Regulation of constitutive exocytic transport by membrane receptors. A biochemical and morphometric study

Signaling at the Golgi: sensing and controlling the membrane fluxes

Over the past few decades, it has emerged that the Golgi (and other secretory stations) is host to a variety of signaling molecules and can act as a signaling hub that receives, emits and elaborates signals. This endomembrane-based signaling apparatus appears to have more than one purpose. Its most fundamental function appears to be the auto-regulation of the biosynthetic apparatus to maintain and/or optimize its own activities and to coordinate such activities with those of other cellular modules.(1) This is achieved by dedicated control devices that provide stability, robustness, precision, sensitivity and complexity to cellular behaviors.

Signaling initiated by the secretory compartment

Classical signal transduction is initiated at the plasma membrane by extracellular signals and propagates to the cytosolic face of the same membrane. Multiple studies have shown that endomembranes can act as signaling platforms for this plasma-membrane-originated signaling. Recent evidence has indicated that endomembranes can also trigger their own signaling cascades that involve some of the molecular players that are classically engaged in signal transduction at the plasma membrane. Endomembrane-initiated signaling is important for synchronization of the functioning of the secretory pathway and coordination of the activities of the secretory organelles with other cellular machineries. However, these endomembrane-initiated regulatory circuits are only partially understood to date. This novel field is slowed by a lack of specific tools and the objective difficulties in the study of signal transduction of endomembrane-localized receptors, as their accessibility is limited. For example, the ligand-binding site of the KDEL receptor (that transduces endomembrane signaling) is positioned in the lumen of the Golgi complex. Here we report some approaches that are suitable for the study of endomembrane-initiated signaling.

Thioredoxin-80 is a product of alpha-secretase cleavage that inhibits amyloid-beta aggregation and is decreased in Alzheimer's disease brain

Thioredoxin-1 (Trx1) is an endogenous dithiol reductant and antioxidant that was shown to be decreased in Alzheimer's disease (AD) neurons. A truncated form of Trx1, thioredoxin 80 (Trx80), was reported to be secreted from monocytes having cytokine activity. Here, we show that Trx80 is present in human brain in an aggregated form. Trx80 localizes mainly to neurons and is dramatically decreased in AD brains. Trx80 levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) correlate with those of the classical AD biomarkers amyloid-β (Aβ) 1-42 and total tau. Moreover, Trx80 measurements in CSF discriminate between patients with stable mild cognitive impairment, prodomal AD and mild AD. We report that ADAM10 and 17, two α-secretases processing the Aβ precursor protein, are responsible for Trx80 generation. In contrast to the periphery, Trx80 has no pro-inflammatory effects in glia, either by itself or in combination with Aβ or apolipoprotein E. Instead, Trx80 inhibits Aβ(1-42) aggregation and protects against its toxicity. Thus, a reduction in Trx80 production would result in increased Aβ polymerization and enhanced neuronal vulnerability. Our data suggest that a deficit in Trx80 could participate in AD pathogenesis.

The biogenesis of the Golgi ribbon: the roles of membrane input from the ER and of GM130

The Golgi complex in mammalian cells forms a continuous ribbon of interconnected stacks of flat cisternae. We show here that this distinctive architecture reflects and requires the continuous input of membranes from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), in the form of pleiomorphic ER-to-Golgi carriers (EGCs). An important step in the biogenesis of the Golgi ribbon is the complete incorporation of the EGCs into the stacks. This requires the Golgi-matrix protein GM130, which continuously cycles between the cis-Golgi compartments and the EGCs. On acquiring GM130, the EGCs undergo homotypic tethering and fusion, maturing into larger and more homogeneous membrane units that appear primed for incorporation into the Golgi stacks. In the absence of GM130, this process is impaired and the EGCs remain as distinct entities. This induces the accumulation of tubulovesicular membranes, the shortening of the cisternae, and the breakdown of the Golgi ribbon. Under these conditions, however, secretory cargo can still be delivered to the Golgi complex, although this occurs less efficiently, and apparently through transient and/or limited continuities between the EGCs and the Golgi cisternae.

COPII-Golgi protein interactions regulate COPII coat assembly and Golgi size

Under experimental conditions, the Golgi apparatus can undergo de novo biogenesis from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), involving a rapid phase of growth followed by a return to steady state, but the mechanisms that control growth are unknown. Quantification of coat protein complex (COP) II assembly revealed a dramatic up-regulation at exit sites driven by increased levels of Golgi proteins in the ER. Analysis in a permeabilized cell assay indicated that up-regulation of COPII assembly occurred in the absence GTP hydrolysis and any cytosolic factors other than the COPII prebudding complex Sar1p–Sec23p–Sec24p. Remarkably, acting via a direct interaction with Sar1p, increased expression of the Golgi enzyme N-acetylgalactosaminyl transferase-2 induced increased COPII assembly on the ER and an overall increase in the size of the Golgi apparatus. These results suggest that direct interactions between Golgi proteins exiting the ER and COPII components regulate ER exit, providing a variable exit rate mechanism that ensures homeostasis of the Golgi apparatus.

Chronic PKC-beta2 activation in HT-29 Cl.19a colonocytes prevents cAMP-mediated ion secretion by inhibiting apical membrane CFTR targeting

We investigated the effects of chronically applied PKC-stimulating phorbol esters on subcellular CFTR expression and localization in polarized HT-29 Cl.19A monolayers. Modulation of PKC activity with the PKC-beta-specific agonist 12-deoxyphorbol 13-phenylacetate 20-acetate (DOPPA) or nonisoform-selective PMA altered monolayer CFTR immunofluorescence. A decrease in the CFTR signal within the luminal cellular pole was noted with both phorbol esters. Volumetric analysis of the intracellular CFTR signal revealed that both compounds promoted CFTR accumulation into punctate vesicle-like structures found adjacent to the cellular tight junction [labeled with zona occludens (ZO)-1 antibody], extending basally (DOPPA) into the cell. Puncta were more frequent with DOPPA and larger in size with PMA. DOPPA also promoted ZO-1 accumulation at tricellular corners associated with enhanced CFTR puncta number. The observed loss of CFTR immunofluorescence signal induced by low-dose PMA was related to CFTR sequestration into fewer cytoplasmic puncta and correlated with larger increases in PKC substrate phosphorylation. Both phorbol esters downregulated steady-state cellular CFTR mRNA levels by 70%. However, the effects of DOPPA and PMA were largely independent of CFTR biosynthesis: expression levels were 80-85% of control, and the glycosylation status of immunoprecipitated protein remained largely unchanged. Thus changes in cellular CFTR localization correlated with our companion study showing that PMA-induced inhibition of transcellular cAMP-dependent short-circuit current (ISC) was accompanied by cytoplasmic PKC-beta2 accumulation and modest activation of PKC-beta1 and PKC-epsilon. The inhibitory effect of DOPPA on ISC was related solely to increased cytoplasmic PKC-beta2 levels. Thus PKC-beta2 is hypothesized to participate in the regulation of CFTR apical plasma membrane targeting within the constitutive cellular biosynthetic pathway.

The physiology of membrane transport and endomembrane-based signalling

Some of the important open questions concerning the physiology of the secretory pathway relate to its homeostasis. Secretion involves a number of separate compartments for which their transport activities should be precisely cross-coordinated to avoid gross imbalances in the trafficking system. Moreover, the membrane fluxes across these compartments should be able to adapt to environmental 'requests' and to respond to extracellular signals. How is this regulation effected? Here, we consider evidence that endomembrane-based signalling cascades that are similar in organization to those used at the plasma membrane coordinate membrane traffic. If this is the case, this would also represent a model for a more general inter-organelle signalling network for functionally interconnecting different intracellular activities, a necessity for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis and to express harmonic global cellular responses.

Dicumarol, an inhibitor of ADP-ribosylation of CtBP3/BARS, fragments golgi non-compact tubular zones and inhibits intra-golgi transport

Dicumarol (3,3'-methylenebis[4-hydroxycoumarin]) is an inhibitor of brefeldin-A-dependent ADP-ribosylation that antagonises brefeldin-A-dependent Golgi tubulation and redistribution to the endoplasmic reticulum. We have investigated whether dicumarol can directly affect the morphology of the Golgi apparatus. Here we show that dicumarol induces the breakdown of the tubular reticular networks that interconnect adjacent Golgi stacks and that contain either soluble or membrane-associated cargo proteins. This results in the formation of 65-120-nm vesicles that are sometimes invaginated. In contrast, smaller vesicles (45-65 nm in diameter, a size consistent with that of coat-protein-I-dependent vesicles) that excluded cargo proteins from their lumen are not affected by dicumarol. All other endomembranes are largely unaffected by dicumarol, including Golgi stacks, the ER, multivesicular bodies and the trans-Golgi network. In permeabilized cells, dicumarol activity depends on the function of CtBP3/BARS protein and pre-ADP-ribosylation of cytosol inhibits the breakdown of Golgi tubules by dicumarol. In functional experiments, dicumarol markedly slows down intra-Golgi traffic of VSV-G transport from the endoplasmic reticulum to the medial Golgi, and inhibits the diffusional mobility of both galactosyl transferase and VSV-G tagged with green fluorescent protein. However, it does not affect: transport from the trans-Golgi network to the cell surface; Golgi-to-endoplasmic reticulum traffic of ERGIC58; coat-protein-I-dependent Golgi vesiculation by AlF4 or ADP-ribosylation factor; or ADP-ribosylation factor and beta-coat protein binding to Golgi membranes. Thus the ADP-ribosylation inhibitor dicumarol induces the selective breakdown of the tubular components of the Golgi complex and inhibition of intra-Golgi transport. This suggests that lateral diffusion between adjacent stacks has a role in protein transport through the Golgi complex.

Maintenance of the diacylglycerol level in the Golgi apparatus by the Nir2 protein is critical for Golgi secretory function

The level of diacylglycerol (DAG) in the Golgi apparatus is crucial for protein transport to the plasma membrane. Studies in budding yeast indicate that Sec14p, a phosphatidylinositol (PI)-transfer protein, is involved in regulating DAG homeostasis in the Golgi complex. Here, we show that Nir2, a peripheral Golgi protein containing a PI-transfer domain, is essential for maintaining the structural and functional integrity of the Golgi apparatus in mammalian cells. Depletion of Nir2 by RNAi leads to substantial inhibition of protein transport from the trans-Golgi network to the plasma membrane, and causes a reduction in the DAG level in the Golgi apparatus. Remarkably, inactivation of cytidine [corrected] 5'-diphosphate (CDP)-choline pathway for phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis restores both effects. These results indicate that Nir2 is involved in maintaining a critical DAG pool in the Golgi apparatus by regulating its consumption via the CDP-choline pathway, demonstrating the interface between secretion from the Golgi and lipid homeostasis.

Glycerophosphoinositols inhibit the ability of tumour cells to invade the extracellular matrix

The naturally occurring phosphoinositide metabolite, glycerophosphoinositol 4-phosphate, has recently been shown to induce rearrangements in the actin cytoskeleton through modulation of the small GTPases, Rac and Rho. Since this is directly linked to cell spreading and remodelling, we have evaluated the potential role of glycerophosphoinositol 4-phosphate and related metabolites in tumour cell invasion. The biological effects of these compounds were tested in a number of cellular activities related to cell spreading, including cell migration and cell invasion. We find that unlike other inositol-containing molecules, such as the inositol phosphates, glycerophosphoinositol and glycerophosphoinositol 4-phosphate prevent the invasion of epithelium-derived MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma and A375MM melanoma cell lines through the extracellular matrix; this is due to a decreased ability to degrade matrix components. These data identify a specific activity of the glycerophosphoinositols that can be exploited for their development as novel anti-invasive drugs.

FAPPs control Golgi-to-cell-surface membrane traffic by binding to ARF and PtdIns(4)P

The molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of carriers trafficking from the Golgi complex to the cell surface are still ill-defined; nevertheless, the involvement of a lipid-based machinery is well established. This includes phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PtdIns(4)P), the precursor for phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P(2)). In yeast, PtdIns(4)P exerts a direct role, however, its mechanism of action and its targets in mammalian cells remain uncharacterized. We have identified two effectors of PtdIns(4)P, the four-phosphate-adaptor protein 1 and 2 (FAPP1 and FAPP2). Both proteins localize to the trans-Golgi network (TGN) on nascent carriers, and interact with PtdIns(4)P and the small GTPase ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF) through their plekstrin homology (PH) domain. Displacement or knockdown of FAPPs inhibits cargo transfer to the plasma membrane. Moreover, overexpression of FAPP-PH impairs carrier fission. Therefore, FAPPs are essential components of a PtdIns(4)P- and ARF-regulated machinery that controls generation of constitutive post-Golgi carriers.

Characterisation of an evolutionary conserved protein interacting with the putative guanine nucleotide exchange factor DelGEF and modulating secretion

A human cDNA library was screened for proteins interacting with the deafness locus putative guanine nucleotide exchange factor (DelGEF) using a yeast two-hybrid system. A protein with a predicted size of 9 kDa was identified as a binding partner, this protein was designated DelGEF interacting protein 1 (DelGIP1). The interaction between DelGEF and DelGIP1 was verified by co-immunoprecipitation of a DelGEF-DelGIP1 complex from cell lysates. Highly conserved homologues of DelGIP1 were identified in higher and lower eukaryotes by database searching. The human DelGIP1 gene is ubiquitously expressed as judged by human multiple tissue Northern blot analysis. DelGEF was recently shown to interact with Sec5, a protein involved in secretion, and to regulate secretion of proteoglycans. Downregulation of endogenous DelGIP1 in HeLa cells induced increased extracellular secretion of proteoglycans indicating a possible role for DelGIP1 in the secretion process.

IL-1 Induces Vesicular Secretion of IL-6 without Degranulation from Human Mast Cells

Fc epsilon RI cross-linkage in mast cells results in release of granule-associated mediators, such as histamine and proteases, as well as the production of numerous cytokines, including IL-6. Mast cells have been increasingly implicated in inflammatory processes where explosive degranulation is not commonly observed. Here, we show that IL-1 stimulates secretion of IL-6 without release of the granule-associated protease tryptase in normal human umbilical cord blood-derived mast cells (hCBMCs). IL-6 secretion stimulated by IL-1 in hCBMCs is potentiated by priming with IL-4 and reflects the higher levels of IL-6 secreted from human leukemic mast cell line (HMC-1). Stimulating HMC-1 cells by both IL-1 and TNF-alpha results in synergistic secretion of IL-6. IL-6 is de novo synthesized, as its secretion is blocked by inhibitors of transcription or protein synthesis. IL-1 does not increase intracellular calcium ion levels in either hCBMCs or HMC-1 cells, and IL-6 stimulation proceeds in the absence of extracellular calcium ions. Ultrastructural Immunogold localization shows that IL-6 is excluded from the secretory granules and is compartmentalized in 40- to 80-nm vesicular structures. Selective secretion of IL-6 from mast cells appears distinct from degranulation and may contribute to the development of inflammation, where the importance of IL-6 has been recognized.

DelGEF, a homologue of the Ran guanine nucleotide exchange factor RanGEF, binds to the exocyst component Sec5 and modulates secretion

In order to identify the function of deafness locus putative guanine nucleotide exchange factor (DelGEF), a protein homologous to the nucleotide exchange factor for the small GTPase Ran, a cDNA library was screened for interacting proteins using a yeast two-hybrid system. The human homologue of Sec5, a protein involved in vesicle transport and secretion, was identified as a binding partner. The interaction between DelGEF and Sec5 was found to be dependent on Mg2+ and stimulated by guanosine triphosphate (GTP) or deoxycytidine triphosphate (dCTP). Downregulation of endogenous DelGEF in HeLa cells induced increased extracellular secretion of proteoglycans indicating a possible role for DelGEF in the secretion process.

Myelin biogenesis: vesicle transport in oligodendrocytes

Intracellular trafficking of membranes plays an essential role in the biogenesis and maintenance of myelin. The requisite proteins and lipids are transported from their sites of synthesis to myelin via vesicles. Vesicle transport is tightly coordinated with synthesis of lipids and proteins. To maintain the structural and functional organization of oligodendrocytes it is essential synchronize the various pathways of vesicle transport and to coordinate vesicle transport with reorganization of cytoskeleton. The systems that regulate the targeting of protein to myelin by vesicle transport are now being described. Here we review the current knowledge of these systems including those involved in (a) protein folding, (b) protein sorting and formation of carrier vesicles, (c) vesicle transport along elements of the cytoskeleton, and (d) vesicle targeting/fusion.

Regulation of the neuronal glutamate transporter excitatory amino acid carrier-1 (EAAC1) by different protein kinase C subtypes

In previous studies, we have shown that activation of protein kinase C (PKC) rapidly (within minutes) increases the activity and cell surface expression of the glutamate transporter EAAC1 in two systems that endogenously express this transporter (C6 glioma cells and cocultures of neurons and astrocytes). However, the magnitude of the increase in activity is greater than the increase in cell surface expression. In addition, certain compounds completely block the increase in cell surface expression but only partially attenuate the increase in activity. We hypothesized that PKC increases EAAC1 activity by increasing cell surface expression and catalytic efficiency and that two different subtypes of PKC mediate these effects. To address these hypotheses, the PKC subtypes expressed by C6 glioma cells were identified. Of the PKC subtypes that are activated by phorbol esters, only PKCalpha, PKCdelta, and PKCepsilon were observed. Gö6976, a compound that blocks PKCalpha at concentrations that do not inhibit PKCdelta or PKCepsilon, partially inhibited the increase in uptake but completely abolished the increase in EAAC1 cell surface expression. The 'Gö6976-insensitive' increase in activity was not associated with a change in total transporter expression but was associated with an increase in the V(max). Na(+)-dependent glycine transport was not increased, providing indirect evidence that the Gö6976-insensitive increase in activity was not caused by a change in the Na(+) electrochemical gradient required for activity. Finally, by down-regulating different subtypes of PKC, we found evidence that PKCepsilon mediates the increase in EAAC1 activity that is independent of changes in cell surface expression and found further evidence that PKCalpha mediates the increase in cell surface expression. The potential relationship of the present work with a previously identified role for PKCalpha in certain forms of synaptic plasticity is discussed.

Phosphoinositides and the golgi complex

Phosphoinositides act as precursors of second messengers and membrane ligands for protein modules. Specific lipid kinases and phosphatases are located and differentially regulated in cell organelles, generating a non-uniform distribution of phosphoinositides. Although it is not clear whether and how the phosphoinositide pools are integrated, it is certain that they locally control fundamental processes, including membrane trafficking. This applies to the Golgi complex, where a direct, central role of the phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate precursor phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate has recently been reported.

Glutathione depletion induces apoptosis of rat hepatocytes through activation of protein kinase C novel isoforms and dependent increase in AP-1 nuclear binding

Treatment of isolated rat hepatocytes with the glutathione depleting agents L-buthionine-S,R-sulfoximine or diethylmaleate reproduced various cellular conditions of glutathione depletion, from moderate to severe, similar to those occurring in a wide spectrum of human liver diseases. To evaluate molecular changes and possible cellular dysfunction and damage consequent to a pathophysiologic level of GSH depletion, the effects of this condition on protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms were investigated, since these are involved in the intracellular specific regulatory processes and are potentially sensitive to redox changes. Moreover, a moderate perturbation of cellular redox state was found to activate novel PKC isoforms, and a clear relationship was shown between novel kinase activation and nuclear binding of the redox-sensitive transcription factor, activator protein-1 (AP-1). Apoptotic death of a significant number of cells, confirmed in terms of internucleosomal DNA fragmentation was a possible effect of these molecular reactions, and was triggered by a condition of glutathione depletion usually detected in human liver diseases. Finally, the inhibition of novel PKC enzymatic activity in cells co-treated with rottlerin, a selective novel kinase inhibitor, prevented glutathione-dependent novel PKC up-regulation, markedly moderated AP-1 activation, and protected cells against apoptotic death. Taken together, these findings indicate the existence of an apoptotic pathway dependent on glutathione depletion, which occurs through the up-regulation of novel PKCs and AP-1.

Protein kinase C alpha-dependent phosphorylation of Golgi proteins

Golgi-enriched membranes were phosphorylated in order to understand the mechanism for protein kinase C (PKC) regulation of exocytic vesicle formation at the trans-Golgi network. Two of the main PKC substrates were identified as MARCKS and Mac-MARCKS by two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and mass spectrometric sequencing. Annexin IV and profilin I, two other Golgi-associated proteins--although known as in vitro PKC substrates--were not phosphorylated in the Golgi-bound state.

Stimulation-induced down-regulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha converting enzyme

The extracellular domains of many proteins, including growth factors, cytokines, receptors, and adhesion molecules, are proteolytically released from cells, a process termed "shedding." Tumor necrosis factor-alpha converting enzyme (TACE/ADAM-17) is a metalloprotease-disintegrin that sheds tumor necrosis factor-alpha and other proteins. To study the regulation of TACE-mediated shedding, we examined the effects of stimulation of cells on TACE localization and expression. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed a punctate distribution of TACE on the surface of untreated cells, and stimulation of monocytic cells with lipopolysaccharide did not affect TACE staining. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), a potent inducer of shedding, decreased cell-surface staining for TACE. Surface biotinylation experiments confirmed and extended this observation; PMA decreased the half-life of surface-biotinylated TACE without increasing the turnover of total cell-surface proteins. Soluble fragments of TACE were not detected in the medium of cells that had down-regulated TACE, and TACE was not down-regulated when endocytosis was inhibited. Antibody uptake experiments suggested that cell-surface TACE was internalized in response to PMA. Surprisingly, a metalloprotease inhibitor prevented the PMA-induced turnover of TACE. Thus, PMA activates shedding and causes the down-regulation of a major "sheddase," suggesting that induced shedding may be regulated by a mechanism that decreases the amount of active TACE on the cell surface.

Regulation of protein sorting at the TGN by plasma membrane receptor activation

We show that in the rat basophilic leukemia cell line RBL, the physiological stimulation of the IgE receptor or direct activation of PKC leads to the missorting of proteins to the plasma membrane, diverting them from their normal intracellular destination. This is demonstrated for two classes of proteins that are normally targeted to the secretory lysosomes via completely different mechanisms, i.e. proteoglycans and the aspartic protease cathepsin D. In the latter case, normal processing of the enzyme is also affected, leading to secretion of the immature form of cathepsin. The present study shows how completely different sorting mechanisms, such as those for delivering proteoglycans and cathepsin D to secretory lysosomes, might share common regulatory signals and are similarly affected when the levels of these signals are perturbed. Finally, protein kinase C appears to be a major player in the signal transduction pathways, leading to proteoglycan and cathepsin D missorting.

Potentiation of Fcepsilon receptor I-activated Ca(2+) current (I(CRAC)) by cholera toxin: possible mediation by ADP ribosylation factor

Antigen-evoked influx of extracellular Ca(2+) into mast cells may occur via store-operated Ca(2+) channels called calcium release-activated calcium (CRAC) channels. In mast cells of the rat basophilic leukemia cell line (RBL-2H3), cholera toxin (CT) potentiates antigen-driven uptake of (45)Ca(2+) through cAMP-independent means. Here, we have used perforated patch clamp recording at physiological temperature to test whether cholera toxin or its substrate, Gs, directly modulates the activity of CRAC channels. Cholera toxin dramatically amplified (two- to fourfold) the Ca(2)+ release-activated Ca(2+) current (I(CRAC)) elicited by suboptimal concentrations of antigen, without itself inducing I(CRAC), and this enhancement was not mimicked by cAMP elevation. In contrast, cholera toxin did not affect the induction of I(CRAC) by thapsigargin, an inhibitor of organelle Ca(2+) pumps, or by intracellular dialysis with low Ca(2+) pipette solutions. Thus, the activity of CRAC channels is not directly controlled by cholera toxin or Gsalpha. Nor was the potentiation of I(CRAC) due to enhancement of phosphoinositide hydrolysis or calcium release. Because Gs and the A subunit of cholera toxin bind to ADP ribosylation factor (ARF) and could modulate its activity, we tested the sensitivity of antigen-evoked I(CRAC) to brefeldin A, an inhibitor of ARF-dependent functions, including vesicle transport. Brefeldin A blocked the enhancement of antigen-evoked I(CRAC) without inhibiting ADP ribosylation of Gsalpha, but it did not affect I(CRAC) induced by suboptimal antigen or by thapsigargin. These data provide new evidence that CRAC channels are a major route for Fcin receptor I-triggered Ca(2+) influx, and they suggest that ARF may modulate the induction of I(CRAC) by antigen.

Identification of the putative mammalian orthologue of Sec31P, a component of the COPII coat

The regulation of intracellular vesicular trafficking is mediated by specific families of proteins that are involved in vesicular budding, translocation, and fusion with target membranes. We purified a vesicle-associated protein from hepatic microsomes using sequential column chromatography and partially sequenced it. Oliogonucleotides based on these sequences were used to clone the protein from a rat liver cDNA library. The clone encoded a novel protein with a predicted mass of 137 kDa (p137). The protein had an N terminus WD repeat motif with significant homology to Sec31p, a member of the yeast COPII coat that complexes with Sec13p. We found that p137 interacted with mammalian Sec13p using several approaches: co-elution through sequential column chromatography, co-immunoprecipitation from intact cells, and yeast two-hybrid analysis. Morphologically, the p137 protein was localized to small punctate structures in the cytoplasm of multiple cultured cell lines. When Sec13p was transfected into these cells, it demonstrated considerable overlap with p137. This overlap was maintained through several pharmacological manipulations. The p137 compartment also demonstrated partial overlap with ts045-VSVG protein when infected cells were incubated at 15 degrees C. These findings suggest that p137 is the mammalian orthologue of Sec31p.

CtBP/BARS induces fission of Golgi membranes by acylating lysophosphatidic acid

Membrane fission is essential in intracellular transport. Acyl-coenzyme As (acyl-CoAs) are important in lipid remodelling and are required for fission of COPI-coated vesicles. Here we show that CtBP/BARS, a protein that functions in the dynamics of Golgi tubules, is an essential component of the fission machinery operating at Golgi tubular networks, including Golgi compartments involved in protein transport and sorting. CtBP/BARS-induced fission was preceded by the formation of constricted sites in Golgi tubules, whose extreme curvature is likely to involve local changes in the membrane lipid composition. We find that CtBP/BARS uses acyl-CoA to selectively catalyse the acylation of lysophosphatidic acid to phosphatidic acid both in pure lipidic systems and in Golgi membranes, and that this reaction is essential for fission. Our results indicate a key role for lipid metabolic pathways in membrane fission.

Protein kinase C prevents oligodendrocyte differentiation: modulation of actin cytoskeleton and cognate polarized membrane traffic

In a previous study, we showed that activation of protein kinase C (PKC) prevents oligodendrocyte differentiation at the pro-oligodendrocyte stage. The present study was undertaken to identify downstream targets of PKC action in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells. Activation of PKC induced the predominant phosphorylation of an 80-kD protein, identified as myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate (MARCKS). Upon phosphorylation, MARCKS is translocated from the plasma membrane to the cytosol. Furthermore, PKC activation perturbed the organization of the actin cytoskeleton, causing a redistribution of actin filaments to the submembranous or cortical actin cytoskeleton. As a consequence, transport of a protein traffic marker, the vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein, from the trans-Golgi network to the plasma membrane becomes perturbed. The effect of disruption of the actin filament network by cytochalasin D perfectly matched the effect of PKC. These data thus favor the existence of a causal relationship between actin rearrangement and docking and/or fusion of proteins to the plasma membrane. Interestingly, neither in control cells nor in PKC-activated cells did another protein traffic marker, influenza hemagglutinin (HA), reach the cell surface. However, an eminent and specific accumulation of HA just underneath the plasma membrane became apparent upon PKC activation. Yet, this effect could not be simulated by cytochalasin D treatment. Therefore, these observations imply that although MARCKS represents a prominent PKC target site in regulating differentiation, another target involves the differential control of cognate polarized trafficking pathways, which are apparently operating in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells.

Relationship between phosphatidic acid level and regulation of protein transit in colonic epithelial cell line HT29-cl19A

Colonic epithelial HT29-cl19A cells are polarized and secrete proteins among which alpha(1)-antitrypsin represents about 95%. Secretion occurs via a constitutive pathway, so that the rates of secretion directly reflect the rates of protein transit. In this paper we have demonstrated that: 1) in resting cells phospholipase D (PLD) is implicated in the control of apical protein transit; 2) phorbol esters stimulate apical protein transit (stimulation factor 2.2), which is correlated with a PLD-catalyzed production of phosphatidic acid (PA) (2.45-fold increase); 3) the stimulation of cholinergic receptors by carbachol results in an increase (stimulation factor 1.45) of apical protein transit which is independent of protein kinase C and PLD activities, but related to PA formation (1.7-fold increase) via phospholipase(s) C and diacylglycerol kinase activation; 4) an elevation of the cAMP level enhances apical protein transit by a PA-independent mechanism; 5) a trans-Golgi network or post-trans-Golgi network step of the transit is the target for the regulatory events. In conclusion, we have shown that PA can be produced by two independent signaling pathways; whatever the pathway followed, a close relationship between the amount of PA and the level of secretion was observed.

Morphological changes in the Golgi complex correlate with actin cytoskeleton rearrangements

In this report we have studied the morphological changes of the Golgi complex (GC) that specifically accompany F-actin reorganizations. In starved rat RBL-2H3 tumor mast cells, the GC, that was visualized at immunofluorescence level with antibodies raised against the Golgi-resident proteins giantin, mannosidase II, or TGN-38, showed a compacted morphology with a supranuclear positioning. Concomitant to membrane ruffle formation induced by epidermal growth factor (EGF) or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), and stress fiber formation induced by lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), specific GC morphological changes were observed. When cells were stimulated with EGF or PMA, the compacted GC morphology was transformed into a reticular network that was extended towards the cell periphery. When cells were incubated with LPA, the GC acquired a characteristic ring-shaped morphology. Brefeldin A (BFA) did not affect the PMA- or LPA-induced membrane ruffling and stress fiber formation, respectively, indicating that actin rearrangements occurred independent of the presence of the GC. Upon BFA removal, the presence of PMA or LPA during the recovery process induced the GC to acquire the morphological appearance described above for each agent. Moreover, the PMA- but not the LPA-induced GC rearrangements were sensitive to the actin perturbing agents cytochalasin D and jasplakinolide. When cells were preincubated with the phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitors wortmannin or LY294002, the PMA-induced GC morphological changes were inhibited but not membrane ruffles. Finally, the PMA-induced increase in the post-Golgi transport of glycosaminoglycans to the cell surface was not altered by cytochalasin D or jasplakinolide. Altogether, these data suggest that: (1) the shape of the GC is influenced by the 3D arrangement of actin microfilaments; (2) PI3K regulates the association of the GC with actin microfilaments; and (3) actin microfilaments are not essential for the post-Golgi transport to the plasma membrane.

Morphological and biochemical analysis of the secretory pathway in melanoma cells with distinct metastatic potential

In this report, we have investigated whether alterations of the morphological and functional aspects of the biosecretory membrane system are associated with the metastatic potential of tumor cells. To this end, we have analyzed the morphology of the Golgi complex, the cytoskeleton organization and membrane trafficking steps of the secretory pathway in two human melanoma A375 cell line variants with low (A375-P) and high metastatic (A375-MM) potential. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that in A375-P cells, the Golgi complex showed a collapsed morphology. Conversely, in A375-MM cells, the Golgi complex presented a reticular and extended morphology. At the ultrastructural level, the Golgi complex of A375-P cells was fragmented and cisternae were swollen. When the cytoskeleton was analyzed, the microtubular network appeared normal in both cell variants, whereas actin stress fibers were largely absent in A375-P, but not in A375-MM cells. In addition, the F-actin content in A375-P cells was significantly lower than in A375-MM cells. These morphological differences in A375-P cells were accompanied by acceleration and an increase in the endoplasmic reticulum to Golgi and the trans-Golgi network to cell surface membrane transport, respectively. Our results indicate that in human A375 melanoma cells, metastatic potential correlates with a well-structured morphofunctional organization of the Golgi complex and actin cytoskeleton.

Lipid regulators of membrane traffic through the Golgi complex

Enzymes that modify phospholipids play necessary, but poorly understood, roles in constitutive membrane traffic. Local production of specific phosphoinositides is required for endocytosis and regulated exocytosis, and enzymes that produce and consume phosphoinositides are components of post-Golgi membrane vesicles. Both biochemical and genetic data indicate that regulation of the membrane content of phosphatidic acid, diacylglycerol and phosphoinositides is necessary for protein traffic from the Golgi complex. Evidence for a regulatory role for lipids earlier in the constitutive secretory pathway is more limited and controversial. Although the mechanisms that regulate traffic between the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi might be qualitatively different from those that control later membrane transport pathways, recent studies suggest that production of specific lipids is important for transport both into and out of the Golgi. As discussed in this article, one potential mechanism for the involvement of lipids is to control the GTPase cycle of a small GTP-binding protein, ARF (ADP-ribosylation factor).

Regulation of rat hepatocyte protein kinase C beta isoenzymes by the lipid peroxidation product 4-hydroxy-2,3-nonenal: A signaling pathway to modulate vesicular transport of glycoproteins

A major aldehydic end product of the peroxidation of arachidonic acid, 4-hydroxy-2,3-nonenal (HNE), has recently been considered for its potential involvement in a variety of cell functions. Here we report on the differential regulation of rat hepatocyte protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms by concentrations of HNE actually detectable in specific biological fluids or tissues. PKC betaI and, to a much greater extent, PKC betaII activities were markedly increased by 0.1 micromol/L HNE (final concentration in cell medium) whereas they were unaffected or even inhibited by 1 to 10 micromol/L HNE. On the contrary, the calcium independent PKC delta activity was inhibited by 0.1 micromol/L and increased by 1 and 10 micromol/L. Further, we show here that HNE-induced stimulation of PKC betaI and betaII activities, both in cytosolic and in membrane fractions, is paralleled by a marked stimulation of the anterograde transport of a lysosomal enzyme within the central vacuolar system. In fact, the treatment with 0.1 micromol/L HNE accelerated the PKC-dependent transport of lysosomal procathepsin D from the trans-Golgi network to the endosomal-lysosomal compartment and, in addition, increased the exocytosis of mature cathepsin D (CD) from these compartments. On the other hand, hepatocyte cotreatment with a selective inhibitor of classic PKCs prevented the aldehyde-induced activation of CD transport. These results support the possible involvement of HNE in the PKC-dependent regulation of the traffic of secretory glycoproteins, and point to remarkable implications of this aldehyde in the pathophysiology of various exocytic processes including hepatocyte lipoprotein secretion.

Identification of a new Pyk2 target protein with Arf-GAP activity

Protein tyrosine kinase Pyk2 is activated by a variety of G-protein-coupled receptors and by extracellular signals that elevate intracellular Ca2+ concentration. We have identified a new Pyk2 binding protein designated Pap. Pap is a multidomain protein composed of an N-terminal alpha-helical region with a coiled-coil motif, followed by a pleckstrin homology domain, an Arf-GAP domain, an ankyrin homology region, a proline-rich region, and a C-terminal SH3 domain. We demonstrate that Pap forms a stable complex with Pyk2 and that activation of Pyk2 leads to tyrosine phosphorylation of Pap in living cells. Immunofluorescence experiments demonstrate that Pap is localized in the Golgi apparatus and at the plasma membrane, where it is colocalized with Pyk2. In addition, in vitro recombinant Pap exhibits strong GTPase-activating protein (GAP) activity towards the small GTPases Arf1 and Arf5 and weak activity towards Arf6. Addition of recombinant Pap protein to Golgi preparations prevented Arf-dependent generation of post-Golgi vesicles in vitro. Moreover, overexpression of Pap in cultured cells reduced the constitutive secretion of a marker protein. We propose that Pap functions as a GAP for Arf and that Pyk2 may be involved in regulation of vesicular transport through its interaction with Pap.

The mechanism of facilitated cell membrane resealing

Disruption of the plasma membrane evokes an exocytotic response that is required for rapid membrane resealing. We show here in Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts that a second disruption at the same site reseals more rapidly than the initial wound. This facilitated response of resealing was inhibited by both low external Ca2+ concentration and specific protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors, bisindolylmaleimide I (BIS) and Go-6976. In addition, activation of PKC by phorbol ester facilitated the resealing of a first wound. BIS and Go-6976 suppressed the effect of phorbol ester on resealing rate. Fluorescent dye loss from a FM1-43 pre-labeled endocytotic compartment was used to investigate the relationship between exocytosis, resealing and the facilitation of resealing. Exocytosis of endocytotic compartments near the wounding site was correlated with successful resealing. The destaining did not occur when exocytosis and resealing were inhibited by low external Ca2+ concentration or by injected tetanus toxin. When the dye loaded cells were wounded twice, FM1-43 destaining at the second wound was less than at the first wound. Less destaining was also observed in cells pre-treated with phorbol ester, suggesting newly formed vesicles, which were FM1-43 unlabeled, were exocytosed in the resealing at repeated woundings. Facilitation was also blocked by brefeldin A (BFA), a fungal metabolite that inhibits vesicle formation at the Golgi apparatus. Lowering the temperature below 20 degrees C also blocked facilitation as expected from a block of Golgi function. BFA had no effect on the resealing rate of an initial wound. The facilitation of the resealing by phorbol ester was blocked by pre-treatment with BFA. These results suggest that at first wounding the cell used the endocytotic compartment to add membrane necessary for resealing. At a second wounding, PKC, activated by Ca2+ entry at the first wound, stimulated vesicle formation from the Golgi apparatus, resulting in more rapid resealing of the second membrane disruption. Since vesicle pools were implicated in both membrane resealing and facilitation of membrane resealing, we reasoned that artificial decreases in membrane surface tension would have the same result. Decreases in surface tension induced by the addition of a surfactant (Pluronic F68 NF) or cytochalasin D facilitated resealing at first wounding. Furthermore, Pluronic F68 NF restored resealing when exocytosis was blocked by tetanus toxin. These results suggest that membrane resealing requires a decrease in surface tension and under natural conditions this is provided by Ca2+-dependent exocytosis of new membrane near the site of disruption.

N-Ras induces alterations in Golgi complex architecture and in constitutive protein transport

Aberrant glycosylation of proteins and lipids is a common feature of many tumor cell types, and is often accompanied by alterations in membrane traffic and an anomalous localization of Golgi-resident proteins and glycans. These observations suggest that the Golgi complex is a key organelle for at least some of the functional changes associated with malignant transformation. To gain insight into this possibility, we have analyzed changes in the structure and function of the Golgi complex induced by the conditional expression of the transforming N-Ras(K61) mutant in the NRK cell line. A remarkable and specific effect associated with this N-Ras-induced transformation was a conspicuous rearrangement of the Golgi complex into a collapsed morphology. Ultrastructural and stereological analyses demonstrated that the Golgi complex was extensively fragmented. The collapse of the Golgi complex was also accompanied by a disruption of the actin cytoskeleton. Functionally, N-Ras-transformed KT8 cells showed an increase in the constitutive protein transport from the trans-Golgi network to the cell surface, and did not induce the appearance of aberrant cell surface glycans. The Golgi complex collapse, the actin disassembly, and the increased constitutive secretion were all partially inhibited by the phospholipase A2 inhibitor 4-bromophenylacyl bromide. The results thus suggest the involvement of the actin cytoskeleton in the shape of the Golgi complex, and intracellular phospholipase A2 in its architecture and secretory function.

Procollagen traverses the Golgi stack without leaving the lumen of cisternae: evidence for cisternal maturation

Newly synthesized procollagen type I (PC) assembles into 300 nm rigid, rod-like triple helices in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum. This oligomeric complex moves to the Golgi and forms large electron-dense aggregates. We have monitored the transport of PC along the secretory pathway. We show that PC moves across the Golgi stacks without ever leaving the lumen of the Golgi cisternae. During transport from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi, PC is found within tubular-saccular structures greater than 300 nm in length. Thus, supermolecular cargoes such as PC do not utilize the conventional vesicle-mediated transport to traverse the Golgi stacks. Our results imply that PC moves in the anterograde direction across the Golgi complex by a process involving progressive maturation of Golgi cisternae.

Short-Term and Long-Term Cytokine Release by Mouse Bone Marrow Mast Cells and the Differentiated KU-812 Cell Line Are Inhibited by Brefeldin A

Mast cells and basophils produce a wide range of cytokines, including large amounts of both IL-6 and granulocyte-macrophage CSF (GM-CSF). However, the route by which cytokines are secreted is poorly understood. In the current study, we used two inhibitors of vesicular transport, brefeldin A and monensin, to examine the routes of secretion of IL-6 and GM-CSF in the differentiated KU812 human cell line and cultured mouse bone marrow mast cells (mBMMC). Studies of cytokine production over 6 to 24 h demonstrated that IL-6 and GM-CSF release from both cell types were inhibited by brefeldin A (BFA) following activation with calcium ionophore, A23187. Monensin had similar inhibitory effects to that of BFA on the initial and ongoing IL-6 release from KU812 cells. In contrast, the amount of each cytokine remaining within the cells was significantly enhanced. Similar results were obtained following IgE-mediated activation of mBMMC. BFA significantly inhibited both the constitutive secretion of IL-6 and the immediate ionophore-induced increase in IL-6 release from KU812 cells at 20 min postactivation. However, treatment with these agents did not alter the release of histamine and β-hexaminidase from either mBMMC or KU812 cells. These studies suggest that both the initial 20-min release of IL-6 and secretion of IL-6 and GM-CSF over up to 24 h by mBMMC and differentiated KU-812 cells occur predominately through a vesicular transport-dependent mechanism, and that little, if any, IL-6 and GM-CSF is released through degranulation.

Mechanisms of inactivation of hepatocyte protein kinase C isoforms following acute ethanol treatment

Acute ethanol exposure of rat isolated hepatocytes leads to a significant decrease (-30%) in cytosolic enzymatic activity of classic protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms, while immunoreactive protein level measured by Western Blot remains unaffected. The inactivation of classic cytosolic isoforms appears dependent on the modification of the enzyme function, probably due to ethanol metabolism. In fact, pretreatment with 4-methylpyrazole (4MP), an inhibitor of alcohol dehydrogenase, fully prevented such damage. After ethanol treatment, a decrease of about 40% in both enzymatic activity and immunoreactive protein level of novel PKC isoforms was evident both in the soluble and particulate fractions. Even if 4MP cell pre-treatment afforded protection in this case too, the inhibitory action of ethanol on novel PKC hepatocyte isoforms involves a proteolytic mechanism as shown by Western Blot analysis. The reproduction of PKC inactivation by ethanol in hepatocyte lysate excluded a role of peroxisomal hydrogen peroxide in the pathogenesis of the damage investigated. This damage was not reduced by addition of catalase to the lysate model system.

Ethanol-induced effects on expression level, activity, and distribution of protein kinase C isoforms in rat liver Golgi apparatus

Acute ethanol administration induces significant modifications both in secretive and formative membranes of rat liver Golgi apparatus. The decrease in glycolipoprotein secretion and their retention into the hepatocyte contribute to the pathogenesis of alcohol-induced fatty liver. Molecular and cellular mechanisms behind the ethanol-induced injury of the liver secretory pathway are not yet completely defined. In this study on intact livers from ethanol-treated rats, the involvement of the Golgi compartment in the impairment of hepatic glycolipoprotein secretion has been correlated with changes in the expression level, subcellular distribution and enzymatic activity of protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms. Acute ethanol exposure determined a translocation of classic PKCs and delta isoform from the cytosol to cis and trans Golgi membranes, the site of glycolipoprotein retention in the hepatic cell. A marked stimulation of cytosolic epsilon PKC activity was observed throughout the period of treatment. The presence of activated PKC isozymes at the Golgi compartment of alcohol-treated rat livers may play a role in hepatic secretion and protein accumulation. Direct and indirect effects of ethanol consumption on PKC isozymes and Golgi function are discussed.

Calphostin C induces selective disassembly of the Golgi complex by a protein kinase C-independent mechanism

Intact cells incubated with calphostin C, an inhibitor of the regulatory domain of protein kinase C, showed fragmentation and dispersal of the Golgi complex by a light-dependent mechanism. At the ultrastructural level Golgi stacks were replaced by clusters of vesicles and short tubules that resembled the Golgi remnants present in control mitotic cells. Vesicle-mediated transport processes along both the exocytic and endocytic routes were also inhibited by calphostin C treatment. Golgi disassembly, however, was not due to protein kinase C inhibition since several inhibitors of the catalytic domain did not cause a similar effect. In contrast, pretreatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate partly protected the Golgi complex from disassembly by calphostin C. The in vitro effect was shown to be reversible, required both cytosol and ATP and it was inhibited by pretreatment of the Golgi membranes with trypsin but not with high salt. These results suggest the interaction of calphostin C with a structural Golgi protein containing a phorbol ester-binding domain and necessary for the stability of this organelle during interphase.

Signalling molecules and the regulation of intracellular transport

A variety of signalling molecules has been implicated over the past 8 years in the regulation of intracellular transport pathways. Those molecules include heterotrimeric GTP binding proteins, members of the protein kinase C family, and members of the Rho subfamily of small GTPases. Until recently, no common theme among the three classes of regulators was apparent. The finding that all three can influence the activity of phospholipase D (PLD), and the fact that members of the Arf subfamily of GTPases (with established roles in intracellular transport) are potent activators of PLD suggests the hypothesis that PLD is a focal point for integration of cellular responses to hormone signalling and for membrane homeostasis. Work during the past 2 years is beginning to uncover some transport pathways where PLD involvement is inferred. It is proposed that, if signalling is required to monitor and adjust transport rates to and from the various membrane organelles, the most economical way to achieve this would be to regulate recycling and allow the concentration of cargo receptors to determine forward transport.

PKA inhibitor, H-89, affects the intracellular transit of regulated secretory proteins in rat lacrimal glands

We tested the effect of H-89, a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, on the intracellular transit of the regulated secretory proteins in rat lacrimal glands. We show that H-89, by itself, induces the secretion of newly synthesized proteins trafficking in its presence but not of proteins already stored in the mature secretory granules. This secretion does not depend on the presence of extracellular Ca2+. The proteins released are identical to those secreted after cholinergic stimulation or under the action of the ionophore A-23187, but the secretion level is approximately 40% lower. The effect of H-89 seems to be due to PKA inhibition because other protein kinase inhibitors (calphostin C, chelerythrine, H-85) do not induce secretion. We further show that H-89 does not modify the rate of glycoprotein galactosylation but induces the secretion of newly galactosylated glycoproteins. Finally, we used a "20 degrees C block" procedure to show that H-89 affects a trans-Golgi network (TGN) or post-TGN step of the secretory pathway. Our results demonstrate that, in lacrimal cells, H-89 affects the intracellular trafficking of secretory proteins, suggesting a role for PKA in this process.

Protein kinase A activity is required for the budding of constitutive transport vesicles from the trans-Golgi network

We have examined the role played by protein kinase A (PKA) in vesicle-mediated protein transport from the trans-Golgi network (TGN) to the cell surface. In vivo this transport step was inhibited by inhibitors of PKA catalytic subunits (C-PKA) such as the compound known as H89 and a myristoylated form of the inhibitory peptide sequence contained in the thermostable PKA inhibitor. Inhibition by H89 occurred at an early stage during the transfer of vesicular stomatitis virus G glycoprotein from the TGN to the cell surface. Reversal from this inhibition correlated with a transient increase in the number of free coated vesicles in the Golgi area. Vesicle budding from the TGN was studied in vitro using vesicular stomatitis virus-infected, permeabilized cells. Addition to this assay of C-PKA stimulated vesicle release while it was suppressed by PKA inhibitory peptide, H89, and antibody against C-PKA. Furthermore, vesicle release was decreased when PKA-depleted cytosol was used and restored by addition of C-PKA. These results indicate a regulatory role for PKA activity in the production of constitutive transport vesicles from the TGN.

Role of NAD+ and ADP-ribosylation in the maintenance of the Golgi structure

We have investigated the role of the ADP- ribosylation induced by brefeldin A (BFA) in the mechanisms controlling the architecture of the Golgi complex. BFA causes the rapid disassembly of this organelle into a network of tubules, prevents the association of coatomer and other proteins to Golgi membranes, and stimulates the ADP-ribosylation of two cytosolic proteins of 38 and 50 kD (GAPDH and BARS-50; De Matteis, M.A., M. DiGirolamo, A. Colanzi, M. Pallas, G. Di Tullio, L.J. McDonald, J. Moss, G. Santini, S. Bannykh, D. Corda, and A. Luini. 1994. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 91:1114-1118; Di Girolamo, M., M.G. Silletta, M.A. De Matteis, A. Braca, A. Colanzi, D. Pawlak, M.M. Rasenick, A. Luini, and D. Corda. 1995. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 92:7065-7069). To study the role of ADP-ribosylation, this reaction was inhibited by depletion of NAD+ (the ADP-ribose donor) or by using selective pharmacological blockers in permeabilized cells. In NAD+-depleted cells and in the presence of dialized cytosol, BFA detached coat proteins from Golgi membranes with normal potency but failed to alter the organelle's structure. Readdition of NAD+ triggered Golgi disassembly by BFA. This effect of NAD+ was mimicked by the use of pre-ADP- ribosylated cytosol. The further addition of extracts enriched in native BARS-50 abolished the ability of ADP-ribosylated cytosol to support the effect of BFA. Pharmacological blockers of the BFA-dependent ADP-ribosylation (Weigert, R., A. Colanzi, A. Mironov, R. Buccione, C. Cericola, M.G. Sciulli, G. Santini, S. Flati, A. Fusella, J. Donaldson, M. DiGirolamo, D. Corda, M.A. De Matteis, and A. Luini. 1997. J. Biol. Chem. 272:14200-14207) prevented Golgi disassembly by BFA in permeabilized cells. These inhibitors became inactive in the presence of pre-ADP-ribosylated cytosol, and their activity was rescued by supplementing the cytosol with a native BARS-50-enriched fraction. These results indicate that ADP-ribosylation plays a role in the Golgi disassembling activity of BFA, and suggest that the ADP-ribosylated substrates are components of the machinery controlling the structure of the Golgi apparatus.

The coatomer protein beta'-COP, a selective binding protein (RACK) for protein kinase Cepsilon

Distinct subcellular localization of activated protein kinase C (PKC) isozymes is mediated by their binding to isozyme-specific RACKs (receptors for activated C-kinase). Our laboratory has previously isolated one such protein, RACK1, and demonstrated that this protein displays specificity for PKCbeta. We have recently shown that at least part of the PKCepsilon RACK-binding site on PKCepsilon lies within the unique V1 region of this isozyme (Johnson, J. A., Gray, M. O., Chen, C.-H., and Mochly-Rosen, D. (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271, 24962-24966). Here, we have used the PKCepsilon V1 region to clone a PKCepsilon-selective RACK, which was identified as the COPI coatomer protein, beta'-COP. Similar to RACK1, beta'-COP contains seven repeats of the WD40 motif and fulfills the criteria previously established for RACKs. Activated PKCepsilon colocalizes with beta'-COP in cardiac myocytes and binds to Golgi membranes in a beta'-COP-dependent manner. A role for PKC in control of secretion has been previously suggested, but this is the first report of direct protein/protein interaction of PKCepsilon with a protein involved in vesicular trafficking.