A Novel Role for Gab1 and SHP2 in Epidermal Growth Factor-induced Ras Activation

Noonan syndrome-causing SHP2 mutants inhibit insulin-like growth factor 1 release via growth hormone-induced ERK hyperactivation, which contributes to short stature

Noonan syndrome (NS), a genetic disease caused in half of cases by activating mutations of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 (PTPN11), is characterized by congenital cardiopathies, facial dysmorphic features, and short stature. How mutated SHP2 induces growth retardation remains poorly understood. We report here that early postnatal growth delay is associated with low levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in a mouse model of NS expressing the D61G mutant of SHP2. Conversely, inhibition of SHP2 expression in growth hormone (GH)-responsive cell lines results in increased IGF-1 release upon GH stimulation. SHP2-deficient cells display decreased ERK1/2 phosphorylation and rat sarcoma (RAS) activation in response to GH, whereas expression of NS-associated SHP2 mutants results in ERK1/2 hyperactivation in vitro and in vivo. RAS/ERK1/2 inhibition in SHP2-deficient cells correlates with impaired dephosphorylation of the adaptor Grb2-associated binder-1 (GAB1) on its RAS GTPase-activating protein (RASGAP) binding sites and is rescued by interfering with RASGAP recruitment or function. We demonstrate that inhibition of ERK1/2 activation results in an increase of IGF-1 levels in vitro and in vivo, which is associated with significant growth improvement in NS mice. In conclusion, NS-causing SHP2 mutants inhibit GH-induced IGF-1 release through RAS/ERK1/2 hyperactivation, a mechanism that could contribute to growth retardation. This finding suggests that, in addition to its previously shown beneficial effect on NS-linked cardiac and craniofacial defects, RAS/ERK1/2 modulation could also alleviate the short stature phenotype in NS caused by PTPN11 mutations.

SHP-1 expression accounts for resistance to imatinib treatment in Philadelphia chromosome-positive cells derived from patients with chronic myeloid leukemia

We prove that the SH2-containing tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP-1) plays a prominent role as resistance determinant of imatinib (IMA) treatment response in chronic myelogenous leukemia cell lines (sensitive/KCL22-S and resistant/KCL22-R). Indeed, SHP-1 expression is significantly lower in resistant than in sensitive cell line, in which coimmunoprecipitation analysis shows the interaction between SHP-1 and a second tyrosine phosphatase SHP-2, a positive regulator of RAS/MAPK pathway. In KCL22-R SHP-1 ectopic expression restores both SHP-1/SHP-2 interaction and IMA responsiveness; it also decreases SHP-2 activity after IMA treatment. Consistently, SHP-2 knocking-down in KCL22-R reduces either STAT3 activation or cell viability after IMA exposure. Therefore, our data suggest that SHP-1 plays an important role in BCR-ABL-independent IMA resistance modulating the activation signals that SHP-2 receives from both BCR/ABL and membrane receptor tyrosine kinases. The role of SHP-1 as a determinant of IMA sensitivity has been further confirmed in 60 consecutive untreated patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia, whose SHP-1 mRNA levels were significantly lower in case of IMA treatment failure (P < .0001). In conclusion, we suggest that SHP-1 could be a new biologic indicator at baseline of IMA sensitivity in patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia.

Raf family kinases: old dogs have learned new tricks

First identified in the early 1980s as retroviral oncogenes, the Raf proteins have been the objects of intense research. The discoveries 10 years later that the Raf family members (Raf-1, B-Raf, and A-Raf) are bona fide Ras effectors and upstream activators of the ubiquitous ERK pathway increased the interest in these proteins primarily because of the central role that this cascade plays in cancer development. The important role of Raf in cancer was corroborated in 2002 with the discovery of B-Raf genetic mutations in a large number of tumors. This led to intensified drug development efforts to target Raf signaling in cancer. This work yielded not only recent clinical successes but also surprising insights into the regulation of Raf proteins by homodimerization and heterodimerization. Surprising insights also came from the hunt for new Raf targets. Although MEK remains the only widely accepted Raf substrate, new kinase-independent roles for Raf proteins have emerged. These include the regulation of apoptosis by suppressing the activity of the proapoptotic kinases, ASK1 and MST2, and the regulation of cell motility and differentiation by controlling the activity of Rok-α. In this review, we discuss the regulation of Raf proteins and their role in cancer, with special focus on the interacting proteins that modulate Raf signaling. We also describe the new pathways controlled by Raf proteins and summarize the successes and failures in the development of efficient anticancer therapies targeting Raf. Finally, we also argue for the necessity of more systemic approaches to obtain a better understanding of how the Ras-Raf signaling network generates biological specificity.

The tyrosine phosphatase Shp-2 interacts with the dopamine D(1) receptor and triggers D(1) -mediated Erk signaling in striatal neurons

We report a novel mechanism for dopamine D(1) receptor (D(1) R)-mediated extracellular signal-regulated kinases (Erk) activation in rat striatum. Erk signaling depends on phosphorylation and dephosphorylation events mediated by specific kinases and phosphatases. The tyrosine phosphatase Shp-2, that is required for Erk activation by tyrosine kinase receptors, has been recently shown to regulate signaling downstream of few G protein-coupled receptors. We show that the D(1) R interacts with Shp-2, that D(1) R stimulation results in Shp-2 tyrosine phosphorylation and activation in primary striatal neuronal cultures and that D(1) R/Shp-2 interaction is required for transmitting D(1) R-dependent signaling to Erk1/2 activation. D(1) R-mediated Erk1/2 phosphorylation in cultured striatal neurons is in fact abolished by over-expression of the inactive Shp-2(C/S) mutant and by small interfering RNA-induced Shp-2 silencing. Moreover, by using selective inhibitors we show that both D(1) R-induced Shp-2 activation and Erk1/2 phosphorylation are dependent on the cyclic AMP/protein kinase A pathway and require Src. These results, which were substantiated also in transfected human embryonic kidney 293 cells, provide a novel mechanism by which to converge D(1) R signaling to the Erk pathway and suggest that Shp-2 or the D(1) R/Shp-2 interface could represent a potential drug target for disorders of dopamine transmission involving malfunctioning of D(1) R signaling.

Critical role of Shp2 in tumor growth involving regulation of c-Myc

Activating mutants of Shp2 protein tyrosine phosphatase, encoded by the PTPN11 gene, are linked to leukemia. In solid tumors, however, PTPN11 mutations occur at low frequencies while the wildtype Shp2 is activated by protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) in cancer cells and mediates PTK signaling. Therefore, it is important to address whether the wildtype Shp2 plays a functional role critical for tumor growth. Using shRNAs and a PTP-inactive mutant to inhibit Shp2, we find here that tumor growth of DU145 prostate cancer and H292 lung cancer cells depends on Shp2. Suppression of Shp2 inhibited cell proliferation, decreased c-Myc and increased p27 expression in cell cultures. In H292 tumor tissues, c-Myc-positive cells coincided with Ki67-positive cells and smaller tumors from Shp2 knockdown cells had less c-Myc-positive cells and more nuclear p27. Shp2-regulated c-Myc expression was mediated by Src and Erk1/2. Down-regulation of c-Myc reduced cell proliferation while up-regulation of c-Myc in Shp2 knockdown H292 cells partially rescued the inhibitory effect of Shp2 suppression on cell proliferation. Tyrosine phosphoproteomic analysis of H292 tumor tissues showed that Shp2 could both up- and down-regulate tyrosine phosphorylation on cellular proteins. Among other changes, Shp2 inhibition increased phosphorylation of Src Tyr-530 and Cdk1 Thr-14/Tyr-15 and decreased phosphorylation of Erk1 and Erk2 activating sites in the tumors. Significantly, we found that Shp2 positively regulated Gab1 Tyr-627/Tyr-659 phosphorylation. This finding reveals that Shp2 can auto-regulate its own activating signal. Shp2 Tyr-62/Tyr-63 phosphorylation was observed in tumor tissues, indicating that Shp2 is activated in the tumors.

MET signalling: principles and functions in development, organ regeneration and cancer

The MET tyrosine kinase receptor (also known as the HGF receptor) promotes tissue remodelling, which underlies developmental morphogenesis, wound repair, organ homeostasis and cancer metastasis, by integrating growth, survival and migration cues in response to environmental stimuli or cell-autonomous perturbations. The versatility of MET-mediated biological responses is sustained by qualitative and quantitative signal modulation. Qualitative mechanisms include the engagement of dedicated signal transducers and the subcellular compartmentalization of MET signalling pathways, whereas quantitative regulation involves MET partnering with adaptor amplifiers or being degraded through the shedding of its extracellular domain or through intracellular ubiquitylation. Controlled activation of MET signalling can be exploited in regenerative medicine, whereas MET inhibition might slow down tumour progression.

Identification of new substrates of the protein-tyrosine phosphatase PTP1B by Bayesian integration of proteome evidence

There is growing evidence that tyrosine phosphatases display an intrinsic enzymatic preference for the sequence context flanking the target phosphotyrosines. On the other hand, substrate selection in vivo is decisively guided by the enzyme-substrate connectivity in the protein interaction network. We describe here a system wide strategy to infer physiological substrates of protein-tyrosine phosphatases. Here we integrate, by a Bayesian model, proteome wide evidence about in vitro substrate preference, as determined by a novel high-density peptide chip technology, and “closeness” in the protein interaction network. This allows to rank candidate substrates of the human PTP1B phosphatase. Ultimately a variety of in vitro and in vivo approaches were used to verify the prediction that the tyrosine phosphorylation levels of five high-ranking substrates, PLC-γ1, Gab1, SHP2, EGFR, and SHP1, are indeed specifically modulated by PTP1B. In addition, we demonstrate that the PTP1B-mediated dephosphorylation of Gab1 negatively affects its EGF-induced association with the phosphatase SHP2. The dissociation of this signaling complex is accompanied by a decrease of ERK MAP kinase phosphorylation and activation.

The role of Src homology 2 containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 2 in vascular smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) perform essential smooth muscle contractile and synthetic functions including migration, differentiation and proliferation under physiological and pathological conditions. In response to pathological stimuli, VMSCs undergo phenotypic change resulting in abnormal migration and proliferation, which may contribute to a "pathogenesis-like" atherosclerosis. Intracellular signaling mechanisms governing this phenotypic switch are of great significance not only for better understanding of atherosclerotic plaque formation but also for strategy for pertinent therapeutic remedies. Src Homology 2 Containing Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 2 (SHP2) is a ubiquitous tyrosine phosphatase containing Src Homology 2 domains which plays major biological functions in response to various growth factors, hormones or cytokines. In particular, SHP2 is implicated in cell signaling pathways controlling cell cycle progression, growth and migration. In this review we will mainly discuss the recent literature demonstrating the role of SHP2 in VSMC migration and proliferation.

SHP2 mediates the localized activation of Fyn downstream of the α6β4 integrin to promote carcinoma invasion

Src family kinase (SFK) activity is elevated in many cancers, and this activity correlates with aggressive tumor behavior. The α6β4 integrin, which is also associated with a poor prognosis in many tumor types, can stimulate SFK activation; however, the mechanism by which it does so is not known. In the current study, we provide novel mechanistic insight into how the α6β4 integrin selectively activates the Src family member Fyn in response to receptor engagement. Both catalytic and noncatalytic functions of SHP2 are required for Fyn activation by α6β4. Specifically, the tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 is recruited to α6β4 and its catalytic activity is stimulated through a specific interaction of its N-terminal SH2 domain with pY1494 in the β4 subunit. Fyn is recruited to the α6β4/SHP2 complex through an interaction with phospho-Y580 in the C terminus of SHP2. In addition to activating Fyn, this interaction with Y580-SHP2 localizes Fyn to sites of receptor engagement, which is required for α6β4-dependent invasion. Of significance for tumor progression, phosphorylation of Y580-SHP2 and SFK activation are increased in orthotopic human breast tumors that express α6β4 and activation of this pathway is dependent upon Y1494.

The tyrosine phosphatase Shp2 in development and cancer

Deregulation of signaling pathways, through mutation or other molecular changes, can ultimately result in disease. The tyrosine phosphatase Shp2 has emerged as a major regulator of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) and cytokine receptor signaling. In the last decade, germline mutations in the human PTPN11 gene, encoding Shp2, were linked to Noonan (NS) and LEOPARD syndromes, two multisymptomatic developmental disorders that are characterized by short stature, craniofacial defects, cardiac defects, and mental retardation. Somatic Shp2 mutations are also associated with several types of human malignancies, such as the most common juvenile leukemia, juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). Whereas NS and JMML are caused by gain-of-function (GOF) mutations of Shp2, loss-of-function (LOF) mutations are thought to be associated with LEOPARD syndrome. Animal models that carry conditional LOF and GOF mutations have allowed a better understanding of the mechanism of Shp2 function in disease, and shed light on the role of Shp2 in signaling pathways that control decisive events during embryonic development or during cellular transformation/tumorigenesis.

The Gab2 in signal transduction and its potential role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease

The growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (Grb2)-associated binder (Gab) proteins are intracellular scaffolding/docking molecules, and participate in multiple signaling pathways, usually acting as the downstream effector of protein-tyrosine kinases (PTKs)-triggered signal transduction pathway. When phosphorylated by PTKs, Gab proteins can recruit several signaling molecules (p85, SHP2, and Crk), and subsequently activate multiple transmitting signals that are critical for cell growth, survival, differentiation and apoptosis. Recently, it has been reported that Gab2 polymorphism is associated with the increase in the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is involved in the pathogenesis of AD. This review mainly focuses on the structure and function of Gab2 protein and its role in the pathogenesis of AD.

Functional effects of PTPN11 (SHP2) mutations causing LEOPARD syndrome on epidermal growth factor-induced phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/glycogen synthase kinase 3beta signaling

LEOPARD syndrome (LS), a disorder with multiple developmental abnormalities, is mainly due to mutations that impair the activity of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 (PTPN11). How these alterations cause the disease remains unknown. We report here that fibroblasts isolated from LS patients displayed stronger epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced phosphorylation of both AKT and glycogen synthase kinase 3beta (GSK-3beta) than fibroblasts from control patients. Similar results were obtained in HEK293 cells expressing LS mutants of SHP2. We found that the GAB1/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) complex was more abundant in fibroblasts from LS than control subjects and that both AKT and GSK-3beta hyperphosphorylation were prevented by reducing GAB1 expression or by overexpressing a GAB1 mutant unable to bind to PI3K. Consistently, purified recombinant LS mutants failed to dephosphorylate GAB1 PI3K-binding sites. These mutants induced PI3K-dependent increase in cell size in a model of chicken embryo cardiac explants and in transcriptional activity of the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) gene in neonate rat cardiomyocytes. In conclusion, SHP2 mutations causing LS facilitate EGF-induced PI3K/AKT/GSK-3beta stimulation through impaired GAB1 dephosphorylation, resulting in deregulation of a novel signaling pathway that could be involved in LS pathology.

Tyrosine phosphatases Shp1 and Shp2 have unique and opposing roles in oligodendrocyte development

Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells first proliferate to generate sufficient cell numbers and then differentiate into myelin-producing oligodendrocytes. The signal transduction mediators that underlie these events, however, remain poorly understood. The tyrosine phosphatase Shp1 has been linked to oligodendrocyte differentiation as Shp1-deficient mice show hypomyelination. The Shp1 homolog, Shp2, has recently been shown to regulate astrogliogenesis, but its role in oligodendrocyte development remains unknown. Here, we report that Shp2 protein levels were developmentally regulated in oligodendrocytes, with Shp2 phosphorylation being promoted by oligodendroglial mitogens but suppressed by laminin, an extracellular matrix protein that promotes oligodendroglial differentiation. In contrast, oligodendrocyte progenitors were found to be unresponsive to mitogens following Shp2, but not Shp1, depletion. In agreement with previous studies, Shp1 depletion led to decreased levels of myelin basic protein in differentiating oligodendrocytes, as well as reduced outgrowth of myelin membrane sheets. Shp2 depletion in contrast did not prevent oligodendrocyte differentiation but promoted expanded myelin membrane outgrowth. Taken together these data suggest that Shp1 and Shp2 have distinct functions in oligodendrocyte development: Shp2 regulates oligodendrocyte progenitor proliferation and Shp1 regulates oligodendrocyte differentiation. Adhesion to laminin may additionally provide extrinsic regulation of Shp2 activity and thus promote the transition from progenitor to differentiating oligodendrocyte.

Protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP-2: a proto-oncogene product that promotes Ras activation

SHP-2 is a cytoplasmic protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) that contains two Src homology 2 (SH2) domains. Although PTPs are generally considered to be negative regulators on the basis of their ability to oppose the effects of protein tyrosine kinases, SHP-2 is unusual in that it promotes the activation of the Ras-MAPK signaling pathway by receptors for various growth factors and cytokines. The molecular basis for the activation of SHP-2 is also unique: In the basal state, the NH(2)-terminal SH2 domain of SHP-2 interacts with the PTP domain, resulting in autoinhibition of PTP activity; the binding of SHP-2 via its SH2 domains to tyrosine-phosphorylated growth factor receptors or docking proteins, however, results in disruption of this intramolecular interaction, leading to exposure of the PTP domain and catalytic activation. Indeed, SHP-2 proteins with artificial mutations in the NH(2)-terminal SH2 domain have been shown to act as dominant active mutants in vitro. Such activating mutations of PTPN11 (human SHP-2 gene) were subsequently identified in individuals with Noonan syndrome, a human developmental disorder that is sometimes associated with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia. Furthermore, somatic mutations of PTPN11 were found to be associated with pediatric leukemia. SHP-2 is also thought to participate in the development of other malignant disorders, but in a manner independent of such activating mutations. Biochemical and functional studies of SHP-2 and genetic analysis of PTPN11 in human disorders have thus converged to provide new insight into the pathogenesis of cancer as well as potential new targets for cancer treatment.

The tyrosine phosphatase Shp2 (PTPN11) directs Neuregulin-1/ErbB signaling throughout Schwann cell development

The nonreceptor tyrosine phosphatase Shp2 (PTPN11) has been implicated in tyrosine kinase, cytokine, and integrin receptor signaling. We show here that conditional mutation of Shp2 in neural crest cells and in myelinating Schwann cells resulted in deficits in glial development that are remarkably similar to those observed in mice mutant for Neuregulin-1 (Nrg1) or the Nrg1 receptors, ErbB2 and ErbB3. In cultured Shp2 mutant Schwann cells, Nrg1-evoked cellular responses like proliferation and migration were virtually abolished, and Nrg1-dependent intracellular signaling was altered. Pharmacological inhibition of Src family kinases mimicked all cellular and biochemical effects of the Shp2 mutation, implicating Src as a primary Shp2 target during Nrg1 signaling. Together, our genetic and biochemical analyses demonstrate that Shp2 is an essential component in the transduction of Nrg1/ErbB signals.

Function, regulation and pathological roles of the Gab/DOS docking proteins

Since their discovery a little more than a decade ago, the docking proteins of the Gab/DOS family have emerged as important signalling elements in metazoans. Gab/DOS proteins integrate and amplify signals from a wide variety of sources including growth factor, cytokine and antigen receptors as well as cell adhesion molecules. They also contribute to signal diversification by channelling the information from activated receptors into signalling pathways with distinct biological functions. Recent approaches in protein biochemistry and systems biology have revealed that Gab proteins are subject to complex regulation by feed-forward and feedback phosphorylation events as well as protein-protein interactions. Thus, Gab/DOS docking proteins are at the centre of entire signalling subsystems and fulfil an important if not essential role in many physiological processes. Furthermore, aberrant signalling by Gab proteins has been increasingly linked to human diseases from various forms of neoplasia to Alzheimer's disease.

In this review, we provide a detailed overview of the structure, effector functions, regulation and evolution of the Gab/DOS family. We also summarize recent findings implicating Gab proteins, in particular the Gab2 isoform, in leukaemia, solid tumours and other human diseases.

A role for Gab1/SHP2 in thrombin activation of PAK1: gene transfer of kinase-dead PAK1 inhibits injury-induced restenosis

To understand the role of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) transactivation in G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) agonist-induced signaling events, we have studied the capacity of thrombin in the activation of Gab1-SHP2 in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Thrombin activated both Gab1 and SHP2 in EGFR-dependent manner. Similarly, thrombin induced Rac1 and Cdc42 activation, and these responses were suppressed when either Gab1 or SHP2 stimulation is blocked. Thrombin also induced PAK1 activation in a time- and EGFR-Gab1-SHP2-Rac1/Cdc42-dependent manner. Inhibition of activation of EGFR, Gab1, SHP2, Rac1, Cdc42, or PAK1 by pharmacological or genetic approaches attenuated thrombin-induced VSMC stress fiber formation and motility. Thrombin activated RhoA in a time-dependent manner in VSMCs. LARG, a RhoA-specific GEF (guanine nucleotide exchange factor), was found to be associated with Gab1 and siRNA-mediated depletion of its levels suppressed RhoA, Rac1 and PAK1 activation. Dominant negative mutant-mediated interference of RhoA activation inhibited thrombin-induced Rac1 and PAK1 stimulation in VSMCs and their stress fiber formation and migration. Balloon injury induced PAK1 activity and interference with its activation led to attenuation of SMC migration from media to intima, resulting in reduced neointima formation and increased lumen size. Inhibition of thrombin signaling by recombinant hirudin also blocked balloon injury-induced EGFR tyrosine phosphorylation and PAK1 activity. These results show that thrombin-mediated PAK1 activation plays a crucial role in vascular wall remodeling and it could be a potential target for drug development against these vascular lesions.

Systems-level interactions between insulin-EGF networks amplify mitogenic signaling

Crosstalk mechanisms have not been studied as thoroughly as individual signaling pathways. We exploit experimental and computational approaches to reveal how a concordant interplay between the insulin and epidermal growth factor (EGF) signaling networks can potentiate mitogenic signaling. In HEK293 cells, insulin is a poor activator of the Ras/ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) cascade, yet it enhances ERK activation by low EGF doses. We find that major crosstalk mechanisms that amplify ERK signaling are localized upstream of Ras and at the Ras/Raf level. Computational modeling unveils how critical network nodes, the adaptor proteins GAB1 and insulin receptor substrate (IRS), Src kinase, and phosphatase SHP2, convert insulin-induced increase in the phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-triphosphate (PIP₃) concentration into enhanced Ras/ERK activity. The model predicts and experiments confirm that insulin-induced amplification of mitogenic signaling is abolished by disrupting PIP₃-mediated positive feedback via GAB1 and IRS. We demonstrate that GAB1 behaves as a non-linear amplifier of mitogenic responses and insulin endows EGF signaling with robustness to GAB1 suppression. Our results show the feasibility of using computational models to identify key target combinations and predict complex cellular responses to a mixture of external cues.

A novel interaction between fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 and the p85 subunit of phosphoinositide 3-kinase: activation-dependent regulation of ERK by p85 in multiple myeloma cells

Ectopic activation of fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) is associated with several cancers, including multiple myeloma (MM). FGFR3 inhibition in these cells inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis, validating FGFR3 signaling as a therapeutic target in t(4;14) MM cases. We have identified the PI3K regulatory subunit, p85alpha, as a novel interactor of FGFR3 by yeast two-hybrid, and confirmed an interaction with both p85alpha and p85beta in mammalian cells. The interaction of FGFR3 with p85 is dependent upon receptor activation. In contrast to the Gab1-mediated association of FGFRs with p85, the FGFR3-p85 interaction we observed requires FGFR3 Y760, previously identified as a PLCgamma binding site. The interaction of p85 with FGFR3 does not require PLCgamma, suggesting the p85 interaction is direct and independent of PLCgamma binding. FGFR3 and p85 proteins also interact in MM cell lines which consistently express p85alpha and p85beta, but not p50 or p55 subunits. siRNA knockdown of p85beta in MM cells caused an increased ERK response to FGF2. These data suggest that an endogenous negative regulatory role for the p85-FGFR3 interaction on the Ras/ERK/MAPK pathway may exist in response to FGFR3 activity and identifies a novel therapeutic target for MM.

A new mechanism for the regulation of Gab1 recruitment to the plasma membrane

Adaptor proteins involved in signal transduction fulfil their cellular functions by bringing signalling molecules together and by targeting these signalling components to defined compartments within the cell. Furthermore, adaptor proteins represent a molecular platform from which different signalling pathways are initiated. Gab1 is an adaptor protein that recruits the p85 subunit of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, the adaptor Grb2, the adaptor and phosphatase SHP2 and the GTPase-activating protein Ras-GAP. Gab1 thus contributes to the activation of the PI3K cascade and the MAPK cascade through many growth factors and cytokines. The recruitment of Gab1 to phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate within the plasma membrane by its pleckstrin-homology domain is regarded as a major regulatory step for the activation of Gab1. Here, we present a new more complex mechanism for Gab1 translocation that involves and depends on the activation of ERK. We demonstrate that the presence of PI3K activity in the cell is not sufficient for binding Gab1 to the plasma membrane. Instead, additional MAPK-dependent phosphorylation of Ser551 in Gab1 is crucial for the recruitment of Gab1 to the plasma membrane. This mechanism represents a new mode of regulation for the function of PH domains.

G-CSF stimulates Jak2-dependent Gab2 phosphorylation leading to Erk1/2 activation and cell proliferation

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), the major cytokine regulator of neutrophilic granulopoiesis, stimulates both the proliferation and differentiation of myeloid precursors. A variety of signaling proteins have been identified as mediators of G-CSF signaling, but understanding of their specific interactions and organization into signaling pathways for particular cellular effects is incomplete. The present study examined the role of the scaffolding protein Grb2-associated binding protein-2 (Gab2) in G-CSF signaling. We found that a chemical inhibitor of Janus kinases inhibited G-CSF-stimulated Gab2 phosphorylation. Transfection with Jak2 antisense and dominant negative constructs also inhibited Gab2 phosphorylation in response to G-CSF. In addition, G-CSF enhanced the association of Jak2 with Gab2. In vitro, activated Jak2 directly phosphorylated specific Gab2 tyrosine residues. Mutagenesis studies revealed that Gab2 tyrosine 643 (Y643) was a major target of Jak2 in vitro, and a key residue for Jak2-dependent phosphorylation in intact cells. Mutation of Gab2 Y643 inhibited G-CSF-stimulated Erk1/2 activation and Shp2 binding to Gab2. Loss of Y643 also inhibited Gab2-mediated G-CSF-stimulated cell proliferation. Together, these results identify a novel signaling pathway involving Jak2-dependent Gab2 phosphorylation leading to Erk1/2 activation and cell proliferation in response to G-CSF.

SHP2 is up-regulated in breast cancer cells and in infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the breast, implying its involvement in breast oncogenesis

AIMS

To determine whether Src homology phosphotyrosyl phosphatase 2 (SHP2) is up-regulated in breast cancer and, if so, to determine whether its up-regulation has any relationship with clinical variables of breast cancer.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence microscopy were used to assess the state of SHP2 expression in breast cancer cells and in infiltrating ductal carcinoma (IDC) of breast. The possible role of SHP2 in breast cancer cell transformation was determined by dominant-negative expression and anchorage-independent growth assays. All of the breast cancer cell lines tested and 72% of IDC breast tumours analysed had increased amounts of the SHP2 protein. In support of its positive role, dominant-negative SHP2 blocked anchorage-independent growth of breast cancer cells. Furthermore, overexpression of SHP2 seemed to have a positive relationship to HER2 overexpression, nuclear accumulation of hormone receptors, higher tumour grade and lymph node metastasis, but not to age of breast cancer patients.

CONCLUSION

SHP2 is a widely overexpressed signalling protein in IDC breast tumours. Given SHP2's positive role in cell growth, transformation and stem cell survival, the positive relationship of its overexpression to lymph node metastasis, nuclear accumulation of hormone receptors and higher tumour grade suggests that SHP2 promotes breast oncogenesis.

Interaction of scaffolding adaptor protein Gab1 with tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 negatively regulates IGF-I-dependent myogenic differentiation via the ERK1/2 signaling pathway

Grb2-associated binder 1 (Gab1) coordinates various receptor tyrosine kinase signaling pathways. Although skeletal muscle differentiation is regulated by some growth factors, it remains elusive whether Gab1 coordinates myogenic signals. Here, we examined the molecular mechanism of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I)-mediated myogenic differentiation, focusing on Gab1 and its downstream signaling. Gab1 underwent tyrosine phosphorylation and subsequent complex formation with protein-tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 upon IGF-I stimulation in C2C12 myoblasts. On the other hand, Gab1 constitutively associated with phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase regulatory subunit p85. To delineate the role of Gab1 in IGF-I-dependent signaling, we examined the effect of adenovirus-mediated forced expression of wild-type Gab1 (Gab1(WT)), mutated Gab1 that is unable to bind SHP2 (Gab1(DeltaSHP2)), or mutated Gab1 that is unable to bind p85 (Gab1(Deltap85)), on the differentiation of C2C12 myoblasts. IGF-I-induced myogenic differentiation was enhanced in myoblasts overexpressing Gab1(DeltaSHP2), but inhibited in those overexpressing either Gab1(WT) or Gab1(Deltap85). Conversely, IGF-I-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation was significantly repressed in myoblasts overexpressing Gab1(DeltaSHP2) but enhanced in those overexpressing either Gab1(WT) or Gab1(Deltap85). Furthermore, small interference RNA-mediated Gab1 knockdown enhanced myogenic differentiation. Overexpression of catalytic-inactive SHP2 modulated IGF-I-induced myogenic differentiation and ERK1/2 activation similarly to that of Gab1(DeltaSHP2), suggesting that Gab1-SHP2 complex inhibits IGF-I-dependent myogenesis through ERK1/2. Consistently, the blockade of ERK1/2 pathway reversed the inhibitory effect of Gab1(WT) overexpression on myogenic differentiation, and constitutive activation of the ERK1/2 pathway suppressed the enhanced myogenic differentiation by overexpression of Gab1(DeltaSHP2). Collectively, these data suggest that the Gab1-SHP2-ERK1/2 signaling pathway comprises an inhibitory axis for IGF-I-dependent myogenic differentiation.

Specific inhibitors of the protein tyrosine phosphatase Shp2 identified by high-throughput docking

The protein tyrosine phosphatase Shp2 is a positive regulator of growth factor signaling. Gain-of-function mutations in several types of leukemia define Shp2 as a bona fide oncogene. We performed a high-throughput in silico screen for small-molecular-weight compounds that bind the catalytic site of Shp2. We have identified the phenylhydrazonopyrazolone sulfonate PHPS1 as a potent and cell-permeable inhibitor, which is specific for Shp2 over the closely related tyrosine phosphatases Shp1 and PTP1B. PHPS1 inhibits Shp2-dependent cellular events such as hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF)-induced epithelial cell scattering and branching morphogenesis. PHPS1 also blocks Shp2-dependent downstream signaling, namely HGF/SF-induced sustained phosphorylation of the Erk1/2 MAP kinases and dephosphorylation of paxillin. Furthermore, PHPS1 efficiently inhibits activation of Erk1/2 by the leukemia-associated Shp2 mutant, Shp2-E76K, and blocks the anchorage-independent growth of a variety of human tumor cell lines. The PHPS compound class is therefore suitable for further development of therapeutics for the treatment of Shp2-dependent diseases.

Host-pathogen systems biology: logical modelling of hepatocyte growth factor and Helicobacter pylori induced c-Met signal transduction

Background

The hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) stimulates mitogenesis, motogenesis, and morphogenesis in a wide range of tissues, including epithelial cells, on binding to the receptor tyrosine kinase c-Met. Abnormal c-Met signalling contributes to tumour genesis, in particular to the development of invasive and metastatic phenotypes. The human microbial pathogen Helicobacter pylori can induce chronic gastritis, peptic ulceration and more rarely, gastric adenocarcinoma. The H. pylori effector protein cytotoxin associated gene A (CagA), which is translocated via a type IV secretion system (T4SS) into epithelial cells, intracellularly modulates the c-Met receptor and promotes cellular processes leading to cell scattering, which could contribute to the invasiveness of tumour cells. Using a logical modelling framework, the presented work aims at analysing the c-Met signal transduction network and how it is interfered by H. pylori infection, which might be of importance for tumour development.

Results

A logical model of HGF and H. pylori induced c-Met signal transduction is presented in this work. The formalism of logical interaction hypergraphs (LIH) was used to construct the network model. The molecular interactions included in the model were all assembled manually based on a careful meta-analysis of published experimental results. Our model reveals the differences and commonalities of the response of the network upon HGF and H. pylori induced c-Met signalling. As another important result, using the formalism of minimal intervention sets, phospholipase Cγ1 (PLCγ1) was identified as knockout target for repressing the activation of the extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), a signalling molecule directly linked to cell scattering in H. pylori infected cells. The model predicted only an effect on ERK1/2 for the H. pylori stimulus, but not for HGF treatment. This result could be confirmed experimentally in MDCK cells using a specific pharmacological inhibitor against PLCγ1. The in silico predictions for the knockout of two other network components were also verified experimentally.

Conclusion

This work represents one of the first approaches in the direction of host-pathogen systems biology aiming at deciphering signalling changes brought about by pathogenic bacteria. The suitability of our network model is demonstrated by an in silico prediction of a relevant target against pathogen infection.

Gab1 but not Grb2 mediates tumor progression in Met overexpressing colorectal cancer cells

Hepatocyte growth factor receptor (Met) plays an important role in the progression of multiple cancer types. The overexpression of Met in DLD-1 colon carcinoma cells with kirsten rat sarcoma oncogene homolog (KRAS) oncogene activation resulted in enhanced subcutaneous and orthotopic tumor growth rate and increased metastatic potential. To elucidate the mechanism of this effect, we stably expressed kinase-inactive Met(K1110A), Src homology 2 (SH2)-binding domain-inactive Met(Y1349/1356F), growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (Grb2) non-binding Met(N1358H) and mutant receptors with ability to selectively recruit signaling proteins Grb2, src homology domain c-terminal adaptor homolog (Shc), phospholipase c-gamma (PLCgamma) and p85 phosphatidyl inositol 3 kinase. As subcutaneous implants, DLD-1 cells that expressed the majority of these receptor constructs failed to recapitulate the tumor growth-enhancing effect of the wild-type Met receptor. The Grb2- and Shc-recruiting Met mutants demonstrated slight but consistent tumor-suppressive activity, whereas the expression of N1358H mutant stimulated tumor growth rate comparable with the wild-type receptor. This suggests that direct Grb2/Shc binding does not contribute to the tumor progression activity of Met receptor. The tumors expressing Grb2- and Shc-recruiting Met receptors demonstrated a marked loss in Grb2-associated adaptor protein 1 (Gab1) protein levels, which was not observed in the cell lines, consistent with a post-translationally regulated process. Moreover, a moderate level of Gab1 overexpression stimulated tumor growth. The findings suggest a delicate balance for intact Y1349/1356 SH2-binding domain to mediate the tumor progression activity of the coactivated Met-rat sarcoma oncogene homolog (RAS) pathways. Selectivity for specific adaptor protein involvement may be the key that determines the tissue- and cell-type specificity of Met-mediated tumorigenicity in human cancers.

RasGAPs: a crucial regulator of extracellular stimuli for homeostasis of cellular functions

Ras and its GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) are among the crucial regulators of extracelluar ligands. Information about these regulators has been elucidated during the course of studies in signal transduction over the last two decades. RasGAPs such as p120GAP and neurofibromin have been studied extensively for their roles as either "negative" regulators or effectors of Ras. Accumulating evidence suggests that these molecules are crucial regulators of extracellular stimuli that serve to maintain the homeostasis of cellular functions. This compendium highlights cellular functions of RasGAPs and their signaling characteristics from the viewpoint of homeostasis, including our recent finding of the phenotype of R-RasGAP mutant mice whose GAP activity is down-regulated.

Signal strength dictates phosphoinositide 3-kinase contribution to Ras/extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 activation via differential Gab1/Shp2 recruitment: consequences for resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition

Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) participates in extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1-2) activation according to signal strength, through unknown mechanisms. We report herein that Gab1/Shp2 constitutes a PI3K-dependent checkpoint of ERK1-2 activation regulated according to signal intensity. Indeed, by up- and down-regulation of signal strength in different cell lines and through different methods, we observed that Gab1/Shp2 and Ras/ERK1-2 in concert become independent of PI3K upon strong epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) stimulation and dependent on PI3K upon limited EGFR activation. Using Gab1 mutants, we observed that this conditional role of PI3K is dictated by the EGFR capability of recruiting Gab1 through Grb2 or through the PI3K lipid product PIP(3), according to a high or weak level of receptor stimulation, respectively. In agreement, Grb2 siRNA generates, in cells with maximal EGFR stimulation, a strong dependence on PI3K for both Gab1/Shp2 and ERK1-2 activation. Therefore, Ras/ERK1-2 depends on PI3K only when PIP(3) is required to recruit Gab1/Shp2, which occurs only under weak EGFR mobilization. Finally, we show that, in glioblastoma cells displaying residual EGFR activation, this compensatory mechanism becomes necessary to efficiently activate ERK1-2, which could probably contribute to tumor resistance to EGFR inhibitors.

Coupling of Grb2 to Gab1 mediates hepatocyte growth factor-induced high intensity ERK signal required for inhibition of HepG2 hepatoma cell proliferation

Activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway is a key factor in the regulation of cell proliferation by growth factors. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-induced cell cycle arrest in the human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2 requires strong activation of the ERK pathway. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism of the activation. We constructed a chimeric receptor composed of the extracellular domain of the NGF receptor and the cytoplasmic domain of the HGF receptor (c-Met) and introduced a point mutation (N1358H) into the chimeric receptor, which specifically abrogates the direct binding of Grb2 to c-Met. The mutant chimeric receptor failed to mediate the strong activation of ERK, up-regulation of the expression of a Cdk inhibitor p16(INK4a) and inhibition of HepG2 cell proliferation by ligand stimulation. Moreover, the mutant receptor did not induce tyrosine phosphorylation of the docking protein Gab1. Knockdown of Gab1 using siRNA suppressed the HGF-induced strong activation of ERK and inhibition of HepG2 cell proliferation. These results suggest that coupling of Grb2 to Gab1 mediates the HGF-induced strong activation of the ERK pathway, which is required for the inhibition of HepG2 cell proliferation.

Ligand-dependent responses of the ErbB signaling network: experimental and modeling analyses

Deregulation of ErbB signaling plays a key role in the progression of multiple human cancers. To help understand ErbB signaling quantitatively, in this work we combine traditional experiments with computational modeling, building a model that describes how stimulation of all four ErbB receptors with epidermal growth factor (EGF) and heregulin (HRG) leads to activation of two critical downstream proteins, extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and Akt. Model analysis and experimental validation show that (i) ErbB2 overexpression, which occurs in approximately 25% of all breast cancers, transforms transient EGF-induced signaling into sustained signaling, (ii) HRG-induced ERK activity is much more robust to the ERK cascade inhibitor U0126 than EGF-induced ERK activity, and (iii) phosphoinositol-3 kinase is a major regulator of post-peak but not pre-peak EGF-induced ERK activity. Sensitivity analysis leads to the hypothesis that ERK activation is robust to parameter perturbation at high ligand doses, while Akt activation is not.

The molecular functions of Shp2 in the Ras/Mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK1/2) pathway

Shp2 is a ubiquitous tyrosine phosphatase containing Src Homology 2 domains which plays major biological functions in response to various growth factors, hormones or cytokines. This is essentially due to its particularity of promoting the activation of the Ras/Mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. Recent progresses have been made in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in this regulation. We review here, and discuss the physiological relevance, of the following molecular functions of Shp2 that have been proposed to couple the phosphatase to Ras activation: promoter of Grb2/Sos recruitment through direct binding to Grb2, binding partner and regulator of SHPS-1, negative regulator of Sprouty, negative regulator of RasGAP recruitment, and activator of Src through dephosphorylation of Src-regulatory proteins.

Distinct requirements for Gab1 in Met and EGF receptor signaling in vivo

Gab1 is a multiadaptor protein that has been shown to be required for multiple processes in embryonic development and oncogenic transformation. Gab1 functions by amplifying signal transduction downstream of various receptor tyrosine kinases through recruitment of multiple signaling effectors, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and Shp2. Until now, the functional significance of individual interactions in vivo was not known. Here we have generated knockin mice that carry point mutations in either the P13K or Shp2 binding sites of Gab1. We show that different effector interactions with Gab1 play distinct biological roles downstream of Gab1 during the development of different organs. Recruitment of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase by Gab1 is essential for EGF receptor-mediated embryonic eyelid closure and keratinocyte migration, and the Gab1-Shp2 interaction is crucial for Met receptor-directed placental development and muscle progenitor cell migration to the limbs. Furthermore, we investigate the dual association of Gab1 with the Met receptor. By analyzing knockin mice with mutations in the Grb2 or Met binding site of Gab1, we show that the requirements for Gab1 recruitment to Met varies in different biological contexts. Either the direct or the indirect interaction of Gab1 with Met is sufficient for Met-dependent muscle precursor cell migration, whereas both modes of interaction are required and neither is sufficient for placenta development, liver growth, and palatal shelf closure. These data demonstrate that Gab1 induces different biological responses through the recruitment of distinct effectors and that different modes of recruitment for Gab1 are required in different organs.

Integrating signals from RTKs to ERK/MAPK

Signals received at the cell surface must be properly transmitted to critical targets within the cell to achieve the appropriate biological response. This process of signal transduction is often initiated by receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), which function as entry points for many extracellular cues and play a critical role in recruiting the intracellular signaling cascades that orchestrate a particular response. Essential for most RTK-mediated signaling is the engagement and activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade comprised of the Raf, MEK and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) kinases. For many years, it was thought that signaling from RTKs to ERK occurred only at the plasma membrane and was mediated by a simple, linear Ras-dependent pathway. However, the limitation of this model became apparent with the discovery that Ras and ERK can be activated at various intracellular compartments, and that RTKs can modulate Ras/ERK signaling from these sites. Moreover, ERK scaffolding proteins and signaling modulators have been identified that play critical roles in determining the strength, duration and location of RTK-mediated ERK signaling. Together, these factors contribute to the diversity of biological responses generated by RTK signaling.

Protein tyrosine phosphatase function: the substrate perspective

It is now well established that the members of the PTP (protein tyrosine phosphatase) superfamily play critical roles in fundamental biological processes. Although there has been much progress in defining the function of PTPs, the task of identifying substrates for these enzymes still presents a challenge. Many PTPs have yet to have their physiological substrates identified. The focus of this review will be on the current state of knowledge of PTP substrates and the approaches used to identify them. We propose experimental criteria that should be satisfied in order to rigorously assign PTP substrates as bona fide. Finally, the progress that has been made in defining the biological roles of PTPs through the identification of their substrates will be discussed.

Design and functional activity of phosphopeptides with potential immunomodulating capacity, based on the sequence of Grb2-associated binder 1

A cell membrane permeable phosphopeptide corresponding to the SHP-2 binding motif of Grb2-associated binder 1 (Gab1) interferes with the Gab1 adaptor-dependent functions and modulates B cell receptor-triggered intracellular signaling in B cell tumors.

Bisindolylmaleimide I suppresses fibroblast growth factor-mediated activation of Erk MAP kinase in chondrocytes by preventing Shp2 association with the Frs2 and Gab1 adaptor proteins

Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) inhibit chondrocyte proliferation via the Erk MAP kinase pathway. Here, we explored the role of protein kinase C in FGF signaling in chondrocytes. Erk activity in FGF2-treated RCS (rat chondrosarcoma) chondrocytes or human primary chondrocytes was abolished by the protein kinase C inhibitor bisindolylmaleimide I (Bis I). Bis I inhibited FGF2-induced activation of MEK, Raf-1, and Ras members of Erk signaling module but not the FGF2-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of Frs2 or the kinase activity of FGFR3, demonstrating that it targets the Erk cascade immediately upstream of Ras. Indeed, Bis I abolished the FGF2-mediated association of Shp2 tyrosine phosphatase with Frs2 and Gab1 adaptor proteins necessary for proper Ras activation. We also determined which PKC isoform is involved in FGF2-mediated activation of Erk. When both conventional and novel PKCs expressed by RCS chondrocytes (PKCalpha, -gamma, -delta, and -epsilon) were down-regulated by phorbol ester, cells remained responsive to FGF2 with Erk activation, and this activation was sensitive to Bis I. Moreover, treatment with PKClambda/zeta pseudosubstrate lead to significant reduction of FGF2-mediated activation of Erk, suggesting involvement of an atypical PKC.

SHP-2 activates signaling of the nuclear factor of activated T cells to promote skeletal muscle growth

The formation of multinucleated myofibers is essential for the growth of skeletal muscle. The nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) promotes skeletal muscle growth. How NFAT responds to changes in extracellular cues to regulate skeletal muscle growth remains to be fully defined. In this study, we demonstrate that mice containing a skeletal muscle-specific deletion of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-2 (muscle creatine kinase [MCK]-SHP-2 null) exhibited a reduction in both myofiber size and type I slow myofiber number. We found that interleukin-4, an NFAT-regulated cytokine known to stimulate myofiber growth, was reduced in its expression in skeletal muscles of MCK-SHP-2-null mice. When SHP-2 was deleted during the differentiation of primary myoblasts, NFAT transcriptional activity and myotube multinucleation were impaired. Finally, SHP-2 coupled myotube multinucleation to an integrin-dependent pathway and activated NFAT by stimulating c-Src. Thus, SHP-2 transduces extracellular matrix stimuli to intracellular signaling pathways to promote skeletal muscle growth.

The Scaffolding Adapter Gab2, via Shp-2, Regulates Kit-evoked Mast Cell Proliferation by Activating the Rac/JNK Pathway

The scaffolding adapter Gab2 mediates cell signaling and responses evoked by various extracellular stimuli including several growth factors. Kit, the receptor for stem cell factor (SCF), plays a critical role in the proliferation and differentiation of a variety of cell types, including mast cells. Kit, via Tyr(567) and Tyr(719), activates Src family kinases (SFK) and PI3K respectively, which converge on the activation of a Rac/JNK pathway required for mast cell proliferation. However, how Kit Tyr(567) signals to Rac/JNK is not well understood. By analyzing Gab2(-/-) mast cells, we find that Gab2 is required for SCF-evoked proliferation, activation of Rac/JNK, and Ras. Upon Kit activation in wild-type mast cells, Gab2 becomes tyrosyl-phosphorylated and associates with Kit and Shp-2. Tyr(567), an SFK binding site in Kit, and SFK activity were required for Gab2 tyrosyl phosphorylation and association with Shp-2. By re-expressing Gab2 or a Gab2 mutant that cannot bind Shp-2 in Gab2(-/-) mast cells or acutely by deleting Shp-2 in mast cells, we found that Gab2 requires Shp-2 for SCF-evoked Rac/JNK, Ras activation, and mast cell proliferation. Lastly, by analyzing mast cells from mice with compound Gab2 and Kit Y719F mutations (i.e., Gab2(-/-): KitY719F/Y719F mice), we find that Gab2, acting in a parallel pathway to PI3K from Kit Tyr(719), regulates mast cell proliferation and development in specific tissues. Our data show that Gab2 via Shp-2 is critical for transmitting signals from Kit Tyr(567) to activate the Rac/JNK pathway controlling mast cell proliferation, which likely contributes to mast cell development in specific tissues.

Concerted functions of Gab1 and Shp2 in liver regeneration and hepatoprotection

Liver regeneration is a rapid and concerted response to injury, in which growth factor-generated intracellular signals result in activation of transcription factors, DNA synthesis, and hepatocyte proliferation. However, the link between cytoplasmic signals resulting in proliferative response to liver injury remains to be elucidated. We show here that association of Gab1 adaptor protein and Shp2 tyrosine phosphatase is a critical event at the early phase of liver regeneration. Partial hepatectomy (PH) rapidly and transiently induced assembly of a complex comprising Shp2 and tyrosine-phosphorylated Gab1 in wild-type hepatocytes. Consistently, liver-specific Shp2 knockout (LSKO) and liver-specific Gab1 knockout (LGKO) mice displayed very similar phenotypes of defective liver regeneration triggered by PH, including blunted extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (Erk1/2) activation, decreased expression of immediate-early genes, and reduced levels of cyclins A, E, and B1, as well as suppression of hepatocyte proliferation. In contrast, the Akt and interleukin-6/Stat3 pathways were up-regulated posthepatectomy in LSKO and LGKO mice, accompanied by improved hepatoprotection. Collectively, this study establishes the physiological significance of the Gab1/Shp2 link in promoting mitogenic signaling through the Erk pathway in mammalian liver regeneration.

The adaptor protein Gab1 couples the stimulation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 to the activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase

Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) mediates essential functions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), including the stimulation of endothelial cell proliferation and migration. Nevertheless, the mechanisms coupling the receptor VEGFR-2 to PI3K remain obscure. We observed that the Grb2-bound adapter Gab1 is tyrosine-phosphorylated and relocated to membrane fractions upon VEGF stimulation of endothelial cells. We could detect the PI3K regulatory subunit p85 in immunoprecipitates of endogenous Gab1, and vice versa, and measure a Gab1-associated lipid kinase activity upon VEGF stimulation. Furthermore, transfection of the Gab1-YF3 mutant lacking all p85-binding sites strongly repressed PI3K activation measured in vitro. Moreover, Gab1-YF3 severely decreased the cellular amount of phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PtdIns(3,4,5)P3) generated in response to VEGF. Furthermore, adenoviral expression of Gab1-YF3 suppressed both Akt phosphorylation and recovery of wounded human umbilical vein endothelial cell monolayers, a VEGF-dependent process involving cell migration and proliferation under PI3K control. Transfection of other Gab1 mutants, lacking Grb2-binding sites or the pleckstrin homology (PH) domain, also prevented Akt activation, further demonstrating Gab1 involvement in PI3K activation. These mutants were also used to show that interactions with both Grb2 and PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 mediate Gab1 recruitment by VEGFR-2. Importantly, Gab1 mobilization was impaired by (i) PI3K inhibitors, (ii) deletion of Gab1 PH domain, (iii) PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10) overexpression to repress PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 production, and (iv) overexpression of a competitor PH domain for PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 binding, which altogether demonstrated that PI3K is also an upstream regulator of Gab1. Gab1 thus appears as a primary actor in coupling VEGFR-2 to PI3K/Akt, recruited through an amplification loop involving PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 and its PH domain.

Antagonism or synergism. Role of tyrosine phosphatases SHP-1 and SHP-2 in growth factor signaling

SHP-1 and SHP-2 are two Src homology 2 domain-containing tyrosine phosphatases with major pathological implications in cell growth regulating signaling. They share significant overall sequence identity, but their biological functions are often opposite. SHP-1 is generally considered as a negative signal transducer and SHP-2 as a positive one. However, the precise role of each enzyme in shared signaling pathways is not well defined. In this study, we investigated the interaction of these two enzymes in a single cell system by knocking down their expressions with small interfering RNAs and analyzing the effects on epidermal growth factor signaling. Interestingly, knockdown of either SHP-1 or SHP-2 caused significant reduction in the activation of ERK1/2 but not Akt. Furthermore, SHP-1, SHP-2, and Gab1 formed a signaling complex, and SHP-1 and SHP-2 interact with each other. The interaction of SHP-1 with Gab1 is mediated by SHP-2 because it was abrogated by knockdown of SHP-2, and SHP-2, but not SHP-1, binds directly to tyrosine-phosphorylated Gab1. Together, the data revealed that both SHP-1 and SHP-2 have a positive role in epidermal growth factor-induced ERK1/2 activation and that they act cooperatively rather than antagonistically. The interaction of SHP-1 and SHP-2 may be responsible for previously unexpected novel regulatory mechanism of cell signaling by tyrosine phosphatases.

Scaffolding protein Grb2-associated binder 1 sustains epidermal growth factor-induced mitogenic and survival signaling by multiple positive feedback loops

Grb2-associated binder 1 (GAB1) is a scaffold protein involved in numerous interactions that propagate signaling by growth factor and cytokine receptors. Here we explore in silico and validate in vivo the role of GAB1 in the control of mitogenic (Ras/MAPK) and survival (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt) signaling stimulated by epidermal growth factor (EGF). We built a comprehensive mechanistic model that allows for reliable predictions of temporal patterns of cellular responses to EGF under diverse perturbations, including different EGF doses, GAB1 suppression, expression of mutant proteins, and pharmacological inhibitors. We show that the temporal dynamics of GAB1 tyrosine phosphorylation is significantly controlled by positive GAB1-PI3K feedback and negative MAPK-GAB1 feedback. Our experimental and computational results demonstrate that the essential function of GAB1 is to enhance PI3K/Akt activation and extend the duration of Ras/MAPK signaling. By amplifying positive interactions between survival and mitogenic pathways, GAB1 plays the critical role in cell proliferation and tumorigenesis.

An Shp2/SFK/Ras/Erk signaling pathway controls trophoblast stem cell survival

Little is known about how growth factors control tissue stem cell survival and proliferation. We analyzed mice with a null mutation of Shp2 (Ptpn11), a key component of receptor tyrosine kinase signaling. Null embryos die peri-implantation, much earlier than mice that express an Shp2 truncation. Shp2 null blastocysts initially develop normally, but they subsequently exhibit inner cell mass death, diminished numbers of trophoblast giant cells, and failure to yield trophoblast stem (TS) cell lines. Molecular markers reveal that the trophoblast lineage, which requires fibroblast growth factor-4 (FGF4), is specified but fails to expand normally. Moreover, deletion of Shp2 in TS cells causes rapid apoptosis. We show that Shp2 is required for FGF4-evoked activation of the Src/Ras/Erk pathway that culminates in phosphorylation and destabilization of the proapoptotic protein Bim. Bim depletion substantially blocks apoptosis and significantly restores Shp2 null TS cell proliferation, thereby establishing a key mechanism by which FGF4 controls stem cell survival.

Reduced phosphatase activity of SHP-2 in LEOPARD syndrome: Consequences for PI3K binding on Gab1

LEOPARD (LS) and Noonan (NS) are overlapping syndromes associated with distinct mutations of SHP-2. Whereas NS mutations enhance SHP-2 catalytic activity, we show that the activity of three representative LS mutants is undetectable when assayed using a standard protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) substrate. A different assay using a specific SHP-2 substrate confirms their decreased PTP activity, but also reveals a significant activity of the T468M mutant. In transfected cells stimulated with epidermal growth factor, the least active LS mutants promote Gab1/PI3K binding, validating our in vitro data. LS mutants thus display a reduced PTP activity both in vitro and in transfected cells.

Protein-tyrosine phosphatases and cancer

Tyrosine phosphorylation is an important signalling mechanism in eukaryotic cells. In cancer, oncogenic activation of tyrosine kinases is a common feature, and novel anticancer drugs have been introduced that target these enzymes. Tyrosine phosphorylation is also controlled by protein-tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). Recent evidence has shown that PTPs can function as tumour suppressors. In addition, some PTPs, including SHP2, positively regulate the signalling of growth-factor receptors, and can be oncogenic. An improved understanding of how these enzymes function and how they are regulated might aid the development of new anticancer agents.

Increased Proliferation and Altered Growth Factor Dependence of Human Mammary Epithelial Cells Overexpressing the Gab2 Docking Protein

The docking protein Gab2 is a proto-oncogene product that is overexpressed in primary breast cancers. To determine the functional consequences of Gab2 overexpression, we utilized the immortalized human mammary epithelial cell line MCF-10A. In monolayer culture, expression of Gab2 at levels comparable with those detected in human breast cancer cells accelerated epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced cell cycle progression and was associated with increased basal Stat5 tyrosine phosphorylation and enhanced and/or more sustained EGF-induced Erk and Akt activation. Three-dimensional Matrigel culture of MCF-10A cells resulted in the formation of polarized, growth-arrested acini with hollow lumina. Under these conditions, Gab2 increased cell proliferation during morphogenesis, leading to significantly larger acini, an effect dependent on Gab2 binding to Grb2 and Shp2 and enhanced by recruitment of the p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. Pharmacological inhibition of MEK revealed that, in addition to direct activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, increased Erk signaling also contributed to Gab2-mediated enhancement of acinar size. In addition, Gab2 overcame the proliferative suppression that normally occurs in late stage cultures and conferred independence of the morphogenetic program from exogenous EGF. Finally, higher levels of Gab2 expression led to the formation of large disorganized structures with defective luminal clearance. These findings support a role for Gab2 in mammary tumorigenesis.