Inactivation of nuclear inhibitory polypeptides of protein phosphatase-1 (NIPP-1) by protein kinase A

PP1 regulatory subunit NIPP1 regulates transcription of E2F1 target genes following DNA damage

DNA damage induces transcriptional repression of E2F1 target genes and a reduction in histone H3‐Thr¹¹ phosphorylation (H3‐pThr¹¹) at E2F1 target gene promoters. Dephosphorylation of H3‐pThr11 is partly mediated by Chk1 kinase and protein phosphatase 1γ (PP1γ) phosphatase. Here, we isolated NIPP1 as a regulator of PP1γ‐mediated H3‐pThr¹¹ by surveying nearly 200 PP1 interactor proteins. We found that NIPP1 inhibits PP1γ‐mediated dephosphorylation of H3‐pThr¹¹ both in vivo and in vitro. By generating NIPP1‐depleted cells, we showed that NIPP1 is required for cell proliferation and the expression of E2F1 target genes. Upon DNA damage, activated protein kinase A (PKA) phosphorylated the NIPP1‐Ser¹⁹⁹ residue, adjacent to the PP1 binding motif (RVxF), and triggered the dissociation of NIPP1 from PP1γ, leading to the activation of PP1γ. Furthermore, the inhibition of PKA activity led to the activation of E2F target genes. Statistical analysis confirmed that the expression of NIPP1 was positively correlated with E2F target genes. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that the PP1 regulatory subunit NIPP1 modulates E2F1 target genes by linking PKA and PP1γ during DNA damage.

Acidic environment activates inflammatory programs in fibroblasts via a cAMP-MAPK pathway

The tissue micromilieu in disorders (inflammation, ischemia, tumor) often shows pronounced metabolic acidosis that may alter signaling and transcriptional activity in resident cells which can be of special importance for omnipresent fibroblasts. In the present study we investigated the impact of metabolic acidosis on rat fibroblasts with special emphasis on their role in inflammation by regulation of TNF-α, MCP-1, COX-2 and iNOS expression and the signaling pathways involved. Extracellular acidosis led to an enhanced expression of TNF-α, COX-2 and iNOS in parallel to an activation of p38 and ERK1/2 kinases that was not observed by sole intracellular acidosis. Accordingly, the protein amounts of TNF-α and COX-2 as well as the production of nitrate and nitrite were elevated. Acidosis-induced expression of COX-2 and iNOS depended on p38 kinase, but not on ERK1/2. In contrast acidosis-induced TNF-α expression was independent of both kinases. Although GPR4, GPR68 and GPR132 are expressed in fibroblasts, the involvement of these potential candidate pH sensors could be ruled out since no acidosis-induced elevation in intracellular cAMP or free calcium content was observed. Furthermore our data show that MAPK activation by an acidic micromilieu depends on Ser/Thr phosphatase activity, but not on the production of reactive oxygen species and is sensitive to cAMP antagonism by Rp-cAMPS. In conclusion, our results show that an acidic microenvironment induces a differential transcriptional program of pathological relevant genes in fibroblasts via the cAMP-phosphatase-MAPK pathway and thereby generates a parainflammatory situation that can result in tissue remodeling.

Activation of the receptor for advanced glycation end products induces nuclear inhibitor of protein phosphatase-1 suppression

The activation of the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is involved in the development of diabetic nephropathy. Analysis of protein phosphatase-1 indicated that advanced glycation end products did not affect its expression, but increased its phosphatase activity. Using differential display analysis we previously demonstrated that stimulation of RAGE in podocytes modulates the expression of numerous genes, among others nuclear inhibitor of protein phosphatase-1 (NIPP1). Here we found that silencing of NIPP1 induced podocyte hypertrophy, cell cycle arrest, and significantly increased protein phosphatase-1 activity. NIPP1 downregulation was associated with increased p27(Kip1) protein expression. Reporter assays revealed a transcriptional activation of nuclear factor-κB in podocytes after suppression of NIPP1. The protein level of NIPP1 was also significantly reduced in podocytes of diabetic mice. Blocking the RAGE in vivo by a soluble analog elevated the NIPP1 protein in podocytes of diabetic mice. Thus, activation of the RAGE by advanced glycation end products or other ligands suppresses NIPP1 expression in diabetic nephropathy, contributes to podocyte hypertrophy, and glomerular inflammation.

Estrogen signaling through the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor regulates granulocyte activation in fish

Neutrophils are major participants in innate host responses. It is well known that estrogens have an immune-modulatory role, and some evidence exists that neutrophil physiology can be altered by these molecules. Traditionally, estrogens act via classical nuclear estrogen receptors, but the identification of a G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), a membrane estrogen receptor that binds estradiol and other estrogens, has opened up the possibility of exploring additional estrogen-mediated effects. However, information on the importance of GPER for immunity, especially, in neutrophils is scant. In this study, we report that gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.) acidophilic granulocytes, which are the functional equivalent of mammalian neutrophils, express GPER at both mRNA and protein levels. By using a GPER selective agonist, G1, it was found that GPER activation in vitro slightly reduced the respiratory burst of acidophilic granulocytes and drastically altered the expression profile of several genes encoding major pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators. In addition, GPER signaling in vivo modulated adaptive immunity. Finally, a cAMP analog mimicked the effects of G1 in the induction of the gene coding for PG-endoperoxide synthase 2 and in the induction of CREB phosphorylation, whereas pharmacological inhibition of protein kinase A superinduced PG-endoperoxide synthase 2. Taken together, our results demonstrate for the first time, to our knowledge, that estrogens are able to modulate vertebrate granulocyte functions through a GPER/cAMP/protein kinase A/CREB signaling pathway and could establish therapeutic targets for several immune disorders in which estrogens play a prominent role.

Endogenous inhibitor proteins that connect Ser/Thr kinases and phosphatases in cell signaling

Protein phosphatase activity acts as a primary determinant of the extent and duration of phosphorylation of cellular proteins in response to physiological stimuli. Ser/Thr protein phosphatase-1 (PP1) belongs to the PPP superfamily, and is associated with regulatory subunits that confer substrate specificity, allosteric regulation, and subcellular compartmentalization. In addition, all eukaryotic cells contain multiple heat-stable proteins that originally were thought to inhibit phosphatase catalytic subunits released from the regulatory subunits, as a fail-safe mechanism. However, discovery of C-kinase-activated PP1 inhibitor, Mr of 17 kDa (CPI-17) required fresh thinking about the endogenous inhibitors as specific regulators of particular phosphatase complexes, acting in addition to, not instead of, regulatory subunits. The cellular actions of the endogenous inhibitors are controlled by phosphorylation, connecting them to kinase pathways. More recent progress has unveiled additional functions of PP1 inhibitor-2 (I-2), including regulation of protein kinases. Transcriptional mechanisms govern the expression levels of CPI-17 in response to stimuli. If true for other inhibitor proteins, they have the potential of being diagnostic markers for pathological conditions. We discuss specific examples of PP1 inhibitor proteins regulating particular cellular functions and the rationale for incorporating phosphatase inhibitor proteins in development of new therapeutic strategies.

Nuclear inhibitor of protein phosphatase-1 (NIPP1) directs protein phosphatase-1 (PP1) to dephosphorylate the U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (snRNP) component, spliceosome-associated protein 155 (Sap155)

Pre-mRNA splicing entails reversible phosphorylation of spliceosomal proteins. Recent work has revealed essential roles for Ser/Thr phosphatases, such as protein phosphatase-1 (PP1), in splicing, but how these phosphatases are regulated is largely unknown. We show that nuclear inhibitor of PP1 (NIPP1), a major PP1 interactor in the vertebrate nucleus, recruits PP1 to Sap155 (spliceosome-associated protein 155), an essential component of U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles, and promotes Sap155 dephosphorylation. C-terminally truncated NIPP1 (NIPP1-DeltaC) formed a hyper-active holoenzyme with PP1, rendering PP1 minimally phosphorylated on an inhibitory site. Forced expression of NIPP1-WT and -DeltaC resulted in slight and severe decreases in Sap155 hyperphosphorylation, respectively, and the latter was accompanied with inhibition of splicing. PP1 overexpression produced similar effects, whereas small interfering RNA-mediated NIPP1 knockdown enhanced Sap155 hyperphosphorylation upon okadaic acid treatment. NIPP1 did not inhibit but rather stimulated Sap155 dephosphorylation by PP1 in vitro through facilitating Sap155/PP1 interaction. Further analysis revealed that NIPP1 specifically recognizes hyperphosphorylated Sap155 thorough its Forkhead-associated domain and dissociates from Sap155 after dephosphorylation by associated PP1. Thus NIPP1 works as a molecular sensor for PP1 to recognize phosphorylated Sap155.

Rapid actions of androgens

The biological activity of androgens is thought to occur predominantly through binding to intracellular androgen-receptors, a member of the nuclear receptor family, that interact with specific nucleotide sequences to alter gene expression. This genomic-androgen effect typically takes at least more than half an hour. In contrast, the rapid or non-genomic actions of androgens are manifested within in seconds to few minutes. This rapid effect of androgens are manifold, ranging from activation of G-protein coupled membrane androgen-receptors or sex hormone-binding globulin receptors, stimulation of different protein kinases, to direct modulation of voltage- and ligand gated ion-channels and transporters. The physiological relevance of these non-genomic androgen actions has not yet been determined in detail. However, it may contribute to modulate several second messenger systems or transcription factors, which suggests a cross-talk between the fast non-genomic and the slow genomic pathway of androgens. This review will focus on the rapid effects of androgens on cell surface and cytoplasmic level.

Adrenomedullin stimulates nitric oxide production from primary rat hypothalamic neurons: roles of calcium and phosphatases

Adrenomedullin (ADM) in the brain plays important roles in the maintenance of homeostasis. Although in vivo evidence has suggested that nitric oxide (NO) mediates ADM's effects in the brain, mechanisms for ADM stimulation of NO production in neurons have not been identified. In the present study, primary hypothalamic neurons were used to characterize ADM-induced NO production and to study the underlying mechanisms. Using Calcium Orange/4-amino-5-methylamino-2',7'-difluorofluorescein fluorescence live cell imaging, we found that ADM (1 or 10 nM, 5 min) significantly elevated [Ca(2+)](i) and NO production in a concentration-dependent manner. Ca(2+) and NO responses induced by 10 nM ADM were abolished by pretreatment with 50 microM 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid-acetoxymethyl ester (BAPTA-AM), an intracellular Ca(2+) chelator, or protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitors 5 microM N-[2-(p-bromocinnamylamino)ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide dihydrochloride (H-89) and 50 microM Rp-cAMP. Furthermore, the ADM-induced NO production was significantly attenuated by a protein phosphatase 1/2A inhibitor, okadaic acid (OA; 0.1 microM), or calcineurin inhibitors, tacrolimus (FK506) (1 microM) and cyclosporin A (CsA; 0.1 microM). Using Western blotting, we found that ADM significantly decreased phosphorylation of neuronal nitric-oxide synthase (nNOS) at serine 847. This dephosphorylation was inhibited by 0.1 microM OA, 1 microM FK506, 0.1 microM CsA, or 5 microM H-89, and attenuated by 50 microM BAPTA-AM. These results suggest that, in hypothalamic neurons, ADM elevates [Ca(2+)](i) via PKA-associated mechanisms. The PKA/Ca(2+) cascade leads to protein phosphatase (PP) 1/PP2A- and calcineurin-mediated dephosphorylation of nNOS. We hypothesize that the Ca(2+) increase and nNOS dephosphorylation contribute to activation of nNOS and production of NO in hypothalamic neurons.

Regulation of protein phosphatase 1gamma activity in hypoxia through increased interaction with NIPP1: implications for cellular metabolism

Eukaryotic cells sense decreased oxygen levels and respond by altering their metabolic strategy to sustain non-respiratory ATP production through glycolysis, and thus promote cell survival in a hypoxic environment. Protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) has been recently implicated in the governance of the rational use of energy when metabolic substrates are abundant and contributes to cellular recovery following metabolic stress. Under conditions of hypoxia, the expression of the gamma isoform of PP1 (PP1gamma), is diminished, an event we have hypothesized to be involved in the adaptive cellular response to hypoxia. Decreased PP1gamma activity in hypoxia has a profound impact on the activity of the cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), a major transcriptional regulator of metabolic genes and processes. Here, we demonstrate a further mechanism leading to inhibition of PP1 activity in hypoxia which occurs at least in part through increased association with the nuclear inhibitor of PP1 (NIPP1), an event dependent upon decreased basal cAMP/PKA-dependent signaling. Using a dominant negative NIPP1 construct, we provide evidence that NIPP1 plays a major role in the regulation of both CREB protein expression and CREB-dependent transcription in hypoxia. Furthermore, we demonstrate functional sequellae of such events including altered gene expression and recovery of cellular ATP levels. In summary, we demonstrate that interaction with NIPP1 mediates decreased PP1gamma activity in hypoxia, an event which may constitute an inherent part of the cellular oxygen-sensing machinery and may play a role in physiologic adaptation to hypoxia.

Substrate specificity and activity regulation of protein kinase MELK

Maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) is a protein Ser/Thr kinase that has been implicated in stem cell renewal, cell cycle progression, and pre-mRNA splicing, but its substrates and regulation are not yet known. We show here that MELK has a rather broad substrate specificity and does not appear to require a specific sequence surrounding its (auto)phosphorylation sites. We have mapped no less than 16 autophosphorylation sites including serines, threonines, and a tyrosine residue and show that the phosphorylation of Thr167 and Ser171 is required for the activation of MELK. The expression of MELK activity also requires reducing agents such as dithiothreitol or reduced glutathione. Furthermore, we show that MELK is a Ca2+-binding protein and is inhibited by physiological Ca2+ concentrations. The smallest MELK fragment that was still catalytically active comprises the N-terminal catalytic domain and the flanking ubiquitin-associated domain. A C-terminal fragment of MELK functions as an autoinhibitory domain. Our data show that the activity of MELK is regulated in a complex manner and offer new perspectives for the further elucidation of its biological function.

Potentiation of neutrophil cyclooxygenase-2 by adenosine: an early anti-inflammatory signal

Neutrophils, which are often the first to migrate at inflamed sites, can generate leukotriene B(4) from the 5-lipoxygenase pathway and prostaglandin E(2) through the inducible cyclooxygenase-2 pathway. Adenosine, an endogenous autacoid with several anti-inflammatory properties, blocks the synthesis of leukotriene B(4) while it potentiates the cyclooxygenase-2 pathway in fMLP-treated neutrophils, following activation of the A(2A) receptor. Using the murine air pouch model of inflammation, we observed that inflammatory leukocytes from mice lacking the A(2A) receptor have less cyclooxygenase-2 induction than wild-type animals. In human leukocytes, A(2A) receptor activation specifically elicited potentiation of cyclooxygenase-2 in neutrophils, but not in monocytes. Signal transduction studies indicated that the cAMP, ERK1/2, PI-3K and p38K intracellular pathways are implicated both in the direct upregulation of cyclooxygenase-2 and in its potentiation. Together, these results indicate that neutrophils are particularly important mediators of adenosine's effects. Given the uncontrolled inflammatory phenotype observed in knockout mice and in view of the potent inhibitory actions of prostaglandin E(2) on inflammatory cells, an increased cyclooxygenase-2 expression resulting from A(2A) receptor activation, observed particularly in neutrophils, may take part in an early modulatory mechanism promoting anti-inflammatory activities of adenosine.

The nuclear scaffold protein NIPP1 is essential for early embryonic development and cell proliferation

NIPP1 (nuclear inhibitor of protein phosphatase 1) is a ubiquitously expressed nuclear scaffold protein that has been implicated in both transcription and RNA processing. Among its protein ligands are a protein kinase, a protein phosphatase, two splicing factors, and a transcriptional regulator, and the binding of these proteins to NIPP1 is tightly regulated by phosphorylation. To study the function of NIPP1 in vivo, we have used homologous recombination to generate mice that are deficient in NIPP1. NIPP1(-/+) mice developed normally. However, NIPP1(-/-) embryos showed severely retarded growth at embryonic day 6.5 (E6.5) and were resorbed by E8.5. This early embryonic lethality was not associated with increased apoptosis but correlated with impaired cell proliferation. Blastocyst outgrowth experiments and the RNA interference-mediated knockdown of NIPP1 in cultured cells also revealed an essential role for NIPP1 in cell proliferation. In further agreement with this function, no viable NIPP1(-/-) cell lines were obtained by derivation of embryonic stem (ES) cells from blastocysts of NIPP1(-/+) intercrosses or by forced homogenotization of heterozygous ES cells at high concentrations of Geneticin. We conclude that NIPP1 is indispensable for early embryonic development and cell proliferation.

The role of protein phosphatase-1 in the modulation of synaptic and structural plasticity

Synaptic plasticity is a phenomenon contributing to changes in the efficacy of neuronal transmission. These changes are widely believed to be a major cellular basis for learning and memory. Protein phosphorylation is a key biochemical process involved in synaptic plasticity that operates through a tight balance between the action of protein kinases and protein phosphatases (PPs). Although the majority of research in this field has concentrated primarily on protein kinases, the significant role of PPs is becoming increasingly apparent. This review examines one such phosphatase, PP1, and highlights recent advances in the understanding of its intervention in synaptic and structural plasticity and the mechanisms of learning and memory.

Inhibition of Spliceosome Assembly by the Cell Cycle-regulated Protein Kinase MELK and Involvement of Splicing Factor NIPP1

NIPP1 is a ubiquitous nuclear protein that is required for spliceosome assembly. We report here that the phosphothreonine-binding Forkhead-associated domain of NIPP1 interacts with the cell cycle-regulated protein Ser/Thr kinase MELK (maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase). The NIPP1-MELK interaction was critically dependent on the phosphorylaton of Thr-478 of MELK and was increased in lysates from mitotically arrested cells. Recombinant MELK was a potent inhibitor of an early step of spliceosome assembly in nuclear extracts. This splicing defect was also seen with a kinase-dead mutant but was absent after mutation (T478A) of the NIPP1 binding site of MELK, indicating a mediatory role for NIPP1. Our data suggest that MELK has a role in the cell cycle-regulated control of pre-mRNA splicing.

The protein phosphatase-1 (PP1) regulator, nuclear inhibitor of PP1 (NIPP1), interacts with the polycomb group protein, embryonic ectoderm development (EED), and functions as a transcriptional repressor

The nuclear protein NIPP1 (nuclear inhibitor of protein Ser/Thr phosphatase-1) interacts with the splicing factors SAP155 and CDC5L and is involved in a late step of spliceosome assembly. In addition, NIPP1 is an interactor of protein phosphatase-1 and a COOH-terminal NIPP1 fragment displays an RNase E like endoribonuclease activity. A yeast two-hybrid screening resulted in the identification of the Polycomb group protein EED (embryonic ectoderm development), an established transcriptional repressor, as a novel NIPP1 interactor. NIPP1 only interacted with full-length EED, whereas two EED interaction domains were mapped to the central and COOH-terminal thirds of NIPP1. The NIPP1-EED interaction was potentiated by the binding of (d)G-rich nucleic acids to the central domain of NIPP1. Nucleic acids also decreased the potency of NIPP1 as an inhibitor of PP1, but they did not prevent the formation of a ternary NIPP1.EED.PP1 complex. EED had no effect on the function of NIPP1 as a splicing factor or as an endoribonuclease. However, similar to EED, NIPP1 acted as a transcriptional repressor of targeted genes and this NIPP1 effect was mediated by the EED interaction domain. Also, the histone deacetylase 2 was present in a complex with NIPP1. Our data are in accordance with a role for NIPP1 as a DNA-targeting protein for EED and associated chromatin-modifying enzymes.

KEPI, a PKC-dependent protein phosphatase 1 inhibitor regulated by morphine

cDNAs encoding KEPI, a novel protein kinase C (PKC)-potentiated inhibitory protein for type 1 Ser/Thr protein phosphatase (PP1), were identified. They were found among morphine-regulated brain mRNAs identified using subtracted differential display techniques. Full-length rat, mouse, and human cDNA and genomic sequences were elucidated with library screening and data base searching. Rat, mouse, and human KEPI cDNAs encode 164-165 amino acid proteins with calculated isoelectric points of 5.2. Each species' amino acid sequence contains consensus sequences for phosphorylation by PKC (KVT(72)VK), protein kinase A (RKLS(154)), and casein kinase II (S(43)SRE, S(120)EEE). Multiple KEPI N-terminal myristoylation consensus sites provide potential regions for membrane anchoring. Subcellular fractionation and Western analyses revealed that most KEPI immunoreactivity was associated with P2 and P3 membrane-enriched fractions and little in cytosolic fractions. 2.6-kb KEPI mRNAs were detected in brain, especially in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus, and in heart and skeletal muscle. Brain KEPI mRNA was up-regulated by both acute and chronic morphine treatments. The human KEPI gene contains four exons extending over more than 100 kb of genomic sequence on 6q24-q25, near the mu opiate receptor gene. These sequences displayed sufficient homology with the porcine PP1 inhibitor CPI-17 that we asked whether KEPI could share the ability of CPI-17 to modulate PP1 activity in a PKC-dependent fashion. Recombinant mouse KEPI is phosphorylated by PKC with a K(m) of 2.6 microm and a t(1/2) of 20 min. Phospho-KEPI inhibits PP1alpha with an IC(50) of 2.7 nm, a potency more than 600-fold greater than that displayed by unphosphorylated KEPI. Neither phospho- nor dephospho-KEPI inhibits protein phosphatase 2A. Up-regulation of KEPI expression by morphine, an agonist at PKC-regulating G-protein-coupled mu receptors, provides a novel signaling paradigm in which the half-lives of serine/threonine phosphorylation events can be influenced by activities at G(i)/G(o)-coupled receptors that modulate KEPI expression, KEPI phosphorylation, and KEPI regulation of PP1 activity.

Purification and characterization of protein phosphatase-1 from two cold-hardy goldenrod gall insects

The catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase-1 (PP-1) was purified to homogeneity from final instar larvae (the overwintering stage) of freeze avoiding (Epiblema scudderiana) and freeze tolerant (Eurosta solidaginis) cold-hardy insects. Arrhenius plots showed that activity of PP-1 from both species was strongly suppressed at low temperature. Acidic shifts in pH optima and increased inhibition by okadaic acid were also observed when the enzymes were assayed at 4 degrees C compared with 24 degrees C. The data identify multiple ways by which PP-1 can be inhibited at low temperature and this inhibition appears to be key to sustaining high glycogen phosphorylase activity in support of polyol synthesis at low temperatures.

Insulin control of glycogen metabolism in knockout mice lacking the muscle-specific protein phosphatase PP1G/RGL

The regulatory-targeting subunit (RGL), also called GM) of the muscle-specific glycogen-associated protein phosphatase PP1G targets the enzyme to glycogen where it modulates the activity of glycogen-metabolizing enzymes. PP1G/RGL has been postulated to play a central role in epinephrine and insulin control of glycogen metabolism via phosphorylation of RGL. To investigate the function of the phosphatase, RGL knockout mice were generated. Animals lacking RGL show no obvious defects. The RGL protein is absent from the skeletal and cardiac muscle of null mutants and present at approximately 50% of the wild-type level in heterozygotes. Both the level and activity of C1 protein are also decreased by approximately 50% in the RGL-deficient mice. In skeletal muscle, the glycogen synthase (GS) activity ratio in the absence and presence of glucose-6-phosphate is reduced from 0.3 in the wild type to 0.1 in the null mutant RGL mice, whereas the phosphorylase activity ratio in the absence and presence of AMP is increased from 0.4 to 0.7. Glycogen accumulation is decreased by approximately 90%. Despite impaired glycogen accumulation in muscle, the animals remain normoglycemic. Glucose tolerance and insulin responsiveness are identical in wild-type and knockout mice, as are basal and insulin-stimulated glucose uptakes in skeletal muscle. Most importantly, insulin activated GS in both wild-type and RGL null mutant mice and stimulated a GS-specific protein phosphatase in both groups. These results demonstrate that RGL is genetically linked to glycogen metabolism, since its loss decreases PP1 and basal GS activities and glycogen accumulation. However, PP1G/RGL is not required for insulin activation of GS in skeletal muscle, and rather another GS-specific phosphatase appears to be involved.

Recruitment of protein phosphatase 1 to the nuclear envelope by A-kinase anchoring protein AKAP149 is a prerequisite for nuclear lamina assembly

Subcellular targeting of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase A [PKA]) and of type 1 protein phosphatase (PP1) is believed to enhance the specificity of these enzymes. We report that in addition to anchoring PKA, A-kinase anchoring protein AKAP149 recruits PP1 at the nuclear envelope (NE) upon somatic nuclear reformation in vitro, and that PP1 targeting to the NE is a prerequisite for assembly of B-type lamins. AKAP149 is an integral membrane protein of the endoplasmic reticulum/NE network. The PP1-binding domain of AKAP149 was identified as K(153)GVLF(157). PP1 binds immobilized AKAP149 in vitro and coprecipitates with AKAP149 from purified NE extracts. Affinity isolation of PP1 from solubilized NEs copurifies AKAP149. Upon reassembly of somatic nuclei in interphase extract, PP1 is targeted to the NE. Targeting is inhibited by a peptide containing the PP1-binding domain of AKAP149, abolished in nuclei assembled with membranes immunodepleted of AKAP149, and restored after reincorporation of AKAP149 into nuclear membranes. B-type lamins do not assemble into a lamina when NE targeting of PP1 is abolished, and is rescued upon recruitment of PP1 to the NE. We propose that kinase and phosphatase anchoring at the NE by AKAP149 plays in a role in modulating nuclear reassembly at the end of mitosis.

Regulation of protein phosphatase-1

Reversible protein phosphorylation is a major regulatory mechanism of intracellular signal transduction. Protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) is one of four major types of serine-threonine phosphatases mediating signaling pathways, but the means by which its activity is modulated has only recently begun to come into focus.

Thrombin activates transcription factors sp1, NF-kappaB, and CREB: importance of the use of phosphatase inhibitors during nuclear protein extraction for the assessment of transcription factor DNA-binding activities

Thrombin, a serine protease, is an important effector of many cellular processes and has been shown to up-regulate the expression of several genes. The mechanisms underlying thrombin-mediated regulation of gene transcription remain poorly understood. The original aim of this work was to study the effects of thrombin on the activation of transcription factors, Sp1, NF-kappaB, and CREB by means of electrophoretic mobility-shift assays (EMSA). However, an inconsistent pattern of results was observed. We raised the possibility that some EMSA results may have been erroneous by the fact that during the nuclear protein extraction and EMSA procedure, transcription factors are dephosphorylated by cellular phosphatases and hence their DNA-binding capacities are modified. Therefore, we have altered the original nuclear extraction protocol by including a mixture of phosphatase inhibitors during protein extraction and subsequent EMSA steps. We show here that this simple measure led to significant changes in both basal and thrombin-induced levels of activation of Sp1 and CREB, but not of NF-kappaB. In light of the data presented here, it would be important to reexamine the conclusions of many reports in which EMSA was used to assess the basal and agonist-induced levels of transcription factor DNA-binding activities.

Importance of the beta12-beta13 loop in protein phosphatase-1 catalytic subunit for inhibition by toxins and mammalian protein inhibitors

Type-1 protein serine/threonine phosphatases (PP1) are uniquely inhibited by the mammalian proteins, inhibitor-1 (I-1), inhibitor-2 (I-2), and nuclear inhibitor of PP1 (NIPP-1). In addition, several natural compounds inhibit both PP1 and the type-2 phosphatase, PP2A. Deletion of C-terminal sequences that included the beta12-beta13 loop attenuated the inhibition of the resulting PP1alpha catalytic core by I-1, I-2, NIPP-1, and several toxins, including tautomycin, microcystin-LR, calyculin A, and okadaic acid. Substitution of C-terminal sequences from the PP2A catalytic subunit produced a chimeric enzyme, CRHM2, that was inhibited by toxins with dose-response characteristics of PP1 and not PP2A. However, CRHM2 was insensitive to the PP1-specific inhibitors, I-1, I-2, and NIPP-1. The anticancer compound, fostriecin, differed from other phosphatase inhibitors in that it inhibited wild-type PP1alpha, the PP1alpha catalytic core, and CRHM2 with identical IC(50). Binding of wild-type and mutant phosphatases to immobilized microcystin-LR, NIPP-1, and I-2 established that the beta12-beta13 loop was essential for the association of PP1 with toxins and the protein inhibitors. These studies point to the importance of the beta12-beta13 loop structure and conformation for the control of PP1 functions by toxins and endogenous proteins.

Molecular determinants of nuclear protein phosphatase-1 regulation by NIPP-1

NIPP-1 is a subunit of the major nuclear protein phosphatase-1 (PP-1) in mammalian cells and potently inhibits PP-1 activity in vitro. Using yeast two-hybrid and co-sedimentation assays, we mapped a PP-1-binding site and the inhibition function to the central one-third domain of NIPP-1. Full-length NIPP-1 (351 residues) and the central domain, NIPP-1(143-217), were equally potent PP-1 inhibitors (IC50 = 0.3 nM). Synthetic peptides spanning the central domain of NIPP-1 further narrowed the PP-1 inhibitory function to residues 191-200. A second, noninhibitory PP-1-binding site was identified by far-Western assays with digoxygenin-conjugated catalytic subunit (PP-1C) and included a consensus RVXF motif (residues 200-203) found in many other PP-1-binding proteins. The substitutions, V201A and/or F203A, in the RVXF motif, or phosphorylation of Ser199 or Ser204, which are established phosphorylation sites for protein kinase A and protein kinase CK2, respectively, prevented PP-1C-binding by NIPP-1(191-210) in the far-Western assay. NIPP-1(191-210) competed for PP-1 inhibition by full-length NIPP-1(1-351), inhibitor-1 and inhibitor-2, and dissociated PP-1C from inhibitor-1- and NIPP-1(143-217)-Sepharose but not from full-length NIPP-1(1-351)-Sepharose. Together, these data identified some of the key elements in the central domain of NIPP-1 that regulate PP-1 activity and suggested that the flanking sequences stabilize the association of NIPP-1 with PP-1C.

Mechanisms of androgen receptor activation and function

Androgens play a crucial role in several stages of male development and in the maintenance of the male phenotype. Androgens act in their target cells via an interaction with the androgen receptor, resulting in direct regulation of gene expression. The androgen receptor is a phosphoprotein and modulation of the phosphorylation status of the receptor influences ligand-binding and consequently transcription activation of androgen responsive genes. Androgen binding induces a conformational change in the ligand-binding domain, accompanied by additional receptor phosphorylation. Subsequently the liganded androgen receptor interacts with specific androgen response elements in the regulatory regions of androgen target genes, resulting in stimulation of gene expression. Anti-androgens induce a different conformational change of the ligand-binding domain, which does not or only partially result in stimulation of transactivation. Interestingly, different anti-androgens can induce different inactive conformations of the androgen receptor ligand-binding domain. Recent evidence strongly supports a ligand dependent functional interaction between the ligand-binding domain and the NH2-terminal transactivating domain of the androgen receptor. Two regions in the NH2-terminal domain are involved in this interaction, whereas in the ligand-binding domain the AF-2 AD core region is involved.

Characterization of protein phosphatases in mouse oocytes

Okadaic acid (OA) enhances the resumption of meiosis in mouse oocytes, indicating that serine/threonine protein phosphatase-1 (PP1) and/or PP2A is involved. However, specific identification of PP1 and/or PP2A in mouse oocytes has not been reported. Here we demonstrate that fully grown germinal vesicle-intact (GVI) mouse oocytes contain mRNA corresponding to two isotypes of PP1, PP1alpha and PP1gamma. In addition, the transcript for PP2A was also present. At the protein level only PP1alpha and PP2A were recognized in fully grown GVI oocytes by Western blot analysis. Neither of the PP1gamma spliced variant proteins, PP1gamma1 and PP1gamma2, was detectable. Immunohistochemical analysis of ovarian tissue from gonadotropin-stimulated adult mice resulted in subcellular localization of both PP1alpha and PP2A, but not PP1gamma, in oocytes from all stages of folliculogenesis. In primordial oocytes, PP1alpha and PP2A were present in the cytoplasm. In more advanced stages of oogenesis, PP1alpha, although still present in the cytoplasm, was highly concentrated in the nucleus, whereas PP2A was predominantly cytoplasmic with a distinct reduction in the nuclear area. Both PP1alpha and PP2A were immunodetectable in oocytes during the prepubertal period. Eleven-day-old mouse oocytes, considered OA-insensitive and germinal vesicle breakdown (GVB)-incompetent, displayed both PP1alpha and PP2A predominantly in the cytoplasm. By 15 days of age mouse oocytes, which are beginning to acquire OA sensitivity and GVB competence, showed a relocation of PP1alpha into the nucleoplasm while PP2A remained predominantly cytoplasmic. This is the first specific identification of PP1alpha and PP2A in mouse oocytes. The differential localization of PP1alpha and PP2A, in addition to the relocation of PP1alpha during the acquisition of meiotic competence, suggests that these PPs have distinct regulatory roles during the resumption of meiosis.

Protein phosphatase 1 is targeted to microtubules by the microtubule-associated protein Tau

Phosphorylation has been implicated in the regulation of microtubule (MT) stability and function by controlling the interactions between MTs and MT-associated proteins. We found previously that protein phosphatase inhibitors selectively break down stable MTs, suggesting that protein phosphatases may be involved in regulating MT stability. To identify the protein phosphatases involved, we examined purified calf brain MTs and found a protein phosphatase activity that copurified with MTs to constant stoichiometry. Western blot analysis and inhibitor profiles demonstrated that the MT-associated phosphatase was a type 1 protein phosphatase (PP1), which we named PP1MT. Recombinant PP1 catalytic subunit (PP1c) did not bind to MTs, whereas PP1MT did bind, suggesting the presence of proteins that target PP1 to MTs. By Sepharose CL-6B chromatography, the phosphatase activity of PP1MT eluted as a large protein complex of approximately 400 kDa. High salt (2 M NaCl) treatment followed by CL-6B chromatography dissociated PP1MT into PP1c and the MT-targeting subunit(s). The MT-targeting subunit was shown to be the MT-associated protein tau by PP1 blot overlays and other assays. Also, recombinant tau reconstituted the binding of PP1c to MTs. These results identify PP1 as the first tau binding protein and suggest that tau is a novel PP1-targeting subunit.

The structure and mechanism of protein phosphatases: insights into catalysis and regulation

Eukaryotic protein phosphatases are structurally and functionally diverse enzymes that are represented by three distinct gene families. Two of these, the PPP and PPM families, dephosphorylate phosphoserine and phosphothreonine residues, whereas the protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) dephosphorylate phosphotyrosine amino acids. A subfamily of the PTPs, the dual-specificity phosphatases, dephosphorylate all three phosphoamino acids. Within each family, the catalytic domains are highly conserved, with functional diversity endowed by regulatory domains and subunits. The protein Ser/Thr phosphatases are metalloenzymes and dephosphorylate their substrates in a single reaction step using a metal-activated nucleophilic water molecule. In contrast, the PTPs catalyze dephosphorylation by use of a cysteinyl-phosphate enzyme intermediate. The crystal structures of a number of protein phosphatases have been determined, enabling us to understand their catalytic mechanisms and the basis for substrate recognition and to begin to provide insights into molecular mechanisms of protein phosphatase regulation.

Differential subcellular localization of protein phosphatase-1 alpha, gamma1, and delta isoforms during both interphase and mitosis in mammalian cells

Protein phosphatase-1 (PP-1) is involved in the regulation of numerous metabolic processes in mammalian cells. The major isoforms of PP-1, alpha, gamma1, and delta, have nearly identical catalytic domains, but they vary in sequence at their extreme NH2 and COOH termini. With specific antibodies raised against the unique COOH-terminal sequence of each isoform, we find that the three PP-1 isoforms are each expressed in all mammalian cells tested, but that they localize within these cells in a strikingly distinct and characteristic manner. Each isoform is present both within the cytoplasm and in the nucleus during interphase. Within the nucleus, PP-1 alpha associates with the nuclear matrix, PP-1 gamma1 concentrates in nucleoli in association with RNA, and PP-1 delta localizes to nonnucleolar whole chromatin. During mitosis, PP-1 alpha is localized to the centrosome, PP-1 gamma1 is associated with microtubules of the mitotic spindle, and PP-1 delta strongly associates with chromosomes. We conclude that PP-1 isoforms are targeted to strikingly distinct and independent sites in the cell, permitting unique and independent roles for each of the isoforms in regulating discrete cellular processes.

Forskolin-induced dephosphorylation of the androgen receptor impairs ligand binding

When androgen receptor containing cells are cultured in the presence of the PKA stimulator forskolin, a rapid dephosphorylation of the androgen receptor occurs resulting in a decrease in the amount of 112 kDa androgen receptor isoform and an increase in 110 kDa androgen receptor isoform on SDS-PAGE. To establish which amino acid residues in the androgen receptor were phosphorylated in control and forskolin-treated cells, trypsin-digested androgen receptors were subjected to RP-HPLC analysis and subsequently to Edman degradation. It was observed that serine residues 506, 641, and 653 were potentially phosphorylated in control cells, while after forskolin treatment strong evidence was obtained that phosphorylation of serines 641 and 653 was significantly reduced. When the dephosphorylated androgen receptor was analyzed for its transcription activation capacity, it was observed that androgen-induced transcriptional regulation of two endogenous genes (PSA) and beta 1-subunit of Na,K-ATPase), in cells cultured in the presence of forskolin, was inhibited as compared to the control situation. The observation that the dephosphorylated androgen receptor was transcriptionally less active was further strengthened by the finding that the dephosphorylated androgen receptor was markedly impaired in ligand binding (Bmax was found to be reduced by approximately 40%). The current investigations show for the first time a clear function for the rapid phosphorylation which occurs directly after synthesis of the androgen receptor, namely, effective ligand binding.

Properties and phosphorylation sites of baculovirus-expressed nuclear inhibitor of protein phosphatase-1 (NIPP-1)

NIPP-1 is the RNA-binding subunit of a major species of protein phosphatase-1 in the nucleus. We have expressed nuclear inhibitor of protein phosphatase-1 (NIPP-1) in Sf9 cells, using the baculovirus-expression system. The purified recombinant protein was a potent (Ki = 9.9 +/- 0.3 pM) and specific inhibitor of protein phosphatase-1 and was stoichiometrically phosphorylated by protein kinases A and CK2. At physiological ionic strength, phosphorylation by these protein kinases drastically decreased the inhibitory potency of free NIPP-1. Phosphorylation of NIPP-1 in a heterodimeric complex with the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase-1 resulted in an activation of the holoenzyme without a release of NIPP-1. Sequencing and phosphoamino acid analysis of tryptic phosphopeptides enabled us to identify Ser178 and Ser199 as the phosphorylation sites of protein kinase A, whereas Thr161 and Ser204 were phosphorylated by protein kinase CK2. These residues all conform to consensus recognition sites for phosphorylation by protein kinases A or CK2 and are clustered near a RVXF sequence that has been identified as a motif that interacts with the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase-1.

Inhibition of the Ser-Thr phosphatases PP1 and PP2A by naturally occurring toxins

The okadaic acid class of naturally occurring toxins is a structurally diverse group of molecules that inhibit the protein phosphatases PP1 and PP2A. Studies providing information about the mode of binding between the toxins and the phosphatases contribute to an overall understanding of the signal transduction pathways in which the phosphatases are involved.

NIPP-1, a nuclear inhibitory subunit of protein phosphatase-1, has RNA-binding properties

NIPP-1 is a nuclear inhibitory subunit of protein phosphatase-1 with structural similarities to some proteins involved in RNA processing. We report here that baculovirus-expressed recombinant NIPP-1 displays RNA-binding properties, as revealed by North-Western analysis, by UV-mediated cross-linking, by RNA mobility-shift assays, and by chromatography on poly(U)-Sepharose. NIPP-1 preferentially bound to U-rich sequences, including RNA-destabilizing AUUUA motifs. NIPP-1 also associated with single-stranded DNA, but had no affinity for double-stranded DNA. The binding of NIPP-1 to RNA was blocked by antibodies directed against the COOH terminus of NIPP-1, but was not affected by prior phosphorylation of NIPP-1 with protein kinase A or casein kinase-2, which decreases the affinity of NIPP-1 for protein phosphatase-1. The catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase-1 did not bind to poly(U)-Sepharose, but it bound very tightly after complexation with NIPP-1. These data are in agreement with a function of NIPP-1 in targeting protein phosphatase-1 to RNA.

Modulation of transcription factor Sp1 by cAMP-dependent protein kinase

Transcription factor Sp1 is a phosphoprotein whose level and DNA binding activity are markedly increased in doxorubicin-resistant HL-60 (HL-60/AR) leukemia cells. The trans-activating and DNA binding properties of Sp1 in HL-60/AR cells are stimulated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) and PKA agonists and inhibited by PKA antagonists as well as by the PKA regulatory subunit. Reporter gene activity under the control of the Sp1-dependent SV40 promoter is stimulated in insect cells transiently expressing Sp1 and PKA, and the DNA binding activity of recombinant Sp1 is activated by exogenous PKA in vitro. These results indicate that Sp1 is a cAMP-responsive transcription factor and that Sp1-dependent genes may be modulated through a cAMP-dependent signaling pathway.

Inhibition of translation by mRNA encoding NIPP-1, a nuclear inhibitor of protein phosphatase-1

Transient transfection of COS-1 cells with an expression vector for NIPP-1, a nuclear subunit of protein phosphatase-1, did not result in an overexpression of NIPP-1 protein, although the levels of mRNA encoding NIPP-1 increased dramatically. Moreover, high concentrations of NIPP-1 mRNA inhibited the translation in reticulocyte lysates of various unrelated mRNAs. This inhibition of translation was caused by the NIPP-1 messenger and not by the translation product, since mutation of the start codon abolished NIPP-1 protein production, but had no influence on the translational inhibition. Analysis of deletion mutants showed that the inhibition was mediated by a 0.5-kb fragment in the 5'-end of the NIPP-1 mRNA. This region, when inserted in the 5'-untranslated region of the beta-galactosidase messenger, inhibited the translation of beta-galactosidase mRNA in COS-1 cells. A predicted highly stable secondary structure deltaG = -239.5 kJ/mol) is present between residues 300 and 500 of NIPP-1 mRNA. The possible importance of this structure in the translational inhibition is discussed.

Total Synthesis of the Serine/Threonine-Specific Protein Phosphatase Inhibitor Tautomycin(1)

A convergent, asymmetric synthesis of the protein phosphatase inhibitor, tautomycin, is described. The natural product was constructed by joining two major fragments of comparable complexity at the C21-C22 bond. Absolute stereochemistry of the C1-C21 ketone originates from (S)-citronellene and (2R,3S)-geraniol epoxide. The anti stereochemical relationships at C6-C7 and C18-C19 were introduced with Duthaler's chiral titanium propionic enolate. Syn stereochemical relationships at C13-C14 and C23-C24 were established using an Evan's oxazolidinone chiral auxiliary. The spiroketal was efficiently constructed via a one-pot double-alkylation-spirocyclization sequence with acetone N,N-dimethylhydrazone serving as the central linchpin. Final coupling of the two halves using a chelation-controlled Mukaiyama aldol addition followed by deprotection yielded synthetic tautomycin that is identical to the natural product.

Phosphorylation and regulation of CTP synthetase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae by protein kinase A

The phosphorylation and regulation of the URA7-encoded CTP synthetase (EC 6.3.4.2, UTP:ammonia ligase (ADP-forming)) from Saccharomyces cerevisiae by cAMP-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase A) were examined. Protein kinase A is the principal mediator of signals transmitted through the RAS/cAMP pathway in S. cerevisiae. The results of labeling experiments indicated that the phosphorylation of CTP synthetase was mediated by the RAS/cAMP pathway in vivo. In vitro, protein kinase A phosphorylated CTP synthetase at a serine residue with a stoichiometry consistent with one phosphorylation site per CTP synthetase subunit. Protein kinase A activity was dose- and time-dependent using CTP synthetase as a substrate. The dependence of protein kinase A activity on CTP synthetase was cooperative (n = 1.8) and the Km value for CTP synthetase was 73 nM. Phosphorylation of CTP synthetase with protein kinase A resulted in the stimulation (190%) of activity. The mechanism of this stimulation included an increase in the Vmax of the reaction with respect to UTP and ATP, a decrease in the Km for ATP, and a decrease in the cooperative kinetic behavior of the enzyme. Phosphorylated CTP synthetase was less sensitive to product inhibition by CTP. Protein kinase C also phosphorylates and activates CTP synthetase. Phosphorylation of CTP synthetase with protein kinases A and C together resulted in an increase in CTP synthetase activity that was slightly greater than that obtained when the enzyme was phosphorylated with either protein kinase alone.

Activation and enzyme characteristics of a DNA-restrained phosphatase in chromatin-associated complexes

DNA-bound polypeptide complexes composed of several non-histone polypeptides that resisted harsh DNA deproteinization procedures were characterized. The three major polypeptides of these complexes have molecular masses of 62, 52, and 40 kDa. They constitute supramolecular structures that reside on isolated DNA in dense clusters. The supramolecular complexes were released from DNA as globular 12.8 +/- 0.8-nm particles; these particles were gradually disassembled to form smaller supramolecular structures. The DNA-bound complexes comprise of an encrypted adenosinetriphosphatase/phosphatase activity, which is a minor but intrinsic component of the complexes. The enzyme remained inactive as long as the complexes were bound to DNA. However, the enzyme was activated concomitantly with the progression of DNA digestion, which indicated that DNA was involved in the downregulation of the enzyme. The inactive DNA-restrained complex could not be restored in vitro, which indicated its non-trivial nature. Once released from DNA, the enzyme was inactivated over a period of several hours. However, in the DNA-associated complexes its potential to become activated during DNA digestion was conserved for several months. In the activated state, the enzyme showed an optimum activity at pH 9.5, was stimulated by Mg2+, inhibited by vanadate and EDTA, but was not significantly inhibited by okadaic acid. The active enzyme, which consists of two subunits of 56 kDa and 59 kDa, can be released from the supramolecular structures by agarose gel electrophoresis. A regulatory mechanism therefore exists for the downregulation of this phosphatase by DNA.

Identification and characterization of cAMP-dependent protein kinase and its possible direct interactions with protein phosphatase-1 in marine dinoflagellates

We have examined the nature of signal transduction involving reversible protein phosphorylation in marine Prorocentrale species. Of particular interest is the marine dinoflagellate Prorocentrum lima in which the tumour promoter okadaic acid is produced and may interfere with signal transduction. We have identified cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) activity in P. lima, P. micans, and P. minimum. The P. lima enzyme was characterized biochemically and appears to consist of two different isoforms in the R2C2 configuration. Whole cell extracts of P. micans and P. minimum treated with the specific PKA inhibitor peptide PKI (5-24) or cAMP demonstrated altered intensities of phosphopeptide 32P labeling, most likely involving regulation of a protein phosphatase via PKA activity. A primary candidate for PKA regulation is protein phosphatase-1 (PP-1), which in P. lima possesses a classical PKA consensus phosphorylation site. We demonstrate that a peptide fragment of PP-1 from P. lima corresponding to this PKA phosphorylation site can be effectively phosphorylated by PKA and dephosphorylated by calcineurin. We speculate that PP-1 activity among several lower eukaryotes may be mediated directly by reversible phosphorylation. Higher eukaryotes may have developed inhibitor proteins to provide more complex regulation of protein phosphatase activity.

Phospho-serine/threonine phosphatases in rat islets of Langerhans: identification and effect on insulin secretion

Stimulation of insulin secretion is accompanied by changes in the phosphorylation state of several islet polypeptides. Protein (de)phosphorylation is mediated by the action of protein kinases and phosphoprotein phosphatases. In this study we have investigated expression of phospho-serine/threonine phosphatases (PPs) in rat islets of Langerhans and studied the role of these enzymes in the regulation of insulin secretion. PP1, PP2A and PP2B were identified in rat islets and high levels of PP1/2A activities were detected. Inhibition of PP1/2A markedly inhibited glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, whilst glucose increased islet PP1/2A activities in situ. Insulin secretion at basal glucose was unaffected by inhibitors of PP1/2A. Inhibition of PP2B had no effect on either basal or glucose stimulated insulin secretion. These results suggest that PP1/2A are stimulated by glucose in rat islets and the presence of active PP1/2A is required for stimulation of insulin secretion by glucose.

Tyrosine-272 is involved in the inhibition of protein phosphatase-1 by multiple toxins

Protein phosphatase-1 (PP1) is regulated by interaction with different subunits, which include several inhibitory proteins. It is also potently inhibited by several toxins of diverse origins. Recent work has identified a region near the C-terminus of PP1 (residues 274-277) whose modification was shown to moderate okadaic acid binding [Zhang et al. (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 16997-17000]. In this study, the role of this region in toxin binding was explored by site-directed mutagenesis. A residue (Tyr-272) was identified whose mutation had dramatic effects on the spectrum of inhibitor sensitivity of PP1. The IC50's of a number of mutants of Tyr-272 toward okadaic acid, tautomycin, calyculin A, microcystin-LR, nodularin, inhibitor-2, and cantharidic acid were determined and compared to that of the wild-type enzyme. The sensitivity of PP1 toward tautomycin and calyculin A was markedly decreased, by as much as 3 orders of magnitude, with lesser effects on okadaic acid and nodularin, and with microcystin-LR and inhibitor-2 being the least affected. These studies show that Tyr-272 is of specific importance for the binding of these inhibitors and provide strong evidence for the postulate that these toxins all bind to a common inhibitor site on PP1. In addition, our studies show that Tyr-272 is not required for catalytic activity.

Molecular cloning of NIPP-1, a nuclear inhibitor of protein phosphatase-1, reveals homology with polypeptides involved in RNA processing

NIPP-1 was originally isolated as a potent and specific nuclear inhibitory polypeptide (16-18 kDa) of protein phosphatase-1. We report here the cDNA cloning of NIPP-1 from bovine thymus and show that the native polypeptide consists of 351 residues and has a calculated mass of 38.5 kDa. The bacterially expressed central third of NIPP-1 completely inhibited the type-1 catalytic subunit, but displayed a reduced inhibitory potency after phosphorylation by protein kinase A and casein kinase 2. Translation of NIPP-1 mRNA in reticulocyte lysates resulted in the accumulation of both intact NIPP-1 and a smaller polypeptide generated by alternative initiation at the codon corresponding to Met143. A data base search showed that the COOH terminus of NIPP-1 is nearly identical to the human ard-1 protein (13 kDa), which has been implicated in RNA processing (Wang, M., and Cohen, S. N. (1994) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 91, 10591-10595). Comparison of the cDNAs encoding ard-1 and NIPP-1 suggests that their mRNAs are generated by alternative splicing of the same pre-mRNA. Western blotting with antibodies against the COOH terminus of NIPP-1, however, showed a single polypeptide of 47 kDa, which was enriched in the nucleus. Northern analysis revealed a single transcript of 2.2 kilobases in bovine thymus and of 2.4 kilobases in various human tissues.

Role of LFB3 in cell-specific cAMP induction of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator gene

In previous work we suggested that a kidney-specific transcription factor LFB3 cooperates with cAMP-response element (CRE)-binding proteins within a cAMP regulatory unit comprised of three protein-binding domains and located 3.4 kilobase pairs upstream of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) gene in LLC-PK1 cells (Menoud, P.-A., Matthies, R., Hofsteenge, J., and Nagamine, Y. (1993) Nucleic Acids Res. 21, 1845-1852). The two domains contain a CRE-like sequence, and the third domain is recognized by LFB3. The absolute requirement of LFB3 as well as the cooperation among the three domains for cAMP regulation were confirmed by transient transfection assays in F9 teratocarcinoma cells, in which the level of LFB3 was negligible. Suspecting a possible feedback regulation of LFB3 mRNA expression during cAMP-dependent uPA gene induction in LLC-PK1 cells, we measured LFB3 mRNA levels after cAMP treatment and found a strong reduction. This reduction was not due to a change in template activity of the LFB3 gene because run-on transcription showed no significant change in LFB3 gene transcription. RNA synthesis inhibitor-chase experiments indicated that the down-regulation was post-transcriptional. Interestingly, when the inhibitor was added at the same time as cAMP, the cAMP-induced decrease in LFB3 mRNA levels was abrogated, suggesting that ongoing RNA synthesis is required for the decrease. Similar effects on LFB3 mRNA metabolism were observed with all agents that induce uPA mRNA in LLC-PK1 cells, including 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate, okadaic acid, colchicine, and cytochalasin. We discuss the significance of this regulation in uPA gene expression.

Subunit structure and regulation of protein phosphatase-1 in rat liver nuclei

The activity of protein phosphatase-1 in rat liver nuclei (PP-1N) was decreased by up to 97% by associated inhibitory polypeptides, depending on the assay and extraction conditions. These inhibitors were rapidly degraded by endogenous proteases, resulting in the accumulation of active heat-stable intermediates. Two major species of PP-1N could be differentiated by fractionation of a nuclear extract. PP-1NR111 contained, besides the delta-isoform of the catalytic subunit, an inhibitory polypeptide of 111 kDa. PP-1NR41 was found to be an inactive heterodimer between the delta-isoform of the catalytic subunit and NIPP-1, a nuclear inhibitor of PP-1, which in its undegraded form is heat labile and migrates during SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis as a polypeptide of 41 kDa. Native hepatic NIPP-1 displayed a reduced affinity for the catalytic subunit after phosphorylation by protein kinase A in vitro and after glucagon-induced phosphorylation in vivo.

Purification of the hepatic glycogen-associated form of protein phosphatase-1 by microcystin-Sepharose affinity chromatography

The form of protein phosphatase-1 associated with hepatic glycogen (PP1G) was purified to near homogeneity from rat liver by affinity chromatography on microcystin-Sepharose and gel-filtration. The enzyme is a heterodimer consisting of the catalytic subunit of PP1 (the alpha and beta isoforms) complexed to a 33 kDa glycogen-binding (GL) subunit. The GL subunit binds phosphorylase a with high affinity, and is responsible for the enhanced dephosphorylation of glycogen synthase by PP1G and its allosteric inhibition by phosphorylase a.

Purification of type 1 protein (serine/threonine) phosphatases by microcystin-Sepharose affinity chromatography

A microcystin (MC)-Sepharose column was prepared by addition of 2-aminoethanethiol to the alpha, beta-unsaturated carbonyl of the N-methyldehydroalanine residue of MC-LR, followed by reaction of the introduced amino group with N-hydroxysuccinimide-activated CH-Sepharose. The MC-Sepharose bound protein phosphatase-1 (PP1) with high capacity and purified human PP1 gamma in one step from E. coli extracts. It was also used to purify forms of PP1 bound to myofibrils from skeletal muscle. Two of these comprised PP1 complexed to N-terminal fragments of the M-subunit which enhance its myosin phosphatase activity, while the third comprised PP1 and an N-terminal fragment of the glycogen-binding (G)-subunit.