficient for efficient trafficking of H-ras to the plasma membrane, whereas monopalmitoylation of Cys184 does not permit efficient trafficking beyond the Golgi apparatus. However, once at the plasma membrane, monopalmitoylation of Cys184 supports correct GTP-regulated lateral segregation of H-ras between cholesterol-dependent and cholesterol-independent microdomains. In contrast, monopalmitoylation of Cys181 dramatically reverses H-ras lateral segregation, driving GTP-loaded H-ras into cholesterol-dependent microdomains. Intriguingly, the Cys181 monopalmitoylated H-ras anchor emulates the GTP-regulated microdomain interactions of N-ras. These results identify N-ras as the Ras isoform that normally signals from lipid rafts but also reveal that spacing between palmitate and prenyl groups influences anchor interactions with the lipid bilayer. This concept is further supported by the different plasma membrane affinities of the monopalmitoylated anchors: Cys181-palmitate is equivalent to the dually palmitoylated wild-type anchor, whereas Cys184-palmitate is weaker. Thus, membrane affinity of a palmitoylated anchor is a function both of the hydrophobicity of the lipid moieties and their spatial organization. Finally we show that the plasma membrane affinity of monopalmitoylated anchors is absolutely dependent on cholesterol, identifying a new role for cholesterol in promoting interactions with the raft and nonraft plasma membrane.

Ouabain-induced endocytosis of the plasmalemmal Na/K-ATPase in LLC-PK1 cells requires caveolin-1

BACKGROUND

We have demonstrated that ouabain causes dose- and time-dependent decreases in (86)Rb uptake in pig renal proximal tubule cell line (LLC-PK1) cells; and ouabain induces endocytosis of plasmalemmal Na/K-ATPase in LLC-PK1 cells in a clathrin-dependent pathway. Our data also suggest a role of endocytosis in both ouabain-induced signal transduction and proximal tubule sodium handling. The present study addresses the molecular mechanisms involved in this process.

METHODS

Studies were performed with cultured LLC-PK1 and a stable-expressed caveolin-1 knockdown LLC-PK1 cell line by SiRNA method.

RESULTS

In wild-type LLC-PK1 cells, depletion of cholesterol by methyl beta-cyclodextrin reduced ouabain-induced accumulation of Na/K-ATPase alpha-1 subunit, EGFR, Src, and MAPKs in clathrin-coated vesicles, as well as in endosomes. Depletion of cholesterol also significantly reduced the protein-protein interaction among alpha-1 subunit, AP2, PI-3K, and clathrin heavy chain. In LLC-PK1 cells expressing mock-vehicle and caveolin-1 siRNA, depletion of caveolin-1 abolished ouabain-induced decrease in Rb uptake and decrease in the plasmalemmal Na/K-ATPase content. Depletion of caveolin-1 also significantly reduced the ouabain-induced accumulation of Na/K-ATPase alpha-1 subunit, EGFR, Src, and MAPKs in clathrin-coat vesicles, as well as early and late endosomes. In addition, depletion of caveolin-1 also significantly reduced the protein-protein interaction among alpha-1 subunit, AP2, PI-3K, and clathrin heavy chain. These data suggest that caveolae are involved in ouabain-induced endocytosis and signal transduction by initiating assembly of signaling cascades through the caveolar Na/K-ATPase and/or the interaction with clathrin-mediated endocytosis of the Na/K-ATPase.

H-Ras dynamically interacts with recycling endosomes in CHO-K1 cells: involvement of Rab5 and Rab11 in the trafficking of H-Ras to this pericentriolar endocytic compartment

H-, N-, and K-Ras are isoforms of Ras proteins, which undergo different lipid modifications at the C terminus. These post-translational events make possible the association of Ras proteins both with the inner plasma membrane and to the cytosolic surface of endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complex, which is also required for the proper function of these proteins. To better characterize the intracellular distribution and sorting of Ras proteins, constructs were engineered to express the C-terminal domain of H- and K-Ras fused to variants of green fluorescent protein. Using confocal microscopy, we found in CHO-K1 cells that H-Ras, which is palmitoylated and farnesylated, localized at the recycling endosome in addition to the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane. In contrast, K-Ras, which is farnesylated and nonpalmitoylated, mainly localized at the plasma membrane. Moreover, we demonstrate that sorting signals of H- and K-Ras are contained within the C-terminal domain of these proteins and that palmitoylation on this region of H-Ras might operate as a dominant sorting signal for proper subcellular localization of this protein in CHO-K1 cells. Using selective photobleaching techniques, we demonstrate the dynamic nature of H-Ras trafficking to the recycling endosome from plasma membrane. We also provide evidence that Rab5 and Rab11 activities are required for proper delivery of H-Ras to the endocytic recycling compartment. Using a chimera containing the Ras binding domain of c-Raf-1 fused to a fluorescent protein, we found that a pool of GTP-bound H-Ras localized on membranes from Rab11-positive recycling endosome after serum stimulation. These results suggest that H-Ras present in membranes of the recycling endosome might be activating signal cascades essential for the dynamic and function of the organelle.

Ras signaling from plasma membrane and endomembrane microdomains

Ras proteins are compartmentalized by dynamic interactions with both plasma membrane microdomains and intracellular membranes. The mechanisms underlying Ras compartmentalization involve a series of protein/lipid, lipid/lipid and cytoskeleton interactions, resulting in the generation of discrete microdomains from which Ras operates. Segregation of Ras proteins to these different platforms regulates the formation of Ras signaling complexes and the generation of discrete signal outputs. This temporal and spatial modulation of Ras signal transduction provides a mechanism for the generation of different biological outcomes from different Ras isoforms, as well as flexibility in the signal output from a single activated isoform.

Ras diffusion is sensitive to plasma membrane viscosity

The cell surface contains a variety of barriers and obstacles that slow the lateral diffusion of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored and transmembrane proteins below the theoretical limit imposed by membrane viscosity. How the diffusion of proteins residing exclusively on the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane is regulated has been largely unexplored. We show here that the diffusion of the small GTPase Ras is sensitive to the viscosity of the plasma membrane. Using confocal fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, we examined the diffusion of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged HRas, NRas, and KRas in COS-7 cells loaded with or depleted of cholesterol, a well-known modulator of membrane bilayer viscosity. In cells loaded with excess cholesterol, the diffusional mobilities of GFP-HRas, GFP-NRas, and GFP-KRas were significantly reduced, paralleling the behavior of the viscosity-sensitive lipid probes DiIC(16) and DiIC(18). However, the effects of cholesterol depletion on protein and lipid diffusion in cell membranes were highly dependent on the depletion method used. Cholesterol depletion with methyl-beta-cyclodextrin slowed Ras diffusion by a viscosity-independent mechanism, whereas overnight cholesterol depletion slightly increased both protein and lipid diffusion. The ability of Ras to sense membrane viscosity may represent a general feature of proteins residing on the cytoplasmic face of the plasma membrane.

Expression of Ras GTPase isoforms in normal and diseased pancreas

BACKGROUND

Ki-Ras is well studied in its oncogenic form in relation to pancreatic pathologies. However, the individual contribution of each of the wild-type Ras isoforms (Ha-, Ki-, and N-) in pancreatic cells in health and disease is unknown.

METHODS

Archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens of normal (n = 6) and malignant pancreas (n = 35) were used for immuno-histochemical detection of Ras isoforms using a modified polymer system. In addition, immunogold labelling for Ras isoforms was done for subcellular localisation under electron microscopy.

RESULTS

Pancreatic ductal cells expressed Ha-Ras in the cytoplasm, with Ki-Ras in the apical region and N-Ras (50% of cases) in a supranuclear distribution. Pancreatic acinar cells express all three isoforms with some nuclear expression of Ki-Ras and supranuclear expression of N-Ras. Islets show Ki- and Ha-Ras mainly with differential expression of Ha-Ras (beta cells showing less Ha-Ras and more Ki-Ras than alpha cells). Electron microscopy shows that Ha-Ras is mainly localised in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus of the acinar cells with some plasma membrane localisation of Ki-Ras in the ductal cells. There was no change in any of the Ras isoform expression in the ductal or acinar cells in various malignancies studied (Mann-Whitney U test, p > 0.1).

CONCLUSIONS

Ras isoforms have distinct and separate cellular and subcellular distribution that may persist even in the malignantly transformed state. Understanding this distinct functional distribution patterns in detail is an essential step if mutant Ki-Ras is to be targeted in the pancreas by genetic or molecular therapeutic tools.

Clathrin- and non-clathrin-mediated endocytic regulation of cell signalling

The internalization of various cargo proteins and lipids from the mammalian cell surface occurs through the clathrin and lipid-raft endocytic pathways. Protein-lipid and protein-protein interactions control the targeting of signalling molecules and their partners to various specialized membrane compartments in these pathways. This functions to control the activity of signalling cascades and the termination of signalling events, and therefore has a key role in defining how a cell responds to its environment.

Characterization of Endocytic Vesicles Using Magnetic Microbeads Coated with Signalling Ligands

Iron microbeads coated with the protein ligands insulin and EGF (Fe-INS and Fe-EGF) were prepared. Examination of the traffic of these ligand-coated microbeads demonstrated their internalization via clathrin-coated vesicles. Using magnetic methods, we have purified vesicles derived from the endocytic pathway. Vesicles prepared by this method are essentially free of contamination with other endomembrane compartments. Examination of the vesicles derived from cells treated with Fe-INS beads demonstrated the presence of the components of the Ras/Erk cascade on their surface. We conclude that the coupling of the Erk-signalling cascade induced by insulin takes place on the surface of endocytic vesicles derived from the internalization of the insulin receptor.

An acylation cycle regulates localization and activity of palmitoylated Ras isoforms

We show that the specific subcellular distribution of H- and Nras guanosine triphosphate-binding proteins is generated by a constitutive de/reacylation cycle that operates on palmitoylated proteins, driving their rapid exchange between the plasma membrane (PM) and the Golgi apparatus. Depalmitoylation redistributes farnesylated Ras in all membranes, followed by repalmitoylation and trapping of Ras at the Golgi, from where it is redirected to the PM via the secretory pathway. This continuous cycle prevents Ras from nonspecific residence on endomembranes, thereby maintaining the specific intracellular compartmentalization. The de/reacylation cycle also initiates Ras activation at the Golgi by transport of PM-localized Ras guanosine triphosphate. Different de/repalmitoylation kinetics account for isoform-specific activation responses to growth factors.

Not just a sink: endosomes in control of signal transduction

Recent studies indicate that endocytic organelles can play a more active role in signal propagation and amplification than was recognised before. By deciphering the interplay between endocytosis and signalling, we will be able to gain a more sophisticated level of understanding of signal transduction mechanisms.

Requirement of phospholipase D1 activity in H-RasV12-induced transformation

The ability of the Ras oncogene to transform normal cells has been well established. One downstream effector of Ras is the lipid hydrolyzing enzyme phospholipase D. Recent evidence has emerged indicating a role for phospholipase D in cell proliferation, membrane trafficking, and migration. To study the potential importance of phospholipase D in the oncogenic ability of Ras, we used Rat-2 fibroblasts with reduced phospholipase D1 activity (Rat-2V25). Here, we show that H-Ras transformation of Rat-2 fibroblasts requires normal phospholipase D1 activity. WT Rat-2 fibroblasts transfected with the H-RasV12 oncogene grew colonies in soft agar and tumors in nude mice. However, Rat-2V25 cells when transfected with the H-RasV12 oncogene did not form colonies in soft agar or produce tumors when xenografted onto nude mice. Interestingly, in the presence of phosphatidic acid, the product of phospholipase D, growth in soft agar and tumor formation was restored. We also observed a dramatic increase in the expression of phospholipase D1 in colorectal tumors when compared with adjacent normal mucosa. Our studies identify phospholipase D1 as a critical downstream mediator of H-Ras-induced tumor formation.

Ouabain induces endocytosis of plasmalemmal Na/K-ATPase in LLC-PK1 cells by a clathrin-dependent mechanism

BACKGROUND

We have demonstrated that ouabain causes dose- and time-dependent decreases in (86)Rb uptake in porcine proximal tubular (LLC-PK1) cells. The present study addresses the molecular mechanisms involved in this process.

METHODS

Studies were performed with cultured LLC-PK1 and Src family kinase deficient (SYF) cells.

RESULTS

We found that 50 nmol/L ouabain applied to the basal, but not apical, aspect for 12 hours caused decreases in the plasmalemmal Na/K-ATPase. This loss of plasmalemmal Na/K-ATPase reverses completely within 12 to 24 hours after removal of ouabain. Ouabain also increased the Na/K-ATPase content in both early and late endosomes, activated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI(3)K), and also caused a translocation of some Na/K-ATPase to the nucleus. Immunofluorescence demonstrated that the Na/K-ATPase colocalized with clathrin both before and after exposure to ouabain, and immunoprecipitation experiments confirmed that ouabain stimulated interactions among the Na/K-ATPase, adaptor protein-2 (AP-2), and clathrin. Potassium (K) depletion, chlorpromazine, or PI(3)K inhibition all significantly attenuated this ouabain-induced endocytosis. Inhibition of the ouabain-activated signaling process through Src by 4-Amino-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-(t-butyl)pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (PP2) significantly attenuated ouabain-induced endocytosis. Moreover, experiments performed in SYF cells demonstrated that ouabain induced increases in the endocytosis of the Na/K-ATPase when Src was reconstituted (SYF+), but not in the Src-deficient (SYF-) cells.

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that ouabain stimulates a clathrin-dependent endocytosis pathway that translocates the Na/K-ATPase to intracellular compartments, thus suggesting a potential role of endocytosis in ouabain-induced signal transduction as well as proximal tubule sodium handling.

PKC controls HGF-dependent c-Met traffic, signalling and cell migration

The growth factor/receptor pair HGF/c-Met exerts control on proliferation, morphogenesis and motility, and through overexpression and mutation is implicated in cancer. Here we have investigated the relationship between receptor signalling and traffic, and its control by specific PKC isotypes. It is shown that c-Met signalling to the ERK cascade occurs within endosomal compartments and that it is in this compartment that PKCepsilon specifically exerts its control on the pathway with the consequent accumulation of ERK in focal complexes. These events are clearly separated from the subsequent microtubule-dependent sorting of c-Met to its perinuclear destination, which is shown to be under the control of PKCalpha. Thus while it is shown that traffic to endosomes is essential for HGF/c-Met to trigger an ERK response, the subsequent traffic and signalling of c-Met controlled by these two PKC isotypes are unconnected events. The dynamic properties conferred by the PKCepsilon control are shown to be essential for a normal HGF-dependent migratory response. Thus PKCs are shown to control both receptor traffic and signal traffic to relay HGF/c-Met responses.