Cell signaling by receptor tyrosine kinases

Immunohistochemical analysis of bFGF, TGF-beta1 and catalase in rectus abdominis muscle from cattle foetuses at 180 and 260 days post-conception

The potential for muscle growth depends on myoblast proliferation, which occurs essentially during the first two thirds of the foetal period in cattle. Thereafter, myofibres acquire their contractile and metabolic properties. Proliferation is regulated by molecular growth factors and by the tissue oxidative activity. The aim of this study was the quantification by immunochemistry of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta1) and also of enzyme catalase (CAT) activity in rectus abdominis muscle. Samples were collected from cattle foetuses of different growth potential at 180 and 260 days post-conception (dpc). One major conclusion from this work is that protein contents of the muscle tissue bFGF and, to a lower extent, CAT activity decreased with increasing age during the foetal life. No differences were found between the different genotypes of cattle. However, the CAT to bFGF ratio tended to be lower in fast-growing cattle and increased with foetal age. TGF-beta1 did not change with age and was localised mostly at the vascular bed. CAT was detected in smooth and rough reticulum in striated muscles at 180dpc, and additionally in mitochondria at 260dpc. In conclusion, the balance between intracellular growth factors (bFGF and TGF-beta1) and the activity of antioxidant enzyme CAT may participate in the regulation of the transition from myoblast proliferation to differentiation. Thus, increased ratio of CAT to bFGF might be a good index indicating initiation of muscle maturation in cattle foetus prior to birth.

Structure of the epidermal growth factor receptor kinase domain alone and in complex with a 4-anilinoquinazoline inhibitor

The crystal structure of the kinase domain from the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFRK) including forty amino acids from the carboxyl-terminal tail has been determined to 2.6-A resolution, both with and without an EGFRK-specific inhibitor currently in Phase III clinical trials as an anti-cancer agent, erlotinib (OSI-774, CP-358,774, Tarceva(TM)). The EGFR family members are distinguished from all other known receptor tyrosine kinases in possessing constitutive kinase activity without a phosphorylation event within their kinase domains. Despite its lack of phosphorylation, we find that the EGFRK activation loop adopts a conformation similar to that of the phosphorylated active form of the kinase domain from the insulin receptor. Surprisingly, key residues of a putative dimerization motif lying between the EGFRK domain and carboxyl-terminal substrate docking sites are found in close contact with the kinase domain. Significant intermolecular contacts involving the carboxyl-terminal tail are discussed with respect to receptor oligomerization.

Crystal structure of a C-terminal fragment of growth arrest-specific protein Gas6. Receptor tyrosine kinase activation by laminin G-like domains

Receptor tyrosine kinases of the Axl family are activated by Gas6, the product of growth arrest-specific gene 6. Gas6-Axl signaling is implicated in cell survival, adhesion, and migration. The receptor-binding site of Gas6 is located within a C-terminal pair of laminin G-like (LG) domains that do not resemble any other receptor tyrosine kinase ligand. We report the crystal structure at 2.2-A resolution of a Gas6 fragment spanning both LG domains (Gas6-LG). The structure reveals a V-shaped arrangement of LG domains strengthened by an interdomain calcium-binding site. LG2 of Gas6-LG contains two unusual features: an alpha-helix cradled by one edge of the LG beta-sandwich and a conspicuous patch of surface-exposed hydrophobic residues. Mutagenesis of some residues in this patch reduces Gas6-LG binding to the extracellular domain of Axl as well as Axl activation in glioblastoma cells, identifying a component of the receptor-binding site of Gas6.

Distinct usages of phospholipase C gamma and Shc in intracellular signaling stimulated by neurotrophins

Nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), members of the neurotrophin family, bind to and activate TrkA, TrkB and TrkC, respectively, members of the Trk receptor tyrosine kinase family, to exert various effects including promotion of differentiation and survival, and regulation of synaptic plasticity in neuronal cells. Many reports have suggested that different neurotrophins show distinct biological functions, although molecular mechanisms by which neurotrophins exert their different functions remain unclear. In the present study, we found distinct usages of phospholipase Cgamma (PLCgamma) and Shc in intracellular signaling stimulated by neurotrophins. BDNF stimulated much stronger interactions of PLCgamma with Trk than NGF and NT-3 in PC12 cells stably expressing TrkB and cultured cerebral cortical neurons, respectively, although BDNF, NGF and NT-3 induced similar levels of tyrosine phosphorylation of Trk. Furthermore, the cultured cortical neurons showed large PLCgamma-dependent increases in intracellular Ca(2+) levels in response to BDNF compared with NT-3. In Shc signaling, NGF, but not BDNF, displayed interactions between Trk and Shc in a phenylarsine oxide (PAO; an inhibitor of tyrosine phosphatase)-dependent manner in TrkB-expressing PC12 cells. These results indicated that neurotrophins stimulate distinct kinds of interactions between Trk and PLCgamma and between Trk and Shc. These differences may lead to the distinct biological functions of neurotrophins.

In vivo regulation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase in retina through light-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of the insulin receptor beta-subunit

Recently, we have shown that phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) in bovine rod outer segment (ROS) is activated in vitro by tyrosine phosphorylation of the C-terminal tail of the insulin receptor (Rajala, R. V. S., and Anderson, R. E. (2001) Invest. Ophthal. Vis. Sci. 42, 3110-3117). In this study, we have investigated the in vivo mechanism of PI3K activation in the rodent retina and report the novel finding that light stimulates tyrosine phosphorylation of the beta-subunit of the insulin receptor (IRbeta) in ROS membranes, which leads to the association of PI3K enzyme activity with IRbeta. Retinas from light- or dark-adapted mice and rats were homogenized and immunoprecipitated with antibodies against phosphotyrosine, IRbeta, or the p85 regulatory subunit of PI3K, and PI3K activity was measured using PI-4,5-P(2) as substrate. We observed a light-dependent increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of IRbeta and an increase in PI3K enzyme activity in isolated ROS and in anti-phosphotyrosine and anti-IRbeta immunoprecipitates of retinal homogenates. The light effect was localized to photoreceptor neurons and is independent of insulin secretion. Our results suggest that light induces tyrosine phosphorylation of IRbeta in outer segment membranes, which leads to the binding of p85 through its N-terminal Src homology 2 domain and the generation of PI-3,4,5-P(3). We suggest that the physiological role of this process may be to provide neuroprotection of the retina against light damage by activating proteins that protect against stress-induced apoptosis.

Sprouty1 and Sprouty2 provide a control mechanism for the Ras/MAPK signalling pathway

Sprouty (Spry) inhibits signalling by receptor tyrosine kinases; however, the molecular mechanism underlying this function has not been defined. Here we show that after stimulation by growth factors Spry1 and Spry2 translocate to the plasma membrane and become phosphorylated on a conserved tyrosine. Next, they bind to the adaptor protein Grb2 and inhibit the recruitment of the Grb2-Sos complex either to the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) docking adaptor protein FRS2 or to Shp2. Membrane translocation of Spry is necessary for its phosphorylation, which is essential for its inhibitor activity. A tyrosine-phosphorylated octapeptide derived from mouse Spry2 inhibits Grb2 from binding FRS2, Shp2 or mouse Spry2 in vitro and blocks activation of the extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) in cells stimulated by growth factor. A non-phosphorylated Spry mutant cannot bind Grb2 and acts as a dominant negative, inducing prolonged activation of ERK in response to FGF and promoting the FGF-induced outgrowth of neurites in PC12 cells. Our findings suggest that Spry functions in a negative feedback mechanism in which its inhibitor activity is controlled rapidly and reversibly by post-translational mechanisms.

Keeping the receptor tyrosine kinase signaling pathway in check: lessons from Drosophila

The receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling network plays a central role in regulating cellular differentiation, proliferation, and survival in all metazoan animals. Excessive or continuous activation of the RTK pathway has been linked to carcinogenesis in mammals, underscoring the importance of preventing uncontrolled signaling. This review will focus on the inhibitory mechanisms that keep RTK-mediated signals in check, with emphasis on conserved principles discerned from studies using Drosophila as a model system. Two general strategies of inhibition will be discussed. The first, threshold regulation, postulates that an effective way of antagonizing RTK signaling is to erect and maintain high threshold barriers that prevent inappropriate responses to moderate signaling levels. Activation of the pathway above this level overcomes the inhibitory blocks and shifts the balance to allow a positive flow of inductive information. A second layer of negative regulation involving induction of negative feedback loops that limit the extent, strength, or duration of the signal prevents runaway signaling in response to the high levels of activation required to surmount the threshold barriers. Such autoinhibitory mechanisms attenuate signaling at critical points throughout the network, from the receptor to the downstream effectors.

Role of tyrosine kinase signaling in endothelial cell barrier regulation

Phosphorylation of proteins on tyrosine acts as a reversible and specific trigger mechanism, forming or disrupting regulatory connections between proteins. Tyrosine kinases and phosphatases participate in multiple cellular processes, and considerable evidence now supports a role for tyrosine phosphorylation in vascular permeability. A semipermeable barrier between the vascular compartment and the interstitium is maintained by the integrity of endothelial monolayer, controlling movement of fluids, macromolecules and leucocytes. Barrier function is regulated by the adjustment of paracellular gaps between endothelial cells (ECs) by two antagonistic forces, centripetal cytoskeletal tension and opposing cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion forces. Both cytoskeletal filaments and adhesion sites are intimately linked in complex machinery which is regulated by multiple signaling events including protein phosphorylation and/or protein translocation to specific intracellular positions. Tyrosine kinases occupy key positions in the mechanism controlling cell responses mediated through various cell surface receptors, which use tyrosine phosphorylation to transduce extracellular signal.

Genetic alterations of multiple tumor suppressors and oncogenes in the carcinogenesis and progression of lung cancer

Lung cancer has become the leading cause of cancer death in many economically well-developed countries. Recent molecular biological studies have revealed that overt lung cancers frequently develop through sequential morphological steps, with the accumulation of multiple genetic and epigenetic alterations affecting both tumor suppressor genes and dominant oncogenes. Cell cycle progression needs to be properly regulated, while cells have built-in complex and minute mechanisms such as cell cycle checkpoints to maintain genomic integrity. Genes in the p16INK4A-RB and p14ARF-p53 pathways appear to be a major target for genetic alterations involved in the pathogenesis of lung cancer. Several oncogenes are also known to be altered in lung cancer, leading to the stimulation of autocrine/paracrine loops and activation of multiple signaling pathways. It is widely acknowledged that carcinogens in cigarette smoke are deeply involved in these multiple genetic alterations, mainly through the formation of DNA adducts. A current understanding of the molecular mechanisms of lung cancer pathogenesis and progression is presented in relation to cigarette smoking, an absolute major risk factor for lung cancer development, by reviewing genetic alterations of various tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes thus far identified in lung cancer, with brief summaries of their functions and regulation.

Gab1 and SHP-2 promote Ras/MAPK regulation of epidermal growth and differentiation

In epidermis, Ras can influence proliferation and differentiation; however, regulators of epidermal Ras function are not fully characterized, and Ras effects on growth and differentiation are controversial. EGF induced Ras activation in epidermal cells along with phosphorylation of the multisubstrate docking protein Gab1 and its binding to SHP-2. Expression of mutant Gab1Y627F deficient in SHP-2 binding or dominant-negative SHP-2C459S reduced basal levels of active Ras and downstream MAPK proteins and initiated differentiation. Differentiation triggered by both Gab1Y627F and SHP-2C459S could be blocked by coexpression of active Ras, consistent with Gab1 and SHP-2 action upstream of Ras in this process. To study the role of Gab1 and SHP-2 in tissue, we generated human epidermis overexpressing active Gab1 and SHP-2. Both proteins stimulated proliferation. In contrast, Gab1Y627F and SHP-2C459S inhibited epidermal proliferation and enhanced differentiation. Consistent with a role for Gab1 and SHP-2 in sustaining epidermal Ras/MAPK activity, Gab1-/- murine epidermis displayed lower levels of active Ras and MAPK with postnatal Gab1-/- epidermis, demonstrating the hypoplasia and enhanced differentiation seen previously with transgenic epidermal Ras blockade. These data provide support for a Ras role in promoting epidermal proliferation and opposing differentiation and indicate that Gab1 and SHP-2 promote the undifferentiated epidermal cell state by facilitating Ras/MAPK signaling.

Dual inhibition of focal adhesion kinase and epidermal growth factor receptor pathways cooperatively induces death receptor-mediated apoptosis in human breast cancer cells

The focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are protein-tyrosine kinases that are overexpressed and activated in human breast cancer. To determine the role of EGFR and FAK survival signaling in breast cancer, EGFR was stably overexpressed in BT474 breast cancer cells, and each signaling pathway was specifically targeted for inhibition. FAK and EGFR constitutively co-immunoprecipitated in EGFR-overexpressing BT474 cells. In low EGFR-expressing BT474-pcDNA3 vector control cells, inhibition of FAK by the FAK C-terminal domain caused detachment and apoptosis via pathways involving activation of caspase-3 and -8, cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, and caspase-3-dependent degradation of AKT. This apoptosis could be rescued by the dominant-negative Fas-associated death domain, indicating involvement of the death receptor pathway. EGFR overexpression did not inhibit detachment induced by the FAK C-terminal domain, but did suppress apoptosis, activating AKT and ERK1/2 survival pathways and inhibiting cleavage of FAK, caspase-3 and -8, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. Furthermore, this protective effect of EGFR signaling was reversed by EGFR kinase inhibition with AG1478. In addition, inhibition of FAK and EGFR in another breast cancer cell line (BT20) endogenously overexpressing these kinases also induced apoptosis via the same mechanism as in the EGFR-overexpressing BT474 cells. The results of this study indicate that dual inhibition of FAK and EGFR signaling pathways can cooperatively enhance apoptosis in breast cancers.

Structural aspects of oligomerization taking place between the transmembrane alpha-helices of bitopic membrane proteins

Recent advances in biophysical methods have been able to shed more light on the structures of helical bundles formed by the transmembrane segments of bitopic membrane proteins. In this manuscript, I attempt to review the biological importance and diversity of these interactions, the energetics of bundle formation, motifs capable of inducing oligomerization and methods capable of detecting, solving and predicting the structures of these oligomeric bundles. Finally, the structures of the best characterized instances of transmembrane alpha-helical bundles formed by bitopic membrane proteins are described in detail.

Insight into the role of low molecular weight phosphotyrosine phosphatase (LMW-PTP) on platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGF-r) signaling. LMW-PTP controls PDGF-r kinase activity through TYR-857 dephosphorylation

Low molecular weight phosphotyrosine phosphatase (LMW-PTP) is an enzyme involved in platelet-derived growth factor-induced mitogenesis and cytoskeleton rearrangement. Our previous results demonstrated that LMW-PTP is able to bind and dephosphorylate activated platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGF-r), thus inhibiting cell proliferation. Here we revisit the role of LMW-PTP on activated PDGF-r dephosphorylation. We demonstrate that LMW-PTP preferentially acts on cell surface PDGF-r, excluding the internalized activated receptor pool. Many phosphotyrosine phosphatases act by site-selective dephosphorylation on several sites of PDGF-r, but until now, there has been no evidence of a direct involvement of a specific phosphotyrosine phosphatase in the dephosphorylation of the 857 kinase domain activation tyrosine. Here we report that LMW-PTP affects the kinase activity of the receptor through the binding and dephosphorylation of Tyr-857 and influences many of the signal outputs from the receptor. In particular, we demonstrate a down-regulation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, Src homology phosphatase-2, and phospholipase C-gamma1 binding but not of MAPK activation. In addition, we report a slight action of LMW-PTP on Tyr-716, which directs MAPK activation through Grb2 binding. On the basis of these results, we propose a key role for LMW-PTP in PDGF-r down-regulation through the dephosphorylation of the activation loop Tyr-857, thus determining a general negative regulation of all downstream signals, with the exception of those elicited by internalized receptors.

CIN85/CMS family of adaptor molecules

CIN85 and CMS belong to a family of ubiquitously expressed adaptor molecules containing three SH3 domains, a proline-rich region and a coiled-coil domain. By binding to numerous proteins they assemble multimeric complexes implicated in cell-specific signals controlling T-cell activation, kidney glomeruli function or apoptosis in neuronal cells. CIN85/CMS also associate with accessory endocytic proteins, components of the actin cytoskeleton as well as other adaptor proteins involved in receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling. These interactions enable CIN85/CMS to function within a network of signaling pathways that co-ordinate critical steps involved in downregulation and degradation of RTKs.

Probing intermolecular protein-protein interactions in the calcium-sensing receptor homodimer using bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET)

The calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) belongs to family C of the G-protein coupled receptor superfamily. The receptor is believed to exist as a homodimer due to covalent and non-covalent interactions between the two amino terminal domains (ATDs). It is well established that agonist binding to family C receptors takes place at the ATD and that this causes the ATD dimer to twist. However, very little is known about the translation of the ATD dimer twist into G-protein coupling to the 7 transmembrane moieties (7TMs) of these receptor dimers. In this study we have attempted to delineate the agonist-induced intermolecular movements in the CaR homodimer using the new bioluminescence resonance energy transfer technique, BRET2, which is based on the transference of energy from Renilla luciferase (Rluc) to the green fluorescent protein mutant GFP2. We tagged CaR with Rluc and GFP2 at different intracellular locations. Stable and highly receptor-specific BRET signals were obtained in tsA cells transfected with Rluc- and GFP2-tagged CaRs under basal conditions, indicating that CaR is constitutively dimerized. However, the signals were not enhanced by the presence of agonist. These results could indicate that at least parts of the two 7TMs of the CaR homodimer are in close proximity in the inactivated state of the receptor and do not move much relative to one another upon agonist activation. However, we cannot exclude the possibility that the BRET technology is unable to register putative conformational changes in the CaR homodimer induced by agonist binding because of the bulk sizes of the Rluc and GFP2 molecules.

Inhibitory effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on the hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced tyrosine kinase activation in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells

We have previously reported that the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) inhibited the abnormal gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) induced by hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) via suppressing tyrosine kinase (TK) activation (Zhang et al., Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids, 1999; 61: 33-40). However, the mechanisms by which EPA-inhibited TK activation remained unidentified. In this study we investigated whether reactive oxygen species (ROS) and growth factor-receptor systems would contribute to the H/R-induced TK activation or not. The results showed that H/R-induced ROS production, which reached the peak after 30 min of reoxygenation. Pretreatment with 10 microM EPA significantly inhibited this ROS production. However, the TK inhibitor genistein (10 microM) failed to inhibit the generation of ROS, although it completely inhibited TK activation. On the other hand, the ROS inhibitor DMSO (0.5% v/v) showed little effect on TK activation while it significantly blocked ROS production. Further EPA and genistein, but not DMSO and superoxide dismutase (SOD, 300 U/ml), prevented cells from GJIC injury induced by H/R. Moreover, EPA protected against VEGF-induced reduction in GJIC and phosphorylation of connexin 43. These data suggest that growth factor, but not ROS, might be involved in the EPA-inhibited TK activation induced by H/R.

The docking protein FRS2alpha controls a MAP kinase-mediated negative feedback mechanism for signaling by FGF receptors

The docking protein FRS2alpha functions as a major mediator of signaling by FGF and NGF receptors. Here we demonstrate that, in addition to tyrosine phosphorylation, FRS2alpha is phosphorylated by MAP kinase on multiple threonine residues in response to FGF stimulation or by insulin, EGF, and PDGF, extracellular stimuli that do not induce tyrosine phosphorylation of FRS2alpha. Prevention of FRS2alpha threonine phosphorylation results in constitutive tyrosine phosphorylation of FRS2alpha in unstimulated cells and enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation of FRS2alpha, MAPK stimulation, cell migration, and proliferation in FGF-stimulated cells. Expression of an FRS2alpha mutant deficient in MAPK phosphorylation sites induces anchorage-independent cell growth and colony formation in soft agar. These experiments reveal a novel MAPK-mediated, negative feedback mechanism for control of signaling pathways that are dependent on FRS2 and a mechanism for heterologous control of signaling via FGF receptors.

Eps8 in the midst of GTPases

Eps8, originally identified as a substrate for the kinase activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), displays a domain organization typical of a signaling molecule that includes a putative N-terminal PTB domain, a central SH3 domain, and a C-terminal "effector region". This latter region directs Eps8 localization within the cell and is sufficient to activate the GTPase, Rac, leading to actin cytoskeletal remodeling. Eps8 binds, through its SH3 domain, to either Abi1 (also called E3b1) or RN-tre. Abi1 scaffolds together Eps8 and Sos1, a dual specificity guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Ras and Rac proteins, thus facilitating the formation of a trimeric complex, in turn required for activation of Rac. On the other hand, RN-tre, a Rab5 GTPase activating protein, by entering in a complex with Eps8, inhibits EGFR internalization. Furthermore, RN-tre competes with Abi1 for binding to Eps8, diverting the latter from its Rac-activating function. Thus, depending on its engagement in different complexes, Eps8 participates to EGFR signaling through Rac and endocytosis through Rab5.

Targeting molecular mechanisms in cancer

Malignant disease is characterized by the disregulated growth of transformed cells. In recent years, dramatic insight into the molecular mechanisms of this phenomenon have come from basic cancer research. Detailed knowledge of the molecular pathology of cancer allows therapeutic agents to be designed that specifically target aberrant cellular processes. There are currently a number of targeted treatment strategies being evaluated. In the future, it is likely that this mechanistic approach will have a significant impact on clinical oncology and the diagnostic evaluation of tumours.

Organization of the receptor-kinase signaling array that regulates Escherichia coli chemotaxis

Motor behavior in prokaryotes is regulated by a phosphorelay network involving a histidine protein kinase, CheA, whose activity is controlled by a family of Type I membrane receptors. In a typical Escherichia coli cell, several thousand receptors are organized together with CheA and an Src homology 3-like protein, CheW, into complexes that tend to be localized at the cell poles. We found that these complexes have at least 6 receptors per CheA. CheW is not required for CheA binding to receptors, but is essential for kinase activation. The kinase activity per mole of bound CheA is proportional to the total bound CheW. Similar results were obtained with the E. coli serine receptor, Tsr, and the Salmonella typhimurium aspartate receptor, Tar. In the case of Tsr, under conditions optimal for kinase activation, the ratio of subunits in complexes is approximately 6 Tsr:4 CheW:1 CheA. Our results indicate that information from numerous receptors is integrated to control the activity of a relatively small number of kinase molecules.

Expression of RALT, a feedback inhibitor of ErbB receptors, is subjected to an integrated transcriptional and post-translational control

Over-expression studies have demonstrated that RALT (receptor associated late transducer) is a feedback inhibitor of ErbB-2 mitogenic and transforming signals. In growth-arrested cells, expression of endogenous RALT is induced by mitogenic stimuli, is high throughout mid to late G1 and returns to baseline as cells move into S phase. Here, we show that physiological levels of RALT effectively suppress ErbB-2 mitogenic signals. We also investigate the regulatory mechanisms that preside to the control of RALT expression. We demonstrate that pharmacological ablation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation leads to blockade of RALT expression, unlike genetic and/or pharmacological interference with the activities of PKC, Src family kinases, p38 SAPK and PI-3K. Tamoxifen-dependent activation of an inducible Raf : ER chimera was sufficient to induce RALT expression. Thus, activation of the Ras-Raf-ERK pathway is necessary and sufficient to drive RALT expression. The RALT protein is labile and was found to accumulate robustly upon pharmacological inhibition of the proteasome. We were able to detect ubiquitin-conjugated RALT species in living cells, suggesting that ubiquitinylation targets RALT for proteasome-dependent degradation. Such an integrated transcriptional and post-translational control is likely to provide RALT with the ability to fluctuate timely in order to tune ErbB signals.

Construction and characterization of E1-minus replication-defective adenovirus vectors that express E3 proteins from the E1 region

Previous research has indicated that the adenovirus protein complex named RID, derived from the E3 transcription unit, functions to remove the receptors named Fas/Apo1/CD95 (Fas) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) from the surface of cells. (The RID complex is composed of the RIDalpha and RIDbeta polypeptides, previously named 10.4K and 14.5K, respectively.) In response to RID, Fas and EGFR appear to be internalized into endosomes and degraded in lysosomes. Fas is a death receptor in the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily. RID inhibits apoptosis via the Fas pathway, presumably because RID gets rid of Fas. Earlier work further showed that another adenovirus E3-coded protein, E3-14.7K, inhibits apoptosis induced by TNF. Most of the above studies have been conducted using viable virus mutants that lack one or more of the genes for RID, E3-14.7K, or E1B-19K (this protein, coded by the E1B transcription unit, also inhibits apoptosis via the TNF and Fas pathways). Some studies have also been conducted with the genes for RID or E3-14.7K transiently or stably transfected into cells. We now report a new approach to studying the E3 genes. We have constructed four E1-minus replication-defective vectors that have all the E3 genes deleted from their natural position and then reinserted, in different permutations, into the deleted E1 region under control of the cytomegalovirus immediate early promoter. Vector Ad/RID only has the genes for RIDalpha and RIDbeta. Vector Ad/14.7K only has the gene for E3-14.7K. Vector Ad/RID/14.7K only has the genes for RIDalpha, RIDbeta, and E3-14.7K. Vector Ad/E3 has all E3 genes, but there are two missense mutations in the gene for Adenovirus Death Protein. These vectors expressed RID and/or E3-14.7K, as expected. The RID-expressing vectors forced the internalization and degradation of Fas and EGFR, and they inhibited apoptosis induced through the Fas pathway. These vectors should be useful reagents to study the E3 proteins.

Signal transduction by protein tyrosine nitration: competition or cooperation with tyrosine phosphorylation-dependent signaling events?

This review article is an attempt to stimulate a discussion on the significance of protein tyrosine nitration to cellular signaling and its relationships with protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Initially, it provides basic information on growth factor and oxidants as modulators/mediators of tyrosine phosphorylation-dependent signal transduction pathways. The effects of exogenous and endogenous tyrosine nitration on such pathways were examined by reviewing published and unpublished observations. From an initial perspective that tyrosine nitration was a toxic manifestation of nitric oxide, the concept evolved to a protein modification that could also function in cellular signaling events, possibly cooperating with tyrosine phosphorylation.

The long and short isoforms of Ret function as independent signaling complexes

Ret, the receptor tyrosine kinase for the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor family ligands (GFLs), is alternatively spliced to yield at least two isoforms, Ret9 and Ret51, which differ only in their C termini. To identify tyrosines in Ret that are autophosphorylation sites in neurons, we generated antibodies specific to phosphorylated Y905Ret, Y1015Ret, Y1062Ret, and Y1096Ret, all of which are autophosphorylated in cell lines. All four of these tyrosines in Ret became phosphorylated rapidly upon activation by GFLs in sympathetic neurons. These tyrosines remained phosphorylated in sympathetic neurons in the continued presence of GFLs, albeit at a lower level than immediately after GFL treatment. Comparison of GFL activation of Ret9 and Ret51 revealed that phosphorylation of Tyr(905) and Tyr(1062) was greater and more sustained in Ret9 as compared with Ret51. In contrast, Tyr(1015) was more highly phosphorylated over time in Ret51 than in Ret9. Surprisingly, Ret9 and Ret51 did not associate with each other in sympathetic neurons after glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor stimulation, even though they share identical extracellular domains. Furthermore, the signaling complex associated with Ret9 was markedly different from the Ret51-associated signaling complex. Taken together, these data provide a biochemical basis for the dramatic functional differences between Ret9 and Ret 51 in vivo.

An EGFR/Ebi/Sno pathway promotes delta expression by inactivating Su(H)/SMRTER repression during inductive notch signaling

The Notch and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) pathways both regulate proliferation and differentiation, and the cellular response to each is often influenced by the other. Here, we describe a mechanism that links them in a sequential fashion, in the developing compound eye of Drosophila. EGFR activation induces photoreceptor (R cell) differentiation and promotes their expression of Delta. This Notch ligand then induces neighboring cells to become nonneuronal cone cells. ebi and strawberry notch (sno) regulate EGFR-dependent Delta transcription by antagonizing a repressor function of Suppressor of Hairless (Su(H)). Sno binds to Su(H), and Ebi, an F-box/WD40 protein, forms a complex with Su(H) and the corepressor SMRTER. EGFR-activated transcriptional derepression requires ebi and sno, is proteasome-dependent, and correlates with the translocation of SMRTER to the cytoplasm.

The role of signal transduction in cancer treatment and drug resistance

Drug resistance in the treatment of cancer still remains a major clinical challenge, in part due to an insufficient understanding of the pathways by which these drugs interact with the mechanisms underlying cellular behaviour and cancer pathogenesis. Signal transduction involves cell differentiation, proliferation and cell death with alterations in these mechanisms being involved in the pathogenesis of cancer. It has been postulated that such pathways could be linked to anti-cancer drug resistance. Recently, novel approaches to overcome anti-cancer drug resistance through manipulation of signal transduction pathways, have been introduced in clinical trials. In this article we present a review of the current understanding in the field of signal transduction and the existing evidence for its role in drug resistance. We also discuss its clinical relevance with regard to overcoming drug resistance.

Signalling shortcuts: cell-surface receptors in the nucleus?

Do cell-surface growth-factor receptors and their ligands accumulate in the nucleoplasm under physiological conditions? And, if so, how do they get there and what function do they serve in this location? Recent advances have provided tantalizing hints to the answers to these questions, and hold the key to identifying a new mode of signal transduction.

Mixed-lineage kinase control of JNK and p38 MAPK pathways

Mixed-lineage kinases (MLKs) are serine/threonine protein kinases that regulate signalling by the c-Jun amino-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated-protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. MLKs are represented in the genomes of both Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster. The Drosophila MLK Slipper regulates JNK to control dorsal closure during embryonic morphogenesis. In mammalian cells, MLKs are implicated in the control of apoptosis and are potential drug targets for many neurodegenerative diseases.

Ligand-Induced, Receptor-Mediated Dimerization and Activation of EGF Receptor

The EGF receptor mediates many cellular responses in normal biological processes and in pathological states. Recent structural studies reveal the molecular basis for ligand binding specificity and how ligand binding induces receptor dimerization. Receptor dimerization is mediated by receptor-receptor interactions in which a loop protruding from neighboring receptors mediates receptor dimerization and activation.

The nucleophosmin-anaplastic lymphoma kinase fusion protein induces c-Myc expression in pediatric anaplastic large cell lymphomas

The majority of pediatric anaplastic large cell lymphomas (ALCLs) carry the t(2;5)(p23;q35) chromosomal translocation that juxtaposes the dimerization domain of nucleophosmin with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). The nucleophosmin-ALK fusion induces constitutive, ligand-independent activation of the ALK tyrosine kinase leading to aberrant activation of cellular signaling pathways. To study the early consequences of ectopic ALK activation, a GyrB-ALK fusion was constructed that allowed regulated dimerization with the addition of coumermycin. Expression of the fusion protein caused a coumermycin-dependent increase in cellular tyrosine phosphorylation and c-Myc immunoreactivity, which was paralleled by a rise in c-myc RNA. To assess the clinical relevance of this observation, c-Myc expression was determined in pediatric ALK-positive and -negative lymphomas. Co-expression of c-Myc and ALK was seen in tumor cells in 15 of 15 (100%) ALK-positive ALCL samples, whereas no expression of either ALK or c-Myc was seen in six of six cases of ALK-negative T-cell lymphoma. C-Myc may be a downstream target of ALK signaling and its expression a defining characteristic of ALK-positive ALCLs.

Regulation and targets of receptor tyrosine kinases

Ligand-mediated activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) results in autophosphorylation of both the receptor catalytic domain and noncatalytic regions of the cytoplasmic domain. Catalytic domain phosphorylation leads to activation and potentiation of receptor kinase activity. Noncatalytic domain phosphorylation creates docking sites for downstream cytoplasmic targets, which bind to specific receptor phosphotyrosine residues. Downstream signaling pathways are constructed in a modular fashion. In addition to SH2 and PTB (phosphotyrosine binding) domains, downstream signal proteins also contain domains that recognize other protein and phospholipid motifs. The arrangement and re-arrangement of various combinations of modular domains in different signaling proteins (combinatorial use) has allowed for the creation of complex signaling networks and pathways. In addition to performing catalytic functions, signaling proteins serve as scaffolds for the assembly of multiprotein signaling complexes, as adaptors, as transcription factors and as signal pathway regulators. Recent results show that the juxtamembrane region of Eph receptors is important in receptor autoregulation. Mutations in the juxtamembrane region of several RTKs have been shown to play a role in oncogenesis. It is likely that dysregulation of other modular components of signaling pathways also plays a role in oncogenic transformation.

Crystal structure of the MuSK tyrosine kinase: insights into receptor autoregulation

Muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) is a receptor tyrosine kinase expressed selectively in skeletal muscle. During neuromuscular synapse formation, agrin released from motor neurons stimulates MuSK autophosphorylation in the kinase activation loop and in the juxtamembrane region, leading to clustering of acetylcholine receptors. We have determined the crystal structure of the cytoplasmic domain of unphosphorylated MuSK at 2.05 A resolution. The structure reveals an autoinhibited kinase domain in which the activation loop obstructs ATP and substrate binding. Steady-state kinetic analysis demonstrates that autophosphorylation results in a 200-fold increase in k(cat) and a 10-fold decrease in the K(m) for ATP. These studies provide a molecular basis for understanding the regulation of MuSK catalytic activity and suggest that an additional in vivo component may contribute to regulation via the juxtamembrane region.

Dominant negative effectors of heparin affin regulatory peptide (HARP) angiogenic and transforming activities

Heparin affin regulatory peptide (HARP) is an heparin-binding growth factor, highly expressed in several primary human tumors and considered as a rate-limiting angiogenic factor in tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. Implication of this protein in carcinogenesis is linked to its mitogenic, angiogenic, and transforming activities. Recently, we have demonstrated that the C-terminal residues 111-136 of HARP are required for its mitogenic and transforming activities (Bernard-Pierrot, I., Delbe, J., Caruelle, D., Barritault, D., Courty, J., and Milhiet, P. E. (2001) J. Biol. Chem. 276, 12228-12234). In this paper, HARP deleted of its last 26 amino acids was shown to act as a dominant negative effector for its mitogenic, angiogenic, transforming, and tumor-formation activities by heterodimerizing with the wild type protein. Similarly, the synthetic corresponding peptide P111-136 displayed in vitro inhibition of wild type HARP activities, but in this case, the inhibition was mainly explained by the competition of the peptide with HARP for the binding to the extracellular domain of the high affinity ALK receptor.

Deletion of the carboxyl terminus of Tie2 enhances kinase activity, signaling, and function. Evidence for an autoinhibitory mechanism

Tie2 is an endothelial receptor tyrosine kinase that is required for both embryonic vascular development and tumor angiogenesis. There is considerable interest in understanding the mechanisms of Tie2 activation for therapeutic purposes. The recent solution of the Tie2 crystal structure suggests that Tie2 activity is autoinhibited by its carboxyl terminus. Here we investigated the role of the C tail in Tie2 activation, signaling, and function both in vitro and in vivo by deleting the C terminus of Tie2 (Delta CT). Compared to wild type Tie2, in vitro autophosphorylation and kinase activity were significantly enhanced by the Delta CT mutation. In NIH 3T3 cells expressing chimeric Tie2 receptors, both basal and ligand-induced tyrosine phosphorylation were markedly enhanced compared to wild type in several independent clones of Tie2-Delta CT. Moreover, the Delta CT mutation enhanced basal and ligand-dependent activation of Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase. Enhanced Akt activation correlated with significant inhibition of staurosporine-induced apoptosis. These findings demonstrate that the Tie2 C tail performs a novel negative regulatory role in Tie2 signaling and function, and they provide important insights into the mechanisms by which the Tie2 kinase is activated.

Structure of the extracellular region of HER3 reveals an interdomain tether

We have determined the 2.6 angstrom crystal structure of the entire extracellular region of human HER3 (ErbB3), a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family. The structure consists of four domains with structural homology to domains found in the type I insulin-like growth factor receptor. The HER3 structure reveals a contact between domains II and IV that constrains the relative orientations of ligand-binding domains and provides a structural basis for understanding both multiple-affinity forms of EGFRs and conformational changes induced in the receptor by ligand binding during signaling. These results also suggest new therapeutic approaches to modulating the behavior of members of the EGFR family.

Chemical genetic blockade of transformation reveals dependence on aberrant oncogenic signaling

BACKGROUND

Our understanding of protein kinase inhibition in the treatment of cancer is clearly limited by the lack of inhibitors that selectively block a single kinase implicated in neoplastic transformation. One approach to developing specific inhibitors is to engineer in protein kinases silent mutations that allow selective inhibition while retaining kinase activity. Because it is implicated in a large number of malignancies, EGFR provides an attractive target for such selective kinase inhibition.

RESULTS

We generated an inhibitor-sensitized allele of the transforming receptor tyrosine kinase v-erbB. Transformation of immortalized rodent fibroblasts by sensitized versions of v-erbB (v-erbB-as1) was blocked by 1-napthyl PP1 (NaPP1), a cell-permeable ATP-competitive inhibitor. NaPP1 also reversed morphological transformation by v-erbB-as1. Signaling through MAP kinase and PI(3) kinase was initially blocked by inhibitor treatment and then recovered to levels comparable to those in nontransformed cells. Surprisingly, NaPP1-treated v-erbB-as1 cells failed to re-enter the cell cycle, showed decreased levels of D- and A-type cyclins, and showed increased levels of p27. To extend this result, we showed that NaPP1 treatment of v-Src-as1 cells also led to cell cycle arrest. Arrested cells could be rescued with a conditional allele of Raf or by transduction of a constitutive allele of cyclin D1.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that mammalian cells can become dependent on aberrant oncogenic signaling; this dependency renders them incapable of returning to a normal, proliferative phenotype.

The ErbB receptor family: a therapeutic target for cancer

This article reviews the current state of efforts targeting the ErbB family of tyrosine kinase receptors in cancer therapy. In particular, preliminary results will be discussed of studies of the first generation of therapeutics to enter clinical evaluation in malignant diseases. Results of recently conducted clinical studies with ZD1839 (Iressa), OSI-774 (Tarceva), Cetuximab (IMC-C225) and trastuzumab (Herceptin) and several other compounds are presented. Potential advantages and disadvantages of these different therapeutic modalities, as well as future challenges of evaluating ErbB-targeted agents in the clinic, are presented.

Interaction between tyrosine kinase Etk and a RUN domain- and FYVE domain-containing protein RUFY1. A possible role of ETK in regulation of vesicle trafficking

Etk/BMX tyrosine kinase is involved in regulation of various cellular processes including proliferation, differentiation, motility, and apoptosis. Through a yeast two-hybrid screening for the effectors of Etk, a new gene family designated as RUFY was identified. The RUFY gene family (RUFY1 and RUFY2) contains an N-terminal RUN domain and a C-terminal FYVE domain with two coiled-coil domains in-between. They appear to be homologues of a recently identified mouse Rabip4 (Cormant, M., Mari, M., Galmiche, A., Hofman, P., and Le Marchand-Brustel, Y. (2001) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 98, 1637-1642). RUFY proteins are localized predominantly to endosomes as evidenced by their co-localization with early endosome antigen marker (EEA1). Etk interacts with RUFY1 through its SH3 and SH2 domains. RUFY1 is tyrosine-phosphorylated and appears to be a substrate of Etk. The RUFY1 mutant lacking the phosphorylation sites failed to go to the endosomes. Furthermore, overexpression of Etk in COS-1 and B82L cells resulted in increased plasma membrane localization of the epidermal growth factor receptor and delayed its induced endocytosis in COS-1 cells. The effects of Etk were blocked by the FYVE domain of RUFY1. Interestingly, the FYVE domain of RUFY1 is targeted to the plasma membrane through an interaction between its proline-rich motif and the SH3 domain of Etk or possibly some other membrane-associated SH3 domain-containing protein(s), whereas the lipid binding activity of the FYVE domain is not required. Our data suggest that Etk may be involved in regulation of endocytosis through its interaction with an endosomal protein RUFY1.

A novel scoring function for predicting the conformations of tightly packed pairs of transmembrane alpha-helices

Pairs of helices in transmembrane (TM) proteins are often tightly packed. We present a scoring function and a computational methodology for predicting the tertiary fold of a pair of alpha-helices such that its chances of being tightly packed are maximized. Since the number of TM protein structures solved to date is small, it seems unlikely that a reliable scoring function derived statistically from the known set of TM protein structures will be available in the near future. We therefore constructed a scoring function based on the qualitative insights gained in the past two decades from the solved structures of TM and soluble proteins. In brief, we reward the formation of contacts between small amino acid residues such as Gly, Cys, and Ser, that are known to promote dimerization of helices, and penalize the burial of large amino acid residues such as Arg and Trp. As a case study, we show that our method predicts the native structure of the TM homodimer glycophorin A (GpA) to be, in essence, at the global score optimum. In addition, by correlating our results with empirical point mutations on this homodimer, we demonstrate that our method can be a helpful adjunct to mutation analysis. We present a data set of canonical alpha-helices from the solved structures of TM proteins and provide a set of programs for analyzing it (http://ashtoret.tau.ac.il/~sarel). From this data set we derived 11 helix pairs, and conducted searches around their native states as a further test of our method. Approximately 73% of our predictions showed a reasonable fit (RMS deviation <2A) with the native structures compared to the success rate of 8% expected by chance. The search method we employ is less effective for helix pairs that are connected via short loops (<20 amino acid residues), indicating that short loops may play an important role in determining the conformation of alpha-helices in TM proteins.

SH3 domain-mediated binding of the Drk protein to Dos is an important step in signaling of Drosophila receptor tyrosine kinases

Activation of the Sevenless (Sev) receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) in the developing Drosophila eye is required for the specification of the R7 photoreceptor cell fate. Daughter of Sevenless (Dos), a putative multi-site adaptor protein, is a substrate of the Sev kinase and is known to associate with the tyrosine phosphatase Corkscrew (Csw). Binding of Csw to Dos depends on the Csw Src homology 2 (SH2) domains and is an essential step for signaling by the Sev RTK. Dos, however, lacks a recognizable phosphotyrosine interaction domain and it was previously unclear how it is recruited to the Sev receptor. Here it is shown that the SH2/SH3 domain adaptor protein Drk can provide this link. Drk binds with its SH2 domain to the autophosphorylated Sev receptor while the C-terminal SH3 domain is able to associate with Dos. The Drk SH3 domain binding motifs on Dos were mapped to two sites which do not conform the known Drk SH3 domain binding motif (PxxPxR) but instead have the consensus PxxxRxxKP. Mutational analysis in vitro and in vivo provided evidence that both Drk binding sites fulfil an important function in the context of Sev and Drosophila epidermal growth factor receptor mediated signaling processes.

Lateral propagation of EGF signaling after local stimulation is dependent on receptor density

We analyzed lateral propagation of epidermal growth factor (EGF) signaling in single live COS cells following local stimulation, achieved by the use of laminar flows containing rhodamine-labeled EGF. The spatiotemporal pattern of EGF signaling was visualized by fluorescent indicators for Ras activation and tyrosine phosphorylation. Contrary to the findings in previous reports, both signals were localized to the stimulated regions in control COS cells expressing EGF receptor at the basal level. However, the signals spread over the entire cell when EGF receptors were overexpressed or when receptor/ligand endocytosis was blocked. We thus present evidence that ligand-independent propagation of EGF signaling occurs only when the receptor density on the plasma membrane is high, such as in carcinoma cells.

Insulin receptor substrate-1 and phosphoinositide-dependent kinase-1 are required for insulin-stimulated production of nitric oxide in endothelial cells

Vasodilator actions of insulin are mediated by signaling pathways involving phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) and Akt that lead to activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in endothelium. Signaling molecules immediately upstream and downstream from PI 3-kinase involved with production of NO in response to insulin have not been previously identified. In this study, we evaluated roles of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and phosphoinositide-dependent kinase 1 (PDK-1) in production of NO. The fluorescent dye 4,5-diamine fluorescein diacetate was used to directly measure NO in NIH-3T3(IR) cells transiently cotransfected with eNOS and various IRS-1 or PDK-1 constructs. In control cells, transfected with only eNOS, insulin stimulated a rapid dose-dependent increase in NO. Overexpression of wild-type IRS-1 increased the maximal insulin response 3-fold. Overexpression of IRS1-F6 (mutant that does not bind PI 3-kinase) or an antisense ribozyme against IRS-1 substantially inhibited insulin-stimulated production of NO. Likewise, overexpression of wild-type PDK-1 enhanced insulin-stimulated production of NO, whereas a kinase-inactive mutant PDK-1 inhibited this action of insulin. Qualitatively similar results were observed in vascular endothelial cells. Production of NO by a calcium-dependent mechanism in response to lysophosphatidic acid was unaffected by either wild-type or mutant IRS-1 and PDK-1. We conclude that IRS-1 and PDK-1 play necessary roles in insulin-signaling pathways leading to activation of eNOS. Furthermore, classical Ca2+-mediated pathways for activation of eNOS are separable from IRS-1- and PDK-1-dependent insulin-signaling pathways.

Lipid rafts in neuronal signaling and function

Lipid rafts are plasma membrane microdomains rich in cholesterol and sphingolipids, which provide a particularly ordered lipid environment. Rafts are enriched in glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins, as well as proteins involved in signal transduction and intracellular trafficking. In neurons, lipid rafts act as platforms for the signal transduction initiated by several classes of neurotrophic factors, including neurotrophins and glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF)-family ligands. Emerging evidence also indicates that such rafts are important for neuronal cell adhesion, axon guidance and synaptic transmission. Thus, lipid rafts are structurally unique components of plasma membranes, crucial for neural development and function.

Nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of Smads 2, 3, and 4 permits sensing of TGF-beta receptor activity

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta stimulation leads to phosphorylation and activation of Smad2 and Smad3, which form complexes with Smad4 that accumulate in the nucleus and regulate transcription of target genes. Here we demonstrate that, following TGF-beta stimulation of epithelial cells, receptors remain active for at least 3-4 hr, and continuous receptor activity is required to maintain active Smads in the nucleus and for TGF-beta-induced transcription. We show that continuous nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of the Smads during active TGF-beta signaling provides the mechanism whereby the intracellular transducers of the signal continuously monitor receptor activity. Our data therefore explain how, at all times, the concentration of active Smads in the nucleus is directly dictated by the levels of activated receptors in the cytoplasm.

All signaling is local?

The mechanism of signal transmission following ligand stimulation of receptor tyrosine kinases in living cells is poorly understood. Recent studies have visualized the spatio-temporal pattern of EGF signaling, indicating that receptor density is an important factor in the mechanism of lateral propagation of local EGF signaling.

Signal transduction and endocytosis: close encounters of many kinds

Binding of hormones, growth factors and other cell modulators to cell-surface receptors triggers a complex array of signal-transduction events. The activation of many receptors also accelerates their endocytosis. Endocytic transport is important in regulating signal transduction and in mediating the formation of specialized signalling complexes. Conversely, signal-transduction events modulate specific components of the endocytic machinery. Recent studies of protein tyrosine kinases and G-protein-coupled receptors have shed new light on the mechanisms and functional consequences of this bidirectional interplay between signalling and membrane-transport networks.

The UV (Ribotoxic) stress response of human keratinocytes involves the unexpected uncoupling of the Ras-extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling cascade from the activated epidermal growth factor receptor

In mammals, UVB radiation is of biological relevance primarily for the cells of the epidermis. We report here the existence of a UVB response that is specific for proliferating human epidermal keratinocytes. Unlike other cell types that also display a UVB response, keratinocytes respond to UVB irradiation with a transient but potent downregulation of the Ras-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling cascade. The downregulation of ERK precedes a profound decrease in the steady-state levels of cyclin D1, a mediator of the proliferative action of ERK. Keratinocytes exhibit high constitutive activity of the Ras-ERK signaling cascade even in culture medium lacking supplemental growth factors. The increased activity of Ras and phosphorylation of ERK in these cells are maintained by the autocrine production of secreted molecules that activate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Irradiation of keratinocytes increases the phosphorylation of EGFR on tyrosine residues Y845, Y992, Y1045, Y1068, Y1086, Y1148, and Y1173 above the basal levels and leads to the increased recruitment of the adaptor proteins Grb2 and ShcA and of a p55 form of the regulatory subunit of the phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase to the UVB-activated EGFR. Paradoxically, however, UVB causes, at the same time, the inactivation of Ras and a subsequent dephosphorylation of ERK. By contrast, the signaling pathway leading from the activated EGFR to the phosphorylation of PKB/Akt1 is potentiated by UVB. The UVB response of keratinocytes appeared to be a manifestation of the more general ribotoxic stress response inasmuch as the transduction of the UVB-generated inhibitory signal to Ras and ERK required the presence of active ribosomes at the time of irradiation.