Molecular cloning of two types of GAP complementary DNA from human placenta

Two species of human CRK cDNA encode proteins with distinct biological activities

Two distinct human CRK cDNAs, designated CRK-I and CRK-II, were isolated from human embryonic lung cells by polymerase chain reaction and by screening of a human placenta cDNA library, respectively. CRK-I differed from CRK-II in that it lacked a 170-nucleotide sequence, suggesting that CRK-I and CRK-II were the products of alternative splicing. The amino acid sequences deduced from these two cDNAs differed in the carboxyl termini and contained one SH2 and either one or two SH3 domains. RNAse protection analysis demonstrated both CRK-I and CRK-II mRNAs in various human cells. Three CRK proteins, of 42, 40, and 28 kDa, were identified in human embryonic lung cells by means of antibodies against the SH2 region and the SH3 region of the bacterially expressed CRK-I protein. Transient expression of CRK-I and CRK-II cDNAs in COS7 cells showed that the former encoded the 28-kDa protein and the latter encoded the 40- and 42-kDa proteins. All human cell lines so far examined expressed the 40-kDa protein; however, expression of the 28- and the 42-kDa proteins was variable. In a comparison of the biological activity of the two human CRK proteins, both proteins were stably expressed in rat 3Y1 cells. All cell lines expressing CRK-I protein showed altered morphology, proliferated in soft agar, and grew as massive tumors in nude mice. Although CRK-II-expressing cells showed a slight morphologic change, they did not make colonies in soft agar or grow in nude mice. These results demonstrate that the two species of human CRK cDNA encode proteins which differ in their biological activities.

Regional localization of three convertases, PC1 (Nec-1), PC2 (Nec-2), and furin (Fur), on mouse chromosomes

The genes for three convertases, PC1 (Nec-1), PC2 (Nec-2), and furin (Fur), have been regionally localized on chromosomes 13, 2, and 7, respectively, by interspecific backcross analysis. These results refine previous localizations by in situ hybridization as well as confirm and extend known regions of homology between mouse and human chromosomes.

SH3--an abundant protein domain in search of a function

Src-homology 3 is a small protein domain of about 60 amino acid residues. It is probably made of beta-sheets. SH3 is present in a large number of eukaryotic proteins which are involved in signal transduction, cell polarization and membrane-cytoskeleton interactions. Here we review its occurrence and discuss possible functions of this domain.

Primary structure, expression, and signal-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of a Drosophila homolog of extracellular signal-regulated kinase

The extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) comprise a class of protein-serine/threonine kinases that are activated in response to a wide variety of extracellular signals transduced via receptor tyrosine kinases. Activation of the ERKs requires both threonine and tyrosine phosphorylation suggestive of a key role in mediating intracellular events in response to extracellular cues. To critically assess the role of ERKs in intracellular signaling, a genetically tractable receptor tyrosine kinase system would be invaluable. In this paper we report the identification of a Drosophila homolog of ERK1 and -2, designated DmERK-A. DmERK-A is 80% identical to rat ERK1 and -2 and is rapidly phosphorylated on tyrosine in response to an extracellular signal activating a receptor tyrosine kinase. Biochemical and histological studies reveal its expression in the eye imaginal disc. These studies provide a first step in a genetic analysis of ERK function.

Role of protein kinase C in T-cell antigen receptor regulation of p21ras: evidence that two p21ras regulatory pathways coexist in T cells

T-lymphocyte activation via the antigen receptor complex (TCR) results in accumulation of p21ras in the active GTP-bound state. Stimulation of protein kinase C (PKC) can also activate p21ras, and it has been proposed that the TCR effect on p21ras occurs as a consequence of TCR regulation of PKC. To test the role of PKC in TCR regulation of p21ras, a permeabilized cell system was used to examine TCR regulation of p21ras under conditions in which TCR activation of PKC was blocked, first by using a PKC pseudosubstrate peptide inhibitor and second by using ionic conditions that prevent phosphatidyl inositol hydrolysis and hence diacylglycerol production and PKC stimulation. The data show that TCR-induced p21ras activation is not mediated exclusively by PKC. Thus, in the absence of PKC stimulation, the TCR was still able to induce accumulation of p21ras-GTP complexes, and this stimulation correlated with an inactivation of p21ras GTPase-activating proteins. The protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor herbimycin could prevent the non-PKC-mediated, TCR-induced stimulation of p21ras. These data indicate that two mechanisms for p21ras regulation coexist in T cells: one PKC mediated and one not. The TCR can apparently couple to p21ras via a non-PKC-controlled route that may involve tyrosine kinases.

Diversity in cellular signaling for nerve growth factor and insulin: variations on a common theme

Numerous similarities exist in the cellular signaling events observed for insulin and nerve growth factor. Because the two hormones share many functional properties, and exhibit similar effects on neurons, the possibility of common early signaling events has been explored. Many studies have focused on the important role of protein phosphorylation. Two distinct but related mechanisms are discussed that may mediate, in part, the ability of these two hormones to regulate the activities of protein kinases and phosphatases.

Characterization of hematopoietic intracellular protein tyrosine phosphatases: description of a phosphatase containing an SH2 domain and another enriched in proline-, glutamic acid-, serine-, and threonine-rich sequences

Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPases) are a family of enzymes important in cellular regulation. Characterization of two cDNAs encoding intracellular PTPases expressed primarily in hematopoietic tissues and cell lines has revealed proteins that are potential regulators of signal transduction. One of these, SHP (Src homology region 2 [SH2]-domain phosphatase), possesses two tandem SH2 domains at the amino terminus of the molecule. SH2 domains have previously been described in proteins implicated in signal transduction, and SHP may be one of a family of nonreceptor PTPases that can act as direct antagonists to the nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinases. The SH2 domains of SHP preferentially bind a 15,000-Mr protein expressed by LSTRA cells. LSTRA cells were shown to express SHP protein by immunoprecipitation, thus demonstrating a potential physiological interaction. The other PTPase, PEP (proline-, glutamic acid-, serine-, and threonine-rich [PEST]-domain phosphatase), is distinguished by virtue of a large carboxy-terminal domain of approximately 500 amino acids that is rich in PEST residues. PEST sequences are found in proteins that are rapidly degraded. Both proteins have been expressed by in vitro transcription and translation and in bacterial expression systems, and both have been demonstrated to have PTPase activity. These two additional members of the PTPase family accentuate the variety of PTPase structures and indicate the potential diversity of function for intracellular tyrosine phosphatases.

Mutational and kinetic analyses of the GTPase-activating protein (GAP)-p21 interaction: the C-terminal domain of GAP is not sufficient for full activity

The GTPase-activating protein (GAP) stimulates the GTPase reaction of p21 by 5 orders of magnitude such that the kcat of the reaction is increased to 19 s-1. Mutations of residues in loop L1 (Gly-12 and Gly-13), in loop L2 (Thr-35 and Asp-38), and in loop L4 (Gln-61 and Glu-63) influence the reaction in different ways, but all of these mutant p21 proteins still form complexes with GAP. The C-terminal domain of the human GAP gene product, GAP334, which comprises residues 714 to 1047, is 20 times less active than full-length GAP on a molar basis and has a fourfold lower affinity. This finding indicates that the N terminus of GAP containing the SH2 domains modifies the interaction between the catalytic domain and p21.

Molecular cloning of cDNAs encoding the GAP-associated protein p190: implications for a signaling pathway from ras to the nucleus

In mitogenically stimulated and tyrosine kinase-transformed cells, a substantial fraction of the ras GTPase-activating protein (GAP) forms a complex with a protein termed p190. We have cloned several cDNAs encoding the p190 protein. Analysis of the predicted protein sequence reveals three distinct domains with homology to previously described sequences. An N-terminal domain of p190 contains sequence motifs that are found in all of the known GTPases. At the C-terminus of the protein is a domain that contains sequences very similar to those found in the breakpoint cluster region gene product, n-chimerin, and rho GAP, all of which have been shown to possess intrinsic GAP activity on small GTPases. Finally, a 778 aa segment in the middle of p190 is nearly identical in sequence to a recently described transcriptional repressor. This raises the possibility that p190, acting via GAP, can transduce signals from p21ras to the nucleus, perhaps affecting expression of specific cellular genes.

Mutational and kinetic analyses of the GTPase-activating protein (GAP)-p21 interaction: the C-terminal domain of GAP is not sufficient for full activity

The GTPase-activating protein (GAP) stimulates the GTPase reaction of p21 by 5 orders of magnitude such that the kcat of the reaction is increased to 19 s-1. Mutations of residues in loop L1 (Gly-12 and Gly-13), in loop L2 (Thr-35 and Asp-38), and in loop L4 (Gln-61 and Glu-63) influence the reaction in different ways, but all of these mutant p21 proteins still form complexes with GAP. The C-terminal domain of the human GAP gene product, GAP334, which comprises residues 714 to 1047, is 20 times less active than full-length GAP on a molar basis and has a fourfold lower affinity. This finding indicates that the N terminus of GAP containing the SH2 domains modifies the interaction between the catalytic domain and p21.

Characterization of hematopoietic intracellular protein tyrosine phosphatases: description of a phosphatase containing an SH2 domain and another enriched in proline-, glutamic acid-, serine-, and threonine-rich sequences

Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPases) are a family of enzymes important in cellular regulation. Characterization of two cDNAs encoding intracellular PTPases expressed primarily in hematopoietic tissues and cell lines has revealed proteins that are potential regulators of signal transduction. One of these, SHP (Src homology region 2 [SH2]-domain phosphatase), possesses two tandem SH2 domains at the amino terminus of the molecule. SH2 domains have previously been described in proteins implicated in signal transduction, and SHP may be one of a family of nonreceptor PTPases that can act as direct antagonists to the nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinases. The SH2 domains of SHP preferentially bind a 15,000-Mr protein expressed by LSTRA cells. LSTRA cells were shown to express SHP protein by immunoprecipitation, thus demonstrating a potential physiological interaction. The other PTPase, PEP (proline-, glutamic acid-, serine-, and threonine-rich [PEST]-domain phosphatase), is distinguished by virtue of a large carboxy-terminal domain of approximately 500 amino acids that is rich in PEST residues. PEST sequences are found in proteins that are rapidly degraded. Both proteins have been expressed by in vitro transcription and translation and in bacterial expression systems, and both have been demonstrated to have PTPase activity. These two additional members of the PTPase family accentuate the variety of PTPase structures and indicate the potential diversity of function for intracellular tyrosine phosphatases.

X-ray crystal structures of transforming p21 ras mutants suggest a transition-state stabilization mechanism for GTP hydrolysis

RAS genes isolated from human tumors often have mutations at positions corresponding to amino acid 12 or 61 of the encoded protein (p21), while retroviral ras-encoded p21 contains substitutions at both positions 12 and 59. These mutant proteins are deficient in their GTP hydrolysis activity, and this loss of activity is linked to their transforming potential. The crystal structures of the mutant proteins are presented here as either GDP-bound or GTP-analogue-bound complexes. Based on these structures, a mechanism for the p21 GTPase reaction is proposed that is consistent with the observed structural and biochemical data. The central feature of this mechanism is a specific stabilization complex formed between the Gln-61 side-chain and the pentavalent gamma-phosphate of the GTP transition state. Amino acids other than glutamine at position 61 cannot stabilize the transition state, and amino acids larger than glycine at position 12 would interfere with the transition-state complex. Thr-59 disrupts the normal position of residue 61, thus preventing its participation in the transition-state complex.

Interaction of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-associated p85 with epidermal growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor receptors

One of the immediate cellular responses to stimulation by various growth factors is the activation of a phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase. We recently cloned the 85-kDa subunit of PI 3-kinase (p85) from a lambda gt11 expression library, using the tyrosine-phosphorylated carboxy terminus of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor as a probe (E. Y. Skolnik, B. Margolis, M. Mohammadi, E. Lowenstein, R. Fischer, A. Drepps, A. Ullrich, and J. Schlessinger, Cell 65:83-90, 1991). In this study, we have examined the association of p85 with EGF and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptors and the tyrosine phosphorylation of p85 in 3T3 (HER14) cells in response to EGF and PDGF treatment. Treatment of cells with EGF or PDGF markedly increased the amount of p85 associated with EGF and PDGF receptors. Binding assays with glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion proteins demonstrated that either Src homology region 2 (SH2) domain of p85 is sufficient for binding to EGF and PDGF receptors and that receptor tyrosine autophosphorylation is required for binding. Binding of a GST fusion protein expressing the N-terminal SH2 domain of p85 (GST-N-SH2) to EGF and PDGF receptors was half-maximally inhibited by 2 and 24 mM phosphotyrosine (P-Tyr), respectively, suggesting that the N-SH2 domain interacts more stably with PDGF receptors than with EGF receptors. The amount of receptor-p85 complex detected in HER14 cells treated with EGF or PDGF. Growth factor treatment also increased the amount of p85 found in anti-PDGF-treated HER14 cells, suggesting that the vast majority of p85 in the anti-P-Tyr fraction is receptor associated but not phosphorylated on tyrosine residues. Only upon transient overexpression of p85 and PDGF receptor did p85 become tyrosine phosphorylated. These are consistent with the hypothesis that p85 functions as an adaptor molecule that targets PI 3-kinase to activated growth factor receptors.

Multiple SH2-mediated interactions in v-src-transformed cells

The Src homology 2 (SH2) domain is a noncatalytic region which is conserved among a number of signaling and transforming proteins, including cytoplasmic protein-tyrosine kinases and Ras GTPase-activating protein (GAP). Genetic and biochemical data indicate that the SH2 domain of the p60v-src (v-Src) protein-tyrosine kinase is required for full v-src transforming activity and may direct the association of v-Src with specific tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins. To test the ability of the v-Src SH2 domain to mediate protein-protein interactions, v-Src polypeptides were expressed as fusion proteins in Escherichia coli. The bacterial v-Src SH2 domain bound a series of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins in a lysate of v-src-transformed Rat-2 cells, including prominent species of 130 and 62 kDa (p130 and p62). The p130 and p62 tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins that complexed v-Src SH2 in vitro also associated with v-Src in v-src-transformed Rat-2 cells; this in vivo binding was dependent on the v-Src SH2 domain. In addition to binding soluble p62 and p130, the SH2 domains of v-Src, GAP, and v-Crk directly recognized these phosphotyrosine-containing proteins which had been previously denatured and immobilized on a filter. In addition, the SH2 domains of GAP and v-Crk bound to the GAP-associated protein p190 immobilized on a nitrocellulose membrane. These results show that SH2 domains bind directly to tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins and that the Src SH2 domain can bind phosphorylated targets of the v-Src kinase domain.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Interaction of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-associated p85 with epidermal growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor receptors

One of the immediate cellular responses to stimulation by various growth factors is the activation of a phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase. We recently cloned the 85-kDa subunit of PI 3-kinase (p85) from a lambda gt11 expression library, using the tyrosine-phosphorylated carboxy terminus of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor as a probe (E. Y. Skolnik, B. Margolis, M. Mohammadi, E. Lowenstein, R. Fischer, A. Drepps, A. Ullrich, and J. Schlessinger, Cell 65:83-90, 1991). In this study, we have examined the association of p85 with EGF and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptors and the tyrosine phosphorylation of p85 in 3T3 (HER14) cells in response to EGF and PDGF treatment. Treatment of cells with EGF or PDGF markedly increased the amount of p85 associated with EGF and PDGF receptors. Binding assays with glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion proteins demonstrated that either Src homology region 2 (SH2) domain of p85 is sufficient for binding to EGF and PDGF receptors and that receptor tyrosine autophosphorylation is required for binding. Binding of a GST fusion protein expressing the N-terminal SH2 domain of p85 (GST-N-SH2) to EGF and PDGF receptors was half-maximally inhibited by 2 and 24 mM phosphotyrosine (P-Tyr), respectively, suggesting that the N-SH2 domain interacts more stably with PDGF receptors than with EGF receptors. The amount of receptor-p85 complex detected in HER14 cells treated with EGF or PDGF. Growth factor treatment also increased the amount of p85 found in anti-PDGF-treated HER14 cells, suggesting that the vast majority of p85 in the anti-P-Tyr fraction is receptor associated but not phosphorylated on tyrosine residues. Only upon transient overexpression of p85 and PDGF receptor did p85 become tyrosine phosphorylated. These are consistent with the hypothesis that p85 functions as an adaptor molecule that targets PI 3-kinase to activated growth factor receptors.

The CCS1 gene from Saccharomyces cerevisiae which is involved in mitochondrial functions is identified as IRA2 an attenuator of RAS1 and RAS2 gene products

The ccs1-1 mutation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which has been previously described, is associated with an increase in cytochrome content, in respiration, and in ATP synthesis. In addition, this mutation leads to the same phenotype as cells de-regulated in the cAMP pathway. From a yeast genomic library, we have isolated a DNA fragment in a recombinant plasmid pCD1 which complements the ccs1-1 mutation. Homologous integration of this DNA in the genome occurs at the CCS1 locus. An 11 kb of the DNA insert is necessary for complementation. Sequencing part of the fragment identifies CCS1 as the IRA2 gene. The IRA2 gene is known to encode an attenuator of RAS gene product activity which stimulates the GTPase activity of the RAS proteins. This result underlines the involvement of cAMP-dependent phosphorylation in mitochondrial function. We present the sequence of 1 kb DNA upstream of the putative ATG of the IRA2/CCS1 gene product which is devoid of an ORF and could contain several regulatory sites.

Epinephrine suppresses rap1B.GAP-activated GTPase activity in human platelets

Lysate from quiescent platelets promotes rapid hydrolysis of [gamma-32P]GTP bound to rap1B. Various platelet agonists, including platelet-activating factor, phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate, alpha-thrombin, epinephrine, ADP, and iloprost, that affect platelet metabolism by different signal transduction pathways were used to stimulate intact platelets and study their effects on rap1B.GAP-activated GTPase activity (GAP, GTPase-activating protein). Only epinephrine was found to dramatically decrease not only the rate but also the amount of hydrolysis of rap1B-bound GTP activated by rap1B.GAP. This effect was dose dependent and occurred rapidly. The suppression of GTPase activity was specific for rap1B.GAP in that ras.GAP- and rap2B.GAP-activated GTPase activity were not affected by epinephrine stimulation. This effect appears to be mediated by the alpha 2-adrenergic receptor, as evidenced by a similar suppression of GTPase activity by stimulating platelets with the synthetic alpha 2-adrenergic receptor agonist UK14304 (bromoxidine). Furthermore, the selective alpha 2-adrenergic receptor antagonist yohimbine blocked the suppression of GTPase activity expressed in epinephrine-stimulated cell lysates. No apparent changes in the patterns of protein expression or tyrosine phosphorylation were observed. Although the migration characteristics upon anion-exchange chromatography of rap1B.GAP and ras.GAP activities were unaffected by epinephrine stimulation, the specific activity of rap1B.GAP was noticeably decreased with 250 and 500 microM epinephrine. These results suggest a possible role for rap1B and rap1B.GAP in epinephrine-stimulated signal transduction.

DNA probe for Aeromonas salmonicida

A DNA fragment that is specific to Aeromonas salmonicida has been isolated from a genomic DNA library by differential hybridization. The specificity of this fragment as a DNA probe for A. salmonicida was shown by hybridization against reference strains and clinical isolates of A. salmonicida, related aeromonads, and species from several other bacterial genera. The sensitivity of detection by a polymerase chain reaction test, based on this fragment, was approximately two A. salmonicida cells.

Regulatory mechanisms for ras proteins

The proteins encoded by the ras proto-oncogenes play critical roles in normal cellular growth, differentiation and development in addition to their potential for malignant transformation. Several proteins that are involved in the control of the activity of p21ras have now been characterised. p120GAP stimulates the GTPase activity of p21ras and hence acts as a negative regulator of ras proteins. It may be controlled by tyrosine phosphorylation or association with tyrosine phosphorylated proteins. The neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF 1) gene also encodes a potential GTPase activating protein which is likely to be subject to a different control mechanism. Guanosine nucleotide exchange factors for p21ras have now been identified: these may be positive regulators of ras protein function. It appears that p21ras is subject to rapid regulation by several distinct mechanisms which are likely to vary in different cell types; the ras proteins are thereby able to act as very sensitive cellular monitors of the extracellular environment.

A mutation in the catalytic domain of pp60v-src is responsible for the host- and temperature-dependent phenotype of the Rous sarcoma virus mutant tsLA33-1

We have analyzed a host- and temperature-dependent mutant of Rous sarcoma virus in order to learn more about the nature of mutations which lead to a host range phenotype. We have cloned and sequenced the v-src genes from this mutant, tsLA33-1, and from its presumed parent, tsLA33. Both the tsLA33 and the tsLA33-1 pp60v-src proteins contain multiple mutations. The tsLA33 v-src gene product has amino acid alterations at four positions. In the tsLA33-1 v-src gene product, two of these four mutations have reverted to wild type. We have constructed chimeras between the two mutant v-src gene products and between each mutant and the Prague A v-src gene product. To assess the contribution of each amino acid change to the transformation phenotypes of tsLA33 and tsLA33-1, we expressed the hybrid proteins in both chicken embryo fibroblasts and Rat-3 fibroblasts. Additionally, we have measured the protein tyrosine kinase activity of chimeras constructed between the tsLA33 and tsLA33-1 pp60v-src proteins. Our results indicate that mutations in the catalytic domain of each protein are the principal determinants of the transforming ability and protein tyrosine kinase activity of the tsLA33 and tsLA33-1 pp60v-src proteins.

Interleukin (IL)-2 activation of p21ras in murine myeloid cells transfected with human IL-2 receptor beta chain

The T cell growth factor interleukin-2 (IL-2) induces p21ras activation in T lymphocytes. To determine whether the IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) can regulate p21ras when expressed in a non-T cell environment we have examined the ability of IL-2 to activate p21ras in 32D murine myeloid progenitor cells transduced with human IL-2R beta chains. These cells are denoted beta 53 cells. 32D cells normally proliferate in response to IL-3 but the expression of the IL-2R beta chain confers IL-2 responsiveness to the cells. Our data show that IL-3 is able to activate p21ras in the parental 32D cells and both IL-2 and IL-3 can stimulate p21ras in the IL-2R-expressing beta 53 clone of 32D. In T lymphocytes, activation of protein kinase C (PKC) with phorbol esters is sufficient to stimulate p21ras. However, in 32D and beta 53 cells activation of PKC with phorbol esters does not result in p21ras activation even though these cells express functional PKC. It appears, therefore, that a PKC-mediated pathway for p21ras regulation exists in T lymphocytes but not in 32D cells. The IL-2R can couple to p21ras independently of the concomitant presence of the PKC pathway for p21ras regulation. These data imply that multiple intracellular mechanisms may exist to regulate p21ras and that cells of different lineages may differ with regard to p21ras regulation.

Multiple SH2-mediated interactions in v-src-transformed cells

The Src homology 2 (SH2) domain is a noncatalytic region which is conserved among a number of signaling and transforming proteins, including cytoplasmic protein-tyrosine kinases and Ras GTPase-activating protein (GAP). Genetic and biochemical data indicate that the SH2 domain of the p60v-src (v-Src) protein-tyrosine kinase is required for full v-src transforming activity and may direct the association of v-Src with specific tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins. To test the ability of the v-Src SH2 domain to mediate protein-protein interactions, v-Src polypeptides were expressed as fusion proteins in Escherichia coli. The bacterial v-Src SH2 domain bound a series of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins in a lysate of v-src-transformed Rat-2 cells, including prominent species of 130 and 62 kDa (p130 and p62). The p130 and p62 tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins that complexed v-Src SH2 in vitro also associated with v-Src in v-src-transformed Rat-2 cells; this in vivo binding was dependent on the v-Src SH2 domain. In addition to binding soluble p62 and p130, the SH2 domains of v-Src, GAP, and v-Crk directly recognized these phosphotyrosine-containing proteins which had been previously denatured and immobilized on a filter. In addition, the SH2 domains of GAP and v-Crk bound to the GAP-associated protein p190 immobilized on a nitrocellulose membrane. These results show that SH2 domains bind directly to tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins and that the Src SH2 domain can bind phosphorylated targets of the v-Src kinase domain.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Point mutations in the abl SH2 domain coordinately impair phosphotyrosine binding in vitro and transforming activity in vivo

We have constructed a series of point mutations in the highly conserved FLVRES motif of the src homology 2 (SH2) domain of the abl tyrosine kinase. Mutant SH2 domains were expressed in bacteria, and their ability to bind to tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins was examined in vitro. Three mutants were greatly reduced in their ability to bind both phosphotyrosine itself and tyrosine-phosphorylated cellular proteins. All of the mutants that retained activity bound to the same set of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins as did the wild type, suggesting that binding specificity was unaffected. These results implicate the FLVRES motif in direct binding to phosphotyrosine. When the mutant SH2 domains were inserted into an activated abl kinase and expressed in murine fibroblasts, decreased in vitro phosphotyrosine binding correlated with decreased transforming ability. This finding implies that SH2-phosphotyrosine interactions are involved in transmission of positive growth signals by the nonreceptor tyrosine kinases, most likely via the assembly of multiprotein complexes with other tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins.

Point mutations in the abl SH2 domain coordinately impair phosphotyrosine binding in vitro and transforming activity in vivo

We have constructed a series of point mutations in the highly conserved FLVRES motif of the src homology 2 (SH2) domain of the abl tyrosine kinase. Mutant SH2 domains were expressed in bacteria, and their ability to bind to tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins was examined in vitro. Three mutants were greatly reduced in their ability to bind both phosphotyrosine itself and tyrosine-phosphorylated cellular proteins. All of the mutants that retained activity bound to the same set of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins as did the wild type, suggesting that binding specificity was unaffected. These results implicate the FLVRES motif in direct binding to phosphotyrosine. When the mutant SH2 domains were inserted into an activated abl kinase and expressed in murine fibroblasts, decreased in vitro phosphotyrosine binding correlated with decreased transforming ability. This finding implies that SH2-phosphotyrosine interactions are involved in transmission of positive growth signals by the nonreceptor tyrosine kinases, most likely via the assembly of multiprotein complexes with other tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins.

Protein tyrosine phosphatase containing SH2 domains: characterization, preferential expression in hematopoietic cells, and localization to human chromosome 12p12-p13

Protein tyrosine phosphorylation has been implicated in the growth and functional responses of hematopoietic cells. Recently, approaches have been developed to characterize the protein tyrosine phosphatases that may contribute to regulation of protein tyrosine phosphorylation. One novel protein tyrosine phosphatase was expressed predominantly in hematopoietic cells. Hematopoietic cell phosphatase encodes a 68-kDa protein that contains a single phosphatase conserved domain. Unlike other known protein tyrosine phosphatases, hematopoietic cell phosphatase contains two src homology 2 domains. We also cloned the human homolog, which has 95% amino acid sequence identity. Both the murine and human gene products have tyrosine-specific phosphatase activity, and both are expressed predominantly in hematopoietic cells. Importantly, the human gene maps to chromosome 12 region p12-p13. This region is associated with rearrangements in approximately 10% of cases of acute lymphocytic leukemia in children.

Regulation of p21ras by GTPase activating proteins and guanine nucleotide exchange proteins

Ras proteins play a critical role in controlling normal cellular growth and, when activated by mutation, in causing malignant transformation. Regulation of p21ras is achieved by GTPase activating proteins, which control the rate of hydrolysis of GTP to GDP, and also by GDP dissociation stimulators, which catalyze the exchange of guanine nucleotides. Several such proteins have now been identified and their control mechanisms characterized.

Protein tyrosine phosphatase containing SH2 domains: characterization, preferential expression in hematopoietic cells, and localization to human chromosome 12p12-p13

Protein tyrosine phosphorylation has been implicated in the growth and functional responses of hematopoietic cells. Recently, approaches have been developed to characterize the protein tyrosine phosphatases that may contribute to regulation of protein tyrosine phosphorylation. One novel protein tyrosine phosphatase was expressed predominantly in hematopoietic cells. Hematopoietic cell phosphatase encodes a 68-kDa protein that contains a single phosphatase conserved domain. Unlike other known protein tyrosine phosphatases, hematopoietic cell phosphatase contains two src homology 2 domains. We also cloned the human homolog, which has 95% amino acid sequence identity. Both the murine and human gene products have tyrosine-specific phosphatase activity, and both are expressed predominantly in hematopoietic cells. Importantly, the human gene maps to chromosome 12 region p12-p13. This region is associated with rearrangements in approximately 10% of cases of acute lymphocytic leukemia in children.

Biological and biochemical activity of v-Crk chimeras containing the SH2/SH3 regions of phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C-gamma and Src

The chicken CT10 virus oncogene product, P47gag-crk, contains SH2/SH3 domains that have been identified as conserved domains among proteins involved in signal transduction. We studied the functional similarity of the SH2/SH3 domains by replacing those of v-Crk with those of phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C-gamma, v-Src, or c-Src. The transforming activity of v-Crk was partially retained in a mutant with a v-Src SH3 domain but not in the other mutants with heterologous SH2/SH3 domains. Mutant viruses with Crk-SH2/SH2' domains induced tyrosine phosphorylation of cellular proteins, but mutants with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C-gamma or Src SH2/SH2' domains did not. However, the mutant proteins with heterologous SH2/SH2' regions were able to weakly associate with some phosphotyrosine-containing proteins in vitro. These results indicate that in the context of the P47gag-crk structure, the requirement of Crk-SH2/SH3 is more stringent for its activity to induce cell transformation than to cause phosphorylation of cellular proteins. The substitution with heterologous sequences least perturbs the capacity to bind phosphotyrosine-containing proteins. In each case, the SH3 domain is more flexible to substitution than is the SH2 domain.

GAP domains responsible for ras p21-dependent inhibition of muscarinic atrial K+ channel currents

The interaction between the low molecular weight G protein ras p21 and a guanosine triphosphatase activating protein (GAP) uncouples a heterotrimeric G protein (Gk) from muscarinic receptors. Through the use of isolated atrial cell membranes and genetically engineered GAP deletion mutants, the src homology regions (SH2-SH3) at the amino terminus of GAP have been identified as the domains responsible for this effect. Deletion of the domain required to stimulate the guanosine triphosphatase activity of ras p21 relieves the requirement for ras p21 in this system. A model is presented that suggests that ras p21 induces a conformational change in GAP, which allows the SH2-SH3 regions of GAP to function.

The bovine papillomavirus E5 oncogene can cooperate with ras: identification of p21 amino acids critical for transformation by c-rasH but not v-rasH

We have previously used a series of insertion-deletion mutants of the mutationally activated v-rasH gene to identify several regions of the encoded protein that are dispensable for cellular transformation (B. M. Willumsen, A. G. Papageorge, H.-F. Kung, E. Bekesi, T. Robins, M. Johnsen, W. C. Vass, and D. R. Lowy, Mol. Cell. Biol. 6:2646-2654, 1986). To determine if some of these amino acids are more important for the biological activity of c-rasH, we have now tested many of the same insertion-deletion mutants in the c-rasH form for their ability to transform NIH 3T3 cells. Since the transforming activity of c-rasH is low, we have used cotransfection with the bovine papillomavirus (BPV) genome to develop a more sensitive transformation assay for c-rasH mutants. The increased sensitivity of the assay, which is seen both in focal transformation and in anchorage-independent growth, is mediated by cooperation between the BPV E5 gene and ras. E5-dependent cooperation was seen for v-rasH as well as for c-rasH, which suggests that the major effect of E5 was to increase the susceptibility of the cell to transformation to a given level of ras activity. The cooperation assay was used to test the potential importance, in c-rasH, of codons 93 to 108, 123 to 130, and 166 to 183, which were nonessential for v-rasH transformation. Relative to the respective transforming activity of wild-type c-rasH and v-rasH, mutants with lesions in codons 102 and 103 were significantly less active in their c-rasH forms than in their v-rasH forms. We conclude that a region including amino acids 102 and 103 encodes a function that is more critical to c-rasH than to v-rasH. Guanine nucleotide exchange is one function that is compatible with such a phenotype.

The bovine papillomavirus E5 oncogene can cooperate with ras: identification of p21 amino acids critical for transformation by c-rasH but not v-rasH

We have previously used a series of insertion-deletion mutants of the mutationally activated v-rasH gene to identify several regions of the encoded protein that are dispensable for cellular transformation (B. M. Willumsen, A. G. Papageorge, H.-F. Kung, E. Bekesi, T. Robins, M. Johnsen, W. C. Vass, and D. R. Lowy, Mol. Cell. Biol. 6:2646-2654, 1986). To determine if some of these amino acids are more important for the biological activity of c-rasH, we have now tested many of the same insertion-deletion mutants in the c-rasH form for their ability to transform NIH 3T3 cells. Since the transforming activity of c-rasH is low, we have used cotransfection with the bovine papillomavirus (BPV) genome to develop a more sensitive transformation assay for c-rasH mutants. The increased sensitivity of the assay, which is seen both in focal transformation and in anchorage-independent growth, is mediated by cooperation between the BPV E5 gene and ras. E5-dependent cooperation was seen for v-rasH as well as for c-rasH, which suggests that the major effect of E5 was to increase the susceptibility of the cell to transformation to a given level of ras activity. The cooperation assay was used to test the potential importance, in c-rasH, of codons 93 to 108, 123 to 130, and 166 to 183, which were nonessential for v-rasH transformation. Relative to the respective transforming activity of wild-type c-rasH and v-rasH, mutants with lesions in codons 102 and 103 were significantly less active in their c-rasH forms than in their v-rasH forms. We conclude that a region including amino acids 102 and 103 encodes a function that is more critical to c-rasH than to v-rasH. Guanine nucleotide exchange is one function that is compatible with such a phenotype.

cDNA cloning of the type 1 neurofibromatosis gene: complete sequence of the NF1 gene product

Von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis, or type 1 neurofibromatosis (NF1), is a common autosomal dominant disorder characterized by abnormalities in multiple tissues derived from the embryonic neural crest. Portions of the gene have been recently identified by positional cloning, and sequence analysis has shown homology to the GTPase activating protein (GAP) family. In this report we present the results of an extensive cDNA walk resulting in the cloning of the complete coding region of the NF1 transcript. Analysis of the sequences reveals an open reading frame of 2818 amino acids, although alternatively spliced products may code for different protein isoforms. The gene extends for approximately 300 kb on chromosome 17, with its promoter in a CpG-rich island.

Tumor suppressor genes

For the past decade, cellular oncogenes have attracted the attention of biologists intent on understanding the molecular origins of cancer. As the present decade unfolds, oncogenes are yielding their place at center stage to a second group of actors, the tumor suppressor genes, which promise to teach us equally important lessons about the molecular mechanisms of cancer pathogenesis.

Sequence and developmental expression of a mRNA encoding a putative protein of rat sperm outer dense fibers

We have isolated a cDNA from rat testis homologous to the Drosophila melanogaster gene mst(3)gl-9 by screening a rat testis cDNA library with mst(3)gl-9 and by direct PCR amplification of upstream sequences out of the cDNA library. Homologous genes are also expressed in testes of different mammalian species. In rat testis, two different transcripts are found. Evidences are presented which suggest that these two transcripts are alternative splicing products. As proved by Northern blot analysis of testis RNA prepared from rats of different ages and by in situ hybridization to rat testis tissue sections, the mRNAs are first transcribed in early spermatids. The longest open reading frame of the cDNA encodes a polypeptide of 244 amino acids which contains 16.4% cysteine, 9.9% proline, and 5.7% glycine and closely resembles the sizes and amino acid compositions of two major polypeptides isolated from outer dense fibers of rat spermatozoa. The COOH-terminal end consists mostly of the tripeptide motif Cys-Gly-Pro, the main motif in D. melanogaster mst(3)gl-9. It is suggested that the isolated rat cDNA encodes a polypeptide which is a protein component of the outer dense fibers of spermatozoa.

Role of GTPase activating protein in mitogenic signalling through phosphatidylcholine-hydrolysing phospholipase C

Recent evidence has accumulated showing that activation of PLC-catalysed hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine (PC-PLC) is a critical step in mitogenic signal transduction both in fibroblasts and in oocytes from Xenopus laevis. The products of ras genes activate PC-PLC, bind guanine nucleotides, have intrinsic GTPase activity, and are regulated by a GTPase-activating protein (GAP). It has been suggested that, in addition to its regulatory properties, GAP may also be necessary for ras function as a downstream effector molecule. In this study, evidence is presented that strongly suggests that the functional interaction between ras p21 and GAP is sufficient and necessary for activation of maturation promoting factor (MPF) H1-kinase activity in oocytes, and that PC hydrolysis is critically involved in this mechanism. Therefore, we identify GAP as a further step required for signalling through PC-PLC, and necessary for the control of oocyte maturation in response to ras p21/insulin but not to progesterone.

The biochemistry of ras p21

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Identification and characterization of a novel cytoskeleton-associated pp60src substrate

Transformation of cells by the src oncogene results in elevated tyrosine phosphorylation of two related proteins, p80 and p85 (p80/85). Immunostaining with specific monoclonal antibodies revealed a striking change of subcellular localization of p80/85 in src-transformed cells. p80/85 colocalizes with F-actin in peripheral extensions of normal cells and rosettes (podosomes) of src-transformed cells. Sequence analysis of cDNA clones encoding p80/85 revealed an amino-terminal domain composed of six copies of a direct tandem repeat, each repeat containing 37 amino acids, a carboxyl-terminal SH3 domain, and an interdomain region composed of a highly charged acidic region and a region rich in proline, serine, and threonine. The multidomain structure of p80/85 and its colocalization with F-actin in normal and src-transformed cells suggest that these proteins may associate with components of the cytoskeleton and contribute to organization of cell structure.

Identification and partial purification of GTPase-activating proteins from yeast and mammalian cells that preferentially act on Ypt1/Rab1 proteins

Two GTPase-activating proteins of apparent molecular mass of 100 kDa and 30 kDa have been partially purified from porcine liver cytosol using mammalian Ypt1/Rab1 protein as substrate. Both proteins act most efficiently on Ypt1/Rab1p, but are inactive with H-Ras p21. From the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a cytosolic 40 kDa yptGAP was partially purified. It accelerates the intrinsic GTPase activity of wild-type Ypt1p but not of H-Ras p21 or a mutant ypt1p with an amino acid substitution of the effector domain which renders the protein functionally inactive in yeast cells.