The peroxin Pex14p. cDNA cloning by functional complementation on a Chinese hamster ovary cell mutant, characterization, and functional analysis

Peroxisome biogenesis factor PEX14 is crucial for survival and fecundity of female brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål)

Peroxisomes are ubiquitous cellular organelles participating in a variety of critical metabolic reactions. PEX14 is an essential peroxin responsible for peroxisome biogenesis. In this study, we identified the human PEX14 homolog in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Hemiptera: Delphacidae). N. lugens PEX14 (NlPEX14) showed significant topological similarity to its human counterpart. It is expressed throughout all developmental stages, with the highest expression observed in adult insects. Down-regulation of NlPEX14 through injection of NlPEX14-specific double-strand RNA impaired nymphal development. Moreover, females subjected to dsNlPEX14 treatment exhibited a significantly reduced lifespan. Additionally, we found abnormal ovarian development and a significant decrease in the number of eggs laid in NlPEX14-downregulated females. Further experiments support that the shortening of lifespan and the decrease in female fecundity can be attributed, at least partially, to the accumulation of fatty acids and reduced expression of vitellogenin. Together, our study reveals an indispensable function of NlPEX14 for insect reproduction and establishes a causal connection between the phenotypes and peroxisome biogenesis, shedding light on the importance of peroxisomes in female fecundity.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with female breast cancer susceptibility in Chinese population

Breast cancer is a complex disease influenced by both external and internal factors, among which genetic factors play a critical role. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are major contributors to the heritability of breast cancer, and their frequencies vary across ethnic groups. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between 34 SNPs identified in previous genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and overall breast cancer risk, as well as breast cancer subtypes, in the Chinese female population. To accomplish this, we conducted an extensive association analysis using the high-throughput Sequenom MassARRAY® platform in a case-control study comprising 1848 breast cancer patients and 709 healthy controls. Our analysis, which utilized the SNPassoc package in R based on chi-squared (χ2) test and genetic model analysis, identified significant associations between breast cancer risk and SNP rs12493607 (TGFBR2, risk allele C, OR = 1.28 [1.11-1.47], P = 0.0005), as well as a less conservatively significant association with rs4784227 (CASC16, risk allele T, OR = 1.24 [1.08-1.42], P = 0.0017) and rs2046210 (ESR1, risk allele A, OR = 1.50 [1.16-1.95], P = 0.0016). Furthermore, our stratified analyses revealed that rs12493607 was significantly associated with invasive carcinoma, estrogen receptor (ER)-positive, progesterone receptor (PR)-positive, HER2-negative, and young (aged younger than 45) breast cancer. SNP rs4784227 and rs3803662 (CASC16) were associated with invasive carcinoma and ER-positive breast cancer, while rs2046210 was linked to ductal carcinoma in situ, ER-negative, PR-negative, HER2-positive, and elder (aged more than 45) breast cancers. SNPs rs10484919 (ESR1) and rs1038304 (CCDC170) showed links to HER2-positive breast cancer, and rs616488 (PEX14) with premenopausal breast cancer. In summary, our study shed light on the relationship between SNPs and breast cancer susceptibility within a vast Chinese cohort, supporting the development of polygenetic risk scores for the Chinese population. These findings provide valuable insights into the genetic basis of breast cancer and have important implications for risk prediction, early detection, and personalized treatment of this disease.

Good things come to those who bait: the peroxisomal docking complex

Peroxisomal integrity and function are highly dependent on its membrane and soluble (matrix) components. Matrix enzymes are imported post-translationally in a folded or even oligomeric state, via a still mysterious protein translocation mechanism. They are guided to peroxisomes via the Peroxisomal Targeting Signal (PTS) sequences which are recognized by specific cytosolic receptors, Pex5, Pex7 and Pex9. Subsequently, cargo-loaded receptors bind to the docking complex in an initial step, followed by channel formation, cargo-release, receptor-recycling and -quality control. The docking complexes of different species share Pex14 as their core component but differ in composition and oligomeric state of Pex14. Here we review and highlight the latest insights on the structure and function of the peroxisomal docking complex. We summarize differences between yeast and mammals and then we integrate this knowledge into our current understanding of the import machinery.

Analysis of Peroxisome Biogenesis by Phos-Tag SDS-PAGE

Phos-tag, a selective phosphate-binding molecule, and Phos-tag-based methodologies have been developed to investigate the phosphoproteome. In various analytical techniques using Phos-tag derivatives, phosphate-affinity electrophoresis using Phos-tag acrylamide, called Phos-tag SDS-PAGE, enables separation of phosphorylated proteins with a slower migration from non-phosphorylated proteins in polyacrylamide gels. The procedures for Phos-tag SDS-PAGE are largely common to those for conventional SDS-PAGE, thus being readily available for all laboratories. Phos-tag SDS-PAGE is widely applied to quantitative analysis of the overall phosphorylation state depending on the number and/or sites of the phosphate group. Phos-tag SDS-PAGE has also been introduced to the field of peroxisome study, including oxidative stress-induced and mitosis-specific phosphorylation of Pex14, a central component of the translocation machinery complex for peroxisomal matrix proteins. Here, we describe a practical protocol for Phos-tag SDS-PAGE and its application to peroxisome biogenesis research.

Insights into the Structure and Function of the Pex1/Pex6 AAA-ATPase in Peroxisome Homeostasis

The AAA-ATPases Pex1 and Pex6 are required for the formation and maintenance of peroxisomes, membrane-bound organelles that harbor enzymes for specialized metabolism. Together, Pex1 and Pex6 form a heterohexameric AAA-ATPase capable of unfolding substrate proteins via processive threading through a central pore. Here, we review the proposed roles for Pex1/Pex6 in peroxisome biogenesis and degradation, discussing how the unfolding of potential substrates contributes to peroxisome homeostasis. We also consider how advances in cryo-EM, computational structure prediction, and mechanisms of related ATPases are improving our understanding of how Pex1/Pex6 converts ATP hydrolysis into mechanical force. Since mutations in PEX1 and PEX6 cause the majority of known cases of peroxisome biogenesis disorders such as Zellweger syndrome, insights into Pex1/Pex6 structure and function are important for understanding peroxisomes in human health and disease.

Identification of a Homozygous PEX26 Mutation in a Heimler Syndrome Patient

This study aimed to identify the molecular genetic etiology of an 8-year-old boy with amelogenesis imperfecta in permanent dentition. Bilateral cochlear implants were placed due to sensorineural hearing loss, and there was no other family member with a similar phenotype. Peripheral blood samples were collected with the understanding and written consent of the participating family members. A constitutional chromosome study was performed for the proband. Genomic DNA was isolated, and whole exome sequencing was performed. A series of bioinformatic analyses were performed with the obtained paired-end sequencing reads, and the variants were filtered and annotated with dbSNP147. There was no abnormality in the constitutional chromosome study. Whole exome sequencing analysis with trio samples identified a homozygous mutation (c.506T>C, p. (Leu169Pro)) in the PEX26 gene. We verified “temperature sensitivity (ts)” of patient-derived Pex26-L169P by expression in pex26 CHO mutant ZP167 cells to determine the effect of the L169P mutation on Pex26 function. The L169P mutation causes a mild ts-cellular phenotype representing the decreased peroxisomal import of catalase. This study supports the finding that the recessive mutations in PEX26 are associated with Heimler syndrome and demonstrates the importance of an early and correct diagnosis.

Mitotic phosphorylation of Pex14p regulates peroxisomal import machinery

Peroxisomal matrix proteins are imported into peroxisomes via membrane-bound docking/translocation machinery. One central component of this machinery is Pex14p, a peroxisomal membrane protein involved in the docking of Pex5p, the receptor for peroxisome targeting signal type 1 (PTS1). Studies in several yeast species have shown that Pex14p is phosphorylated in vivo, whereas no function has been assigned to Pex14p phosphorylation in yeast and mammalian cells. Here, we investigated peroxisomal protein import and its dynamics in mitotic mammalian cells. In mitotically arrested cells, Pex14p is phosphorylated at Ser-232, resulting in a lower import efficiency of catalase, but not the majority of proteins including canonical PTS1 proteins. Conformational change induced by the mitotic phosphorylation of Pex14p more likely increases homomeric interacting affinity and suppresses topological change of its N-terminal part, thereby giving rise to the retardation of Pex5p export in mitotic cells. Taken together, these data show that mitotic phosphorylation of Pex14p and consequent suppression of catalase import are a mechanism of protecting DNA upon nuclear envelope breakdown at mitosis.

Systematic Identification of Regulators of Oxidative Stress Reveals Non-canonical Roles for Peroxisomal Import and the Pentose Phosphate Pathway

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play critical roles in metabolism and disease, yet a comprehensive analysis of the cellular response to oxidative stress is lacking. To systematically identify regulators of oxidative stress, we conducted genome-wide Cas9/CRISPR and shRNA screens. This revealed a detailed picture of diverse pathways that control oxidative stress response, ranging from the TCA cycle and DNA repair machineries to iron transport, trafficking, and metabolism. Paradoxically, disrupting the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) at the level of phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (PGD) protects cells against ROS. This dramatically alters metabolites in the PPP, consistent with rewiring of upper glycolysis to promote antioxidant production. In addition, disruption of peroxisomal import unexpectedly increases resistance to oxidative stress by altering the localization of catalase. Together, these studies provide insights into the roles of peroxisomal matrix import and the PPP in redox biology and represent a rich resource for understanding the cellular response to oxidative stress.

Towards the molecular architecture of the peroxisomal receptor docking complex

Import of yeast peroxisomal matrix proteins is initiated by cytosolic receptors, which specifically recognize and bind the respective cargo proteins. At the peroxisomal membrane, the cargo-loaded receptor interacts with the docking protein Pex14p that is tightly associated with Pex17p. Previous data suggest that this interaction triggers the formation of an import pore for further translocation of the cargo. The mechanistic principles, however, are unclear, mainly because structures of higher-order assemblies are still lacking. Here, using an integrative approach, we provide the structural characterization of the major components of the peroxisomal docking complex Pex14p/Pex17p, in a native bilayer environment, and reveal its subunit organization. Our data show that three copies of Pex14p and a single copy of Pex17p assemble to form a 20-nm rod-like particle. The different subunits are arranged in a parallel manner, showing interactions along their complete sequences and providing receptor binding sites on both membrane sides. The long rod facing the cytosol is mainly formed by the predicted coiled-coil domains of Pex14p and Pex17p, possibly providing the necessary structural support for the formation of the import pore. Further implications of Pex14p/Pex17p for formation of the peroxisomal translocon are discussed.

Mammalian Homologue NME3 of DYNAMO1 Regulates Peroxisome Division

Peroxisomes proliferate by sequential processes comprising elongation, constriction, and scission of peroxisomal membrane. It is known that the constriction step is mediated by a GTPase named dynamin-like protein 1 (DLP1) upon efficient loading of GTP. However, mechanism of fuelling GTP to DLP1 remains unknown in mammals. We earlier show that nucleoside diphosphate (NDP) kinase-like protein, termed dynamin-based ring motive-force organizer 1 (DYNAMO1), generates GTP for DLP1 in a red alga, Cyanidioschyzon merolae. In the present study, we identified that nucleoside diphosphate kinase 3 (NME3), a mammalian homologue of DYNAMO1, localizes to peroxisomes. Elongated peroxisomes were observed in cells with suppressed expression of NME3 and fibroblasts from a patient lacking NME3 due to the homozygous mutation at the initiation codon of NME3. Peroxisomes proliferated by elevation of NME3 upon silencing the expression of ATPase family AAA domain containing 1, ATAD1. In the wild-type cells expressing catalytically-inactive NME3, peroxisomes were elongated. These results suggest that NME3 plays an important role in peroxisome division in a manner dependent on its NDP kinase activity. Moreover, the impairment of peroxisome division reduces the level of ether-linked glycerophospholipids, ethanolamine plasmalogens, implying the physiological importance of regulation of peroxisome morphology.

The coiled-coil domain of glycosomal membrane-associated Leishmania donovani PEX14: cloning, overexpression, purification and preliminary crystallographic analysis

The glycosomal membrane-associated Leishmania donovani protein PEX14, which plays a crucial role in protein import from the cytosol to the glycosomal matrix, consists of three domains: an N-terminal domain where the signalling molecule binds, a transmembrane domain and an 84-residue coiled-coil domain (CC) that is responsible for oligomerization. CCs are versatile domains that participate in a variety of functions including supramolecular assembly, cellular signalling and transport. Recombinant PEX14 CC was cloned, overexpressed, affinity-purified with in-column thrombin cleavage and further purified by size-exclusion chromatography. Crystals that diffracted to 1.98 Å resolution were obtained from a condition consisting of 1.4 M sodium citrate tribasic dihydrate, 0.1 M HEPES buffer pH 7.5. The crystals belonged to the monoclinic space group C2, with unit-cell parameters a = 143.98, b = 32.62, c = 95.62 Å, β = 94.68°. Structure determination and characterization are in progress.

Distinct Functions of Acyl/Alkyl Dihydroxyacetonephosphate Reductase in Peroxisomes and Endoplasmic Reticulum

Plasmalogens are a subclass of ether glycerophospholipids characterized by a vinyl-ether bond at the sn-1 position of the glycerol backbone. Plasmalogen biosynthesis is initiated in peroxisomes. At the third step of plasmalogen synthesis, alkyl-dihydroxyacetonephosphate (DHAP) is enzymatically reduced to 1-alkyl-sn-glycero-3-phospate by acyl/alkyl DHAP reductase (ADHAPR), whose activity is found in both peroxisomes and microsomes. We herein show that knockdown of ADHAPR in HeLa cells reduced the synthesis of ethanolamine plasmalogen (PlsEtn), similar to the Chinese hamster ovary cell mutant FAA.K1B deficient in ADHAPR activity. Endogenous ADHAPR and ectopically expressed FLAG-tagged ADHAPR were localized to peroxisomes and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) as a type I integral membrane protein in HeLa cells. ADHAPR targets to peroxisomes via a Pex19p-dependent class I pathway. In addition, it is also inserted into the ER via the SRP-dependent mechanism. The ADHAPR mutant lacking the N-terminal domain preferentially targets to the ER, restoring the reduced level of PlsEtn synthesis in FAA.K1B cell. In contrast, the expression of full-length ADHAPR in the mutant cells elevates the synthesis of phosphatidylethanolamine, but not PlsEtn. Taken together, these results suggest that the third step of plasmalogen synthesis is mediated by ER-localized ADHAPR.

The peroxisome counteracts oxidative stresses by suppressing catalase import via Pex14 phosphorylation

Most of peroxisomal matrix proteins including a hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-decomposing enzyme, catalase, are imported in a peroxisome-targeting signal type-1 (PTS1)-dependent manner. However, little is known about regulation of the membrane-bound protein import machinery. Here, we report that Pex14, a central component of the protein translocation complex in peroxisomal membrane, is phosphorylated in response to oxidative stresses such as H₂O₂ in mammalian cells. The H₂O₂-induced phosphorylation of Pex14 at Ser232 suppresses peroxisomal import of catalase in vivo and selectively impairs in vitro the interaction of catalase with the Pex14-Pex5 complex. A phosphomimetic mutant Pex14-S232D elevates the level of cytosolic catalase, but not canonical PTS1-proteins, conferring higher cell resistance to H₂O₂. We thus suggest that the H₂O₂-induced phosphorylation of Pex14 spatiotemporally regulates peroxisomal import of catalase, functioning in counteracting action against oxidative stress by the increase of cytosolic catalase.

A peroxisome deficiency-induced reductive cytosol state up-regulates the brain-derived neurotrophic factor pathway

The peroxisome is a subcellular organelle that functions in essential metabolic pathways, including biosynthesis of plasmalogens, fatty acid β-oxidation of very-long-chain fatty acids, and degradation of hydrogen peroxide. Peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs) manifest as severe dysfunction in multiple organs, including the central nervous system (CNS), but the pathogenic mechanisms in PBDs are largely unknown. Because CNS integrity is coordinately established and maintained by neural cell interactions, we here investigated whether cell-cell communication is impaired and responsible for the neurological defects associated with PBDs. Results from a noncontact co-culture system consisting of primary hippocampal neurons with glial cells revealed that a peroxisome-deficient astrocytic cell line secretes increased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), resulting in axonal branching of the neurons. Of note, the BDNF expression in astrocytes was not affected by defects in plasmalogen biosynthesis and peroxisomal fatty acid β-oxidation in the astrocytes. Instead, we found that cytosolic reductive states caused by a mislocalized catalase in the peroxisome-deficient cells induce the elevation in BDNF secretion. Our results suggest that peroxisome deficiency dysregulates neuronal axogenesis by causing a cytosolic reductive state in astrocytes. We conclude that astrocytic peroxisomes regulate BDNF expression and thereby support neuronal integrity and function.

A Mouse Model System to Study Peroxisomal Roles in Neurodegeneration of Peroxisome Biogenesis Disorders

Fourteen PEX genes are currently identified as genes responsible for peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs). Patients with PBDs manifest as neurodegenerative symptoms such as neuronal migration defect and malformation of the cerebellum. To address molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of PBDs, mouse models for the PBDs have been generated by targeted disruption of Pex genes. Pathological phenotypes and metabolic abnormalities in Pex-knockout mice well resemble those of the patients with PBDs. The mice with tissue- or cell type-specific inactivation of Pex genes have also been established by using a Cre-loxP system. The genetically modified mice reveal that pathological phenotypes of PBDs are mediated by interorgan and intercellular communications. Despite the illustrations of detailed pathological phenotypes in the mutant mice, mechanistic insights into pathogenesis of PBDs are still underway. In this chapter, we overview the phenotypes of Pex-inactivated mice and the current understanding of the pathogenesis underlying PBDs.

Peroxisome Biogenesis Disorders

Peroxisomes are presented in all eukaryotic cells and play essential roles in many of lipid metabolic pathways, including β-oxidation of fatty acids and synthesis of ether-linked glycerophospholipids, such as plasmalogens. Impaired peroxisome biogenesis, including defects of membrane assembly, import of peroxisomal matrix proteins, and division of peroxisome, causes peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs). Fourteen complementation groups of PBDs are found, and their complementing genes termed PEXs are isolated. Several new mutations in peroxins from patients with mild PBD phenotype or patients with phenotypes unrelated to the commonly observed impairments of PBD patients are found by next-generation sequencing. Exploring a dysfunctional step(s) caused by the mutation is important for unveiling the pathogenesis of novel mutation by means of cellular and biochemical analyses.

Plasmalogen mediates integration of adherens junction

Ether glycerolipids, plasmalogens are found in various mammalian cells and tissues. However, physiological role of plasmalogens in epithelial cells remains unknown. We herein show that synthesis of ethanolamine-containing plasmalogens, plasmenylethanolamine (PlsEtn), is deficient in MCF7 cells, an epithelial cell line, with severely reduced expression of alkyl-dihydroxyacetonephosphate synthase (ADAPS), the second enzyme in the PlsEtn biosynthesis. Moreover, expression of ADAPS or supplementation of PlsEtn containing C18-alkenyl residue delays the migration of MCF7 cells as compared to that mock-treated MCF7 and C16-alkenyl-PlsEtn-supplemented MCF7 cells. Localization of E-cadherin to cell-cell junctions is highly augmented in cells containing C18-alkenyl-PlsEtn. Together, these results suggest that PlsEtn containing C18-alkenyl residue plays a distinct role in the integrity of E-cadherin-mediated adherens junction.

The type-2 peroxisomal targeting signal

The type-2 peroxisomal targeting signal (PTS2) is one of two peptide motifs destining soluble proteins for peroxisomes. This signal acts as amphiphilic α-helix exposing the side chains of all conserved residues to the same side. PTS2 motifs are recognized by a bipartite protein complex consisting of the receptor PEX7 and a co-receptor. Cargo-loaded receptor complexes are translocated across the peroxisomal membrane by a transient pore and inside peroxisomes, cargo proteins are released and processed in many, but not all species. The components of the bipartite receptor are re-exported into the cytosol by a ubiquitin-mediated and ATP-driven export mechanism. Structurally, PTS2 motifs resemble other N-terminal targeting signals, whereas the functional relation to the second peroxisomal targeting signal (PTS1) is unclear. Although only a few PTS2-carrying proteins are known in humans, subjects lacking a functional import mechanism for these proteins suffer from the severe inherited disease rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata.

Peroxisome biogenesis deficiency attenuates the BDNF-TrkB pathway-mediated development of the cerebellum

Peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs) manifest as neurological deficits in the central nervous system, including neuronal migration defects and abnormal cerebellum development. However, the mechanisms underlying pathogenesis remain enigmatic. Here, to investigate how peroxisome deficiency causes neurological defects of PBDs, we established a new PBD model mouse defective in peroxisome assembly factor Pex14p, termed Pex14 ^ΔC/ΔC mouse. Pex14 ^ΔC/ΔC mouse manifests a severe symptom such as disorganization of cortical laminar structure and dies shortly after birth, although peroxisomal biogenesis and metabolism are partially defective. The Pex14 ^ΔC/ΔC mouse also shows malformation of the cerebellum including the impaired dendritic development of Purkinje cells. Moreover, extracellular signal-regulated kinase and AKT signaling are attenuated in this mutant mouse by an elevated level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) together with the enhanced expression of TrkB-T1, a dominant-negative isoform of the BDNF receptor. Our results suggest that dysregulation of the BDNF-TrkB pathway, an essential signaling for cerebellar morphogenesis, gives rise to the pathogenesis of the cerebellum in PBDs.

A newly isolated Pex7-binding, atypical PTS2 protein P7BP2 is a novel dynein-type AAA+ protein

A newly isolated binding protein of peroxisomal targeting signal type 2 (PTS2) receptor Pex7, termed P7BP2, is transported into peroxisomes by binding to the longer isoform of Pex5p, Pex5pL, via Pex7p. The binding to Pex7p and peroxisomal localization of P7BP2 depends on the cleavable PTS2 in the N-terminal region, suggesting that P7BP2 is a new PTS2 protein. By search on human database, three AAA+ domains are found in the N-terminal half of P7BP2. Protein sequence alignment and motif search reveal that in the C-terminal region P7BP2 contains additional structural domains featuring weak but sufficient homology to AAA+ domain. P7BP2 behaves as a monomer in gel-filtration chromatography and the single molecule observed under atomic force microscope shapes a disc-like ring. Collectively, these results suggest that P7BP2 is a novel dynein-type AAA+ family protein, of which domains are arranged into a pseudo-hexameric ring structure.

Membrane topologies of PEX13 and PEX14 provide new insights on the mechanism of protein import into peroxisomes

PEX13 and PEX14 are two core components of the so-called peroxisomal docking/translocation module, the transmembrane hydrophilic channel through which newly synthesized peroxisomal proteins are translocated into the organelle matrix. The two proteins interact with each other and with PEX5, the peroxisomal matrix protein shuttling receptor, through relatively well characterized domains. However, the topologies of these membrane proteins are still poorly defined. Here, we subjected proteoliposomes containing PEX13 or PEX14 and purified rat liver peroxisomes to protease-protection assays and analyzed the protected protein fragments by mass spectrometry, Edman degradation and western blotting using antibodies directed to specific domains of the proteins. Our results indicate that PEX14 is a bona fide intrinsic membrane protein with a N_in -C_out topology, and that PEX13 adopts a N_out -C_in topology, thus exposing its carboxy-terminal Src homology 3 [SH3] domain into the organelle matrix. These results reconcile several enigmatic findings previously reported on PEX13 and PEX14 and provide new insights into the organization of the peroxisomal protein import machinery. ENZYMES: Trypsin, EC3.4.21.4; Proteinase K, EC3.4.21.64; Tobacco etch virus protease, EC3.4.22.44.

The cytosolic peroxisome-targeting signal (PTS)-receptors, Pex7p and Pex5pL, are sufficient to transport PTS2 proteins to peroxisomes

Proteins harboring peroxisome-targeting signal type-2 (PTS2) are recognized in the cytosol by mobile PTS2 receptor Pex7p and associate with a longer isoform Pex5pL of the PTS1 receptor. Trimeric PTS2 protein-Pex7p-Pex5pL complexes are translocated to peroxisomes in mammalian cells. However, it remains unclear whether Pex5pL and Pex7p are sufficient cytosolic components in transporting of PTS2 proteins to peroxisomes. Here, we construct a semi-intact cell import system to define the cytosolic components required for the peroxisomal PTS2 protein import and show that the PTS2 pre-import complexes comprising Pex7p, Pex5p, and Hsc70 isolated from the cytosol of pex14 Chinese hamster ovary cell mutant ZP161 is import-competent. PTS2 reporter proteins are transported to peroxisomes by recombinant Pex7p and Pex5pL in semi-intact cells devoid of the cytosol. Furthermore, PTS2 proteins are translocated to peroxisomes in the presence of a non-hydrolyzable ATP analogue, adenylyl imidodiphosphate, and N-ethylmaleimide, suggesting that ATP-dependent chaperones including Hsc70 are dispensable for PTS2 protein import. Taken together, we suggest that Pex7p and Pex5pL are the minimal cytosolic factors in the transport of PTS2 proteins to peroxisomes.

The hydrophobic region of the Leishmania peroxin 14: requirements for association with a glycosome mimetic membrane

Protein import into the Leishmania glycosome requires docking of the cargo-loaded peroxin 5 (PEX5) receptor to the peroxin 14 (PEX14) bound to the glycosome surface. To examine the LdPEX14–membrane interaction, we purified L. donovani promastigote glycosomes and determined the phospholipid and fatty acid composition. These membranes contained predominately phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, and phosphatidylglycerol (PG) modified primarily with C18 and C22 unsaturated fatty acid. Using large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) with a lipid composition mimicking the glycosomal membrane in combination with sucrose density centrifugation and fluorescence-activated cell sorting technique, we established that the LdPEX14 membrane-binding activity was dependent on a predicted transmembrane helix found within residues 149–179. Monolayer experiments showed that the incorporation of PG and phospholipids with unsaturated fatty acids, which increase membrane fluidity and favor a liquid expanded phase, facilitated the penetration of LdPEX14 into biological membranes. Moreover, we demonstrated that the binding of LdPEX5 receptor or LdPEX5–PTS1 receptor–cargo complex was contingent on the presence of LdPEX14 at the surface of LUVs.

New splicing variants of mitochondrial Rho GTPase-1 (Miro1) transport peroxisomes

The mechanisms underlying microtubule-dependent long-distance movement of peroxisomes in mammalian cells are unclear. Okumoto et al. identify splicing variants of human mitochondrial Rho GTPase-1 (Miro1) that localize to peroxisomes and that link these organelles to microtubule-dependent transport complexes including TRAK2.

Microtubule-dependent long-distance movement of peroxisomes occurs in mammalian cells. However, its molecular mechanisms remain undefined. In this study, we identified three distinct splicing variants of human mitochondrial Rho GTPase-1 (Miro1), each containing amino acid sequence insertions 1 (named Miro1-var2), 2 (Miro1-var3), and both 1 and 2 (Miro1-var4), respectively, at upstream of the transmembrane domain. Miro1-var4 and Miro1-var2 are localized to peroxisomes in a manner dependent on the insertion 1 that is recognized by the cytosolic receptor Pex19p. Exogenous expression of Miro1-var4 induces accumulation of peroxisomes at the cell periphery and augments long-range movement of peroxisomes along microtubules. Depletion of all Miro1 variants by knocking down MIRO1 suppresses the long-distance movement of peroxisomes. Such abrogated movement is restored by reexpression of peroxisomal Miro1 variants. Collectively, our findings identify for the first time peroxisome-localized Miro1 variants as adapter proteins that link peroxisomes to the microtubule-dependent transport complexes including TRAK2 in the intracellular translocation of peroxisomes in mammalian cells.

Protein transport into peroxisomes: Knowns and unknowns

Peroxisomal matrix proteins are synthesized on cytosolic ribosomes and rapidly transported into the organelle by a complex machinery. The data gathered in recent years suggest that this machinery operates through a syringe-like mechanism, in which the shuttling receptor PEX5 - the "plunger" - pushes a newly synthesized protein all the way through a peroxisomal transmembrane protein complex - the "barrel" - into the matrix of the organelle. Notably, insertion of cargo-loaded receptor into the "barrel" is an ATP-independent process, whereas extraction of the receptor back into the cytosol requires its monoubiquitination and the action of ATP-dependent mechanoenzymes. Here, we review the main data behind this model.

The peroxisomal matrix protein translocon is a large cavity-forming protein assembly into which PEX5 protein enters to release its cargo

A remarkable property of the machinery for import of peroxisomal matrix proteins is that it can accept already folded proteins as substrates. This import involves binding of newly synthesized proteins by cytosolic peroxisomal biogenesis factor 5 (PEX5) followed by insertion of the PEX5-cargo complex into the peroxisomal membrane at the docking/translocation module (DTM). However, how these processes occur remains largely unknown. Here, we used truncated PEX5 molecules to probe the DTM architecture. We found that the DTM can accommodate a larger number of truncated PEX5 molecules comprising amino acid residues 1-197 than full-length PEX5 molecules. A shorter PEX5 version (PEX5(1-125)) still interacted correctly with the DTM; however, this species was largely accessible to exogenously added proteinase K, suggesting that this protease can access the DTM occupied by a small PEX5 protein. Interestingly, the PEX5(1-125)-DTM interaction was inhibited by a polypeptide comprising PEX5 residues 138-639. Apparently, the DTM can recruit soluble PEX5 through interactions with different PEX5 domains, suggesting that the PEX5-DTM interactions are to some degree fuzzy. Finally, we found that the interaction between PEX5 and PEX14, a major DTM component, is stable at pH 11.5. Thus, there is no reason to assume that the hitherto intriguing resistance of DTM-bound PEX5 to alkaline extraction reflects its direct contact with the peroxisomal lipid bilayer. Collectively, these results suggest that the DTM is best described as a large cavity-forming protein assembly into which cytosolic PEX5 can enter to release its cargo.

Peroxisome biogenesis: a novel inducible PEX19 splicing variant is involved in early stages of peroxisome proliferation

Pex19p harbouring a prenylation CAAX box functions as a chaperone and transporter for peroxisomal membrane proteins in membrane assembly. By functional phenotype-complementation assay using a pex19 Chinese hamster ovary cell mutant ZP119, we herein cloned a rat cDNA encoding a protein similar to Pex19p, but with a C-terminal hydrophobic segment in place of the CAAX box region. The transcript of this gene was highly induced by treatment of rats with a peroxisome proliferator, clofibrate, hence termed PEX19i, while the other three less prominently inducible PEX19 variants encoded authentic Pex19p but differed in the length of 3' non-coding region. Pex19pi restored peroxisomes in ZP119 with slightly lower efficiency than Pex19p, showing apparently weaker interaction with Pex11pβ essential for peroxisome proliferation. However, the C-terminal region of Pex19p was not essential for the association of Pex19p with peroxisomal membrane and interaction with membrane assembly factors, Pex3p and Pex16p. Non-prenylated Pex19p interacted with a membrane protein cargo, Pex14p, but more weakly than Pex19pi and the farnesylated Pex19p. Thus, PEX19i most likely plays important roles involving the membrane formation at early stages, in prompt response to peroxisome proliferation. Similar types of PEX19 mRNA variants were also elevated in mouse regenerating liver.

Assessing Pexophagy in Mammalian Cells

In mammalian cells several hundred peroxisomes are maintained by a balance between the biogenesis and turnover by peroxisome homeostasis. Pexophagy, a form of autophagy specific for peroxisomes, is the main pathway for peroxisome degradation, but molecular mechanisms of mammalian pexophagy are largely unknown. This is due to the lack of well-established pexophagy-inducing conditions in mammalian cells. Recently, several conditions that induce pexophagy were described for mammalian cells, involving ubiquitin and adaptor proteins of autophagy. In this chapter, we describe the protocol for Pex3-induced pexophagy, the more readable and highly inducible pexophagy condition in mammalian cells.

Localization of Protein Kinase NDR2 to Peroxisomes and Its Role in Ciliogenesis

Nuclear Dbf2-related (NDR) kinases, comprising NDR1 and NDR2, are serine/threonine kinases that play crucial roles in the control of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and morphogenesis. We recently showed that NDR2, but not NDR1, is involved in primary cilium formation; however, the mechanism underlying their functional difference in ciliogenesis is unknown. To address this issue, we examined their subcellular localization. Despite their close sequence similarity, NDR2 exhibited punctate localization in the cytoplasm, whereas NDR1 was diffusely distributed within the cell. Notably, NDR2 puncta mostly co-localized with the peroxisome marker proteins, catalase and CFP-SKL (cyan fluorescent protein carrying the C-terminal typical peroxisome-targeting signal type-1 (PTS1) sequence, Ser-Lys-Leu). NDR2 contains the PTS1-like sequence, Gly-Lys-Leu, at the C-terminal end, whereas the C-terminal end of NDR1 is Ala-Lys. An NDR2 mutant lacking the C-terminal Leu, NDR2(ΔL), exhibited almost diffuse distribution in cells. Additionally, NDR2, but neither NDR1 nor NDR2(ΔL), bound to the PTS1 receptor Pex5p. Together, these findings indicate that NDR2 localizes to the peroxisome by using the C-terminal GKL sequence. Intriguingly, topology analysis of NDR2 suggests that NDR2 is exposed to the cytosolic surface of the peroxisome. The expression of wild-type NDR2, but not NDR2(ΔL), recovered the suppressive effect of NDR2 knockdown on ciliogenesis. Furthermore, knockdown of peroxisome biogenesis factor genes (PEX1 or PEX3) partially suppressed ciliogenesis. These results suggest that the peroxisomal localization of NDR2 is implicated in its function to promote primary cilium formation.

Peroxisomal Membrane and Matrix Protein Import Using a Semi-Intact Mammalian Cell System

Peroxisomes are essential intracellular organelles that catalyze a number of essential metabolic pathways including β-oxidation of very long chain fatty acids, synthesis of plasmalogen, bile acids, and generation and degradation of hydrogen peroxide. These peroxisomal functions are accomplished by strictly and spatiotemporally regulated compartmentalization of the enzymes catalyzing these reactions. Defects in peroxisomal protein import result in inherited peroxisome biogenesis disorders in humans. Peroxisomal matrix and membrane proteins are synthesized on free ribosomes and transported to peroxisomes in a manner dependent on their specific targeting signals and their receptors. Peroxisomal protein import can be analyzed using a semi-intact assay system, in which targeting efficiency is readily monitored by immunofluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, cytosolic factors required for peroxisomal protein import can be manipulated, suggesting that the semi-intact system is a useful and convenient system to uncover the molecular mechanisms of peroxisomal protein import.

Deficiency of a Retinal Dystrophy Protein, Acyl-CoA Binding Domain-containing 5 (ACBD5), Impairs Peroxisomal β-Oxidation of Very-long-chain Fatty Acids

Acyl-CoA binding domain-containing 5 (ACBD5) is a peroxisomal protein that carries an acyl-CoA binding domain (ACBD) at its N-terminal region. The recent identification of a mutation in the ACBD5 gene in patients with a syndromic form of retinal dystrophy highlights the physiological importance of ACBD5 in humans. However, the underlying pathogenic mechanisms and the precise function of ACBD5 remain unclear. We herein report that ACBD5 is a peroxisomal tail-anchored membrane protein exposing its ACBD to the cytosol. Using patient-derived fibroblasts and ACBD5 knock-out HeLa cells generated via genome editing, we demonstrate that ACBD5 deficiency causes a moderate but significant defect in peroxisomal β-oxidation of very-long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) and elevates the level of cellular phospholipids containing VLCFAs without affecting peroxisome biogenesis, including the import of membrane and matrix proteins. Both the N-terminal ACBD and peroxisomal localization of ACBD5 are prerequisite for efficient VLCFA β-oxidation in peroxisomes. Furthermore, ACBD5 preferentially binds very-long-chain fatty acyl-CoAs (VLC-CoAs). Together, these results suggest a direct role of ACBD5 in peroxisomal VLCFA β-oxidation. Based on our findings, we propose that ACBD5 captures VLC-CoAs on the cytosolic side of the peroxisomal membrane so that the transport of VLC-CoAs into peroxisomes and subsequent β-oxidation thereof can proceed efficiently. Our study reclassifies ACBD5-related phenotype as a novel peroxisomal disorder.

Assembly of Peroxisomal Membrane Proteins via the Direct Pex19p-Pex3p Pathway

Correct targeting of peroxisomal membrane proteins (PMPs) is essential for the formation and maintenance of functional peroxisomes. Activities of Pex19p to interact with PMPs on one hand and Pex3p on the other, including formation of ternary complexes between Pex19p, PMP and Pex3p, strongly support posttranslational translocation of PMPs via the Pex19p- and Pex3p-dependent direct pathway, termed the class I pathway. However, it remains elusive whether Pex19p-PMP complexes are indeed capable of being imported into peroxisomal membranes through the interaction between Pex19p and Pex3p. We resolve this issue by investigating the targeting process of several topologically distinct PMPs, including multimembrane spanning PMPs. We show here that Pex19p forms cytosolic complexes with PMPs and directly translocates them to peroxisomes. Using a semi-intact mammalian cell-based import assay system, we prove that PMPs in the cytosolic complexes are imported into peroxisomes via the interaction between cargo-loaded Pex19p and Pex3p. Furthermore, we demonstrate for the first time that peroxisomal targeting of ATAD1, an N-terminally signal-anchored protein that resides on both mitochondria and peroxisomes, is also achieved through the Pex19p- and Pex3p-dependent class I pathway. Together, our results suggest that translocation of PMPs via the class I pathway is a common event in mammalian cells.

Peroxisome biogenesis and human peroxisome-deficiency disorders

Peroxisome is a single-membrane-bounded ubiquitous organelle containing a hundred different enzymes that catalyze various metabolic pathways such as β-oxidation of very long-chain fatty acids and synthesis of plasmalogens. To investigate peroxisome biogenesis and human peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs) including Zellweger syndrome, more than a dozen different complementation groups of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell mutants impaired in peroxisome biogenesis are isolated as a model experimental system. By taking advantage of rapid functional complementation assay of the CHO cell mutants, successful cloning of PEX genes encoding peroxins required for peroxisome assembly invaluably contributed to the accomplishment of cloning of pathogenic genes responsible for PBDs. Peroxins are divided into three groups: 1) peroxins including Pex3p, Pex16p and Pex19p, are responsible for peroxisome membrane biogenesis via Pex19p- and Pex3p-dependent class I and Pex19p- and Pex16p-dependent class II pathways; 2) peroxins that function in matrix protein import; 3) those such as Pex11pβ are involved in peroxisome division where DLP1, Mff, and Fis1 coordinately function.

Pex11mediates peroxisomal proliferation by promoting deformation of the lipid membrane

Pex11p family proteins are key players in peroxisomal fission, but their molecular mechanisms remains mostly unknown. In the present study, overexpression of Pex11pβ caused substantial vesiculation of peroxisomes in mammalian cells. This vesicle formation was dependent on dynamin-like protein 1 (DLP1) and mitochondrial fission factor (Mff), as knockdown of these proteins diminished peroxisomal fission after Pex11pβ overexpression. The fission-deficient peroxisomes exhibited an elongated morphology, and peroxisomal marker proteins, such as Pex14p or matrix proteins harboring peroxisomal targeting signal 1, were discernible in a segmented staining pattern, like beads on a string. Endogenous Pex11pβ was also distributed a striped pattern, but which was not coincide with Pex14p and PTS1 matrix proteins. Altered morphology of the lipid membrane was observed when recombinant Pex11p proteins were introduced into proteo-liposomes. Constriction of proteo-liposomes was observed under confocal microscopy and electron microscopy, and the reconstituted Pex11pβ protein localized to the membrane constriction site. Introducing point mutations into the N-terminal amphiphathic helix of Pex11pβ strongly reduced peroxisomal fission, and decreased the oligomer formation. These results suggest that Pex11p contributes to the morphogenesis of the peroxisomal membrane, which is required for subsequent fission by DLP1.

CUL4A-DDB1-Rbx1 E3 ligase controls the quality of the PTS2 receptor Pex7p

Pex7p is the cytosolic receptor for peroxisomal matrix proteins harbouring PTS2 (peroxisome-targeting signal type-2). Mutations in the PEX7 gene cause RCDP (rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata) type 1, a distinct PTS2-import-defective phenotype of peroxisome biogenesis disorders. The mechanisms by which the protein level and quality of Pex7p are controlled remain largely unknown. In the present study we show that dysfunctional Pex7p, including mutants from RCDP patients, is degraded by a ubiquitin-dependent proteasomal pathway involving the CRL4A (Cullin4A-RING ubiquitin ligase) complex. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the degradation of dysfunctional Pex7p is essential for maintaining normal PTS2 import, thereby suggesting that CRL4A functions as an E3 ligase in the quality control of Pex7p. Our results define a mechanism underlying Pex7p homoeostasis and highlight its importance for regulating PTS2 import. These findings may lead to a new approach to Pex7p-based therapies for the treatment of peroxisome biogenesis disorders such as RCDP.

Peroxin Pex14p is the key component for coordinated autophagic degradation of mammalian peroxisomes by direct binding to LC3-II

Pexophagy can be experimentally induced in mammalian cells by removing the culture serum. Pex14p, a peroxisomal membrane protein essential for matrix protein import in docking of soluble receptor Pex5p, is involved in the mammalian autophagic degradation of peroxisomes and interacts with the lipidated form of LC3, termed LC3-II, an essential factor for autophagosome formation, under the starvation condition in CHO-K1 cells. However, molecular mechanisms underlying the Pex14p-LC3-II interaction remain largely unknown. To verify whether Pex14p directly binds LC3-II, we reconstituted an in vitro conjugation system for synthesis of LC3-II. We show here that Pex14p directly interacts with LC3-II via the transmembrane domain of Pex14p. Pex5p competitively inhibited this interaction, implying that Pex14p preferentially binds to Pex5p under the nutrient-rich condition. Moreover, a Pex5p mutant defective in PTS1-protein import lost its affinity for Pex14p under the condition of nutrient deprivation, thereby more likely explaining why Pex14p prefers to interact with LC3-II under the starvation condition in vivo. Together, these results suggest that Pex14p is a unique factor that functions in the dual processes in peroxisomal biogenesis and degradation with the coordination of Pex5p in response to the environmental changes.

AAA peroxins and their recruiter Pex26p modulate the interactions of peroxins involved in peroxisomal protein import

Pex1p and Pex6p are required for the relocation of the import receptor Pex5p from the peroxisomal membrane to the cytosol. We herein show that mammalian Pex26p directly binds to Pex14p, the initial docking receptor of Pex5p, and interacts with Pex5p via Pex14p. The binding affinity of Pex26p to Pex14p is altered by Pex5p. Further evidence suggests that the N-terminal region in Pex26p acts as a scaffold protein to recruit Pex14p·Pex5p complex together with Pex1p·Pex6p complexes on peroxisomes. Pex26p binding to Pex14p was suppressed by overexpression of Pex1p and Pex6p in an ATP-dependent manner, whereas Pex14p was not competed out by Pex1p and Pex6p from Pex26p mutant defective in peroxisomal matrix protein import. These results suggested that peroxisome biogenesis requires Pex1p- and Pex6p-regulated dissociation of Pex14p from Pex26p. Pex1p homo-oligomer directly binds to Pex5p as assessed by a surface plasmon resonance-based assay. Moreover, cytosolic Pex1p is likely to maintain the functional oligomer of Pex5p. Taken together, in the peroxisomal protein import, AAA peroxins modulate the interaction between Pex26p and Pex14p on peroxisome membrane as well as Pex5p oligomer in the cytosol.

The membrane peroxin PEX3 induces peroxisome-ubiquitination-linked pexophagy

Peroxisomes are degraded by a selective type of autophagy known as pexophagy. Several different types of pexophagy have been reported in mammalian cells. However, the mechanisms underlying how peroxisomes are recognized by autophagy-related machinery remain elusive. PEX3 is a peroxisomal membrane protein (PMP) that functions in the import of PMPs into the peroxisomal membrane and has been shown to interact with pexophagic receptor proteins during pexophagy in yeast. Thus, PEX3 is important not only for peroxisome biogenesis, but also for peroxisome degradation. However, whether PEX3 is involved in the degradation of peroxisomes in mammalian cells is unclear. Here, we report that high levels of PEX3 expression induce pexophagy. In PEX3-loaded cells, peroxisomes are ubiquitinated, clustered, and degraded in lysosomes. Peroxisome targeting of PEX3 is essential for the initial step of this degradation pathway. The degradation of peroxisomes is inhibited by treatment with autophagy inhibitors or siRNA against NBR1, which encodes an autophagic receptor protein. These results indicate that ubiquitin- and NBR1-mediated pexophagy is induced by increased expression of PEX3 in mammalian cells. In addition, another autophagic receptor protein, SQSTM1/p62, is required only for the clustering of peroxisomes. Expression of a PEX3 mutant with substitution of all lysine and cysteine residues by arginine and alanine, respectively, also induces peroxisome ubiquitination and degradation, hence suggesting that ubiquitination of PEX3 is dispensable for pexophagy and an endogenous, unidentified peroxisomal protein is ubiquitinated on the peroxisomal membrane.

Mild reduction of plasmalogens causes rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata: functional characterization of a novel mutation

Rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata (RCDP) is an autosomal recessive disorder due to the deficiency in ether lipid synthesis. RCDP type 1, the most prominent type, is caused by the dysfunction of the receptor of peroxisome targeting signal type 2, Pex7 (peroxisomal biogenesis factor 7), and the rest of the patients, RCDP types 2 and 3, have defects in peroxisomal enzymes catalyzing the initial two steps of alkyl-phospholipid synthesis, glyceronephosphate O-acyltransferase and alkylglycerone phosphate synthase (Agps). We herein investigated defects of two patients with RCDP type 3. Patient 1 had a novel missense mutation, T1533G, resulting in the I511M substitution in Agps. The plasmalogen level was mildly reduced, whereas the protein level and peroxisomal localization of Agps-I511M in fibroblasts were normal as in the control fibroblasts. Structure prediction analysis suggested that the mutated residue was located in the helix α15 on the surface of V-shaped active site tunnel in Agps, likely accounting for the mild defects of plasmalogen synthesis. These results strongly suggest that an individual with mildly affected level of plasmalogen synthesis develops RCDP. In fibroblasts from patient 2, the expression of AGPS mRNA and Agps protein was severely affected, thereby giving rise to the strong reduction of plasmalogen synthesis.

Distinct modes of ubiquitination of peroxisome-targeting signal type 1 (PTS1) receptor Pex5p regulate PTS1 protein import

Peroxisome targeting signal type-1 (PTS1) receptor, Pex5p, is a key player in peroxisomal matrix protein import. Pex5p recognizes PTS1 cargoes in the cytosol, targets peroxisomes, translocates across the membrane, unloads the cargoes, and shuttles back to the cytosol. Ubiquitination of Pex5p at a conserved cysteine is required for the exit from peroxisomes. However, any potential ubiquitin ligase (E3) remains unidentified in mammals. Here, we establish an in vitro ubiquitination assay system and demonstrate that RING finger Pex10p functions as an E3 with an E2, UbcH5C. The E3 activity of Pex10p is essential for its peroxisome-restoring activity, being enhanced by another RING peroxin, Pex12p. The Pex10p·Pex12p complex catalyzes monoubiquitination of Pex5p at one of multiple lysine residues in vitro, following the dissociation of Pex5p from Pex14p and the PTS1 cargo. Several lines of evidence with lysine-to-arginine mutants of Pex5p demonstrate that Pex10p RING E3-mediated ubiquitination of Pex5p is required for its efficient export from peroxisomes to the cytosol and peroxisomal matrix protein import. RING peroxins are required for both modes of Pex5p ubiquitination, thus playing a pivotal role in Pex5p shuttling.

Mff functions with Pex11pβ and DLP1 in peroxisomal fission

Peroxisomal division comprises three steps: elongation, constriction, and fission. Translocation of dynamin-like protein 1 (DLP1), a member of the large GTPase family, from the cytosol to peroxisomes is a prerequisite for membrane fission; however, the molecular machinery for peroxisomal targeting of DLP1 remains unclear. This study investigated whether mitochondrial fission factor (Mff), which targets DLP1 to mitochondria, may also recruit DLP1 to peroxisomes. Results show that endogenous Mff is localized to peroxisomes, especially at the membrane-constricted regions of elongated peroxisomes, in addition to mitochondria. Knockdown of MFF abrogates the fission stage of peroxisomal division and is associated with failure to recruit DLP1 to peroxisomes, while ectopic expression of MFF increases the peroxisomal targeting of DLP1. Co-expression of MFF and PEX11β, the latter being a key player in peroxisomal elongation, increases peroxisome abundance. Overexpression of MFF also increases the interaction between DLP1 and Pex11pβ, which knockdown of MFF, but not Fis1, abolishes. Moreover, results show that Pex11pβ interacts with Mff in a DLP1-dependent manner. In conclusion, Mff contributes to the peroxisomal targeting of DLP1 and plays a key role in the fission of the peroxisomal membrane by acting in concert with Pex11pβ and DLP1.

Tail-anchored PEX26 targets peroxisomes via a PEX19-dependent and TRC40-independent class I pathway

Tail-anchored (TA) proteins are anchored into cellular membranes by a single transmembrane domain (TMD) close to the C terminus. Although the targeting of TA proteins to peroxisomes is dependent on PEX19, the mechanistic details of PEX19-dependent targeting and the signal that directs TA proteins to peroxisomes have remained elusive, particularly in mammals. The present study shows that PEX19 formed a complex with the peroxisomal TA protein PEX26 in the cytosol and translocated it directly to peroxisomes by interacting with the peroxisomal membrane protein PEX3. Unlike in yeast, the adenosine triphosphatase TRC40, which delivers TA proteins to the endoplasmic reticulum, was dispensable for the peroxisomal targeting of PEX26. Moreover, the basic amino acids within the luminal domain of PEX26 were essential for binding to PEX19 and thereby for peroxisomal targeting. Finally, our results suggest that a TMD that escapes capture by TRC40 and is followed by a highly basic luminal domain directs TA proteins to peroxisomes via the PEX19-dependent route.

System to quantify the import of peroxisomal matrix proteins by fluorescence intensity

Fourteen distinct peroxins are essential for peroxisome biogenesis in mammals, of which ten are involved in the import of matrix proteins into peroxisomes. Peroxisomal matrix protein import is regulated by various cellular factors; however, the mechanisms underlying this regulation are poorly understood. This is primarily because no quantitative detection method with high resolution is available to study the import of peroxisomal matrix proteins. Here, we developed a monitoring system that uses a fluorescent reporter that is stabilized in peroxisomes but is degraded in the cytosol. An FK506 binding protein 12 variant, termed destabilization domain (DD), is rapidly and constitutively degraded by proteasomes when expressed in mammalian cells. DD is reversibly protected by the addition of a specific synthetic ligand. In the absence of the ligand, a reporter molecule, enhanced GFP (EGFP) fused with DD and peroxisomal targeting signal 1 (DD-EGFP-PTS1), is largely degraded in the cytosol. By contrast, in the presence of the ligand, the reporter is stabilized and translocates into peroxisomes. Upon withdrawal of the ligand, the reporter in peroxisomes remains intact, whereas that in the cytosol is rapidly degraded. Thus, peroxisomal protein import can be readily quantified by measuring the fluorescence intensity of whole cells.

Pex5p stabilizes Pex14p: a study using a newly isolated pex5 CHO cell mutant, ZPEG101

Pex5p [PTS (peroxisome-targeting signal) type 1 receptor] plays an essential role in peroxisomal matrix protein import. In the present study, we isolated a novel PEX5-deficient CHO (Chinese-hamster ovary) cell mutant, termed ZPEG101, showing typical peroxisomal import defects of both PTS1 and PTS2 proteins. ZPEG101 is distinct from other known pex5 CHO mutants in its Pex5p expression. An undetectable level of Pex5p in ZPEG101 results in unstable Pex14p, which is due to inefficient translocation to the peroxisomal membrane. All of the mutant phenotypes of ZPEG101 are restored by expression of wild-type Pex5pL, a longer form of Pex5p, suggesting a role for Pex5p in sustaining the levels of Pex14p in addition to peroxisomal matrix protein import. Complementation analysis using various Pex5p mutants revealed that in the seven pentapeptide WXXXF/Y motifs in Pex5pL, known as the multiple binding sites for Pex14p, the fifth motif is an auxiliary binding site for Pex14p and is required for Pex14p stability. Furthermore, we found that Pex5p-Pex13p interaction is essential for the import of PTS1 proteins as well as catalase, but not for that of PTS2 proteins. Therefore ZPEG101 with no Pex5p would be a useful tool for investigating Pex5p function and delineating the mechanisms underlying peroxisomal matrix protein import.

Docosahexaenoic acid mediates peroxisomal elongation, a prerequisite for peroxisome division

Peroxisome division is regulated by several factors, termed fission factors, as well as the conditions of the cellular environment. Over the past decade, the idea of metabolic control of peroxisomal morphogenesis has been postulated, but remains largely undefined to date. In the current study, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3) was identified as an inducer of peroxisome division. In fibroblasts isolated from patients that carry defects in peroxisomal fatty acid β-oxidation, peroxisomes are much less abundant than normal cells. Treatment of these patient fibroblasts with DHA induced the proliferation of peroxisomes to the level seen in normal fibroblasts. DHA-induced peroxisomal proliferation was abrogated by treatment with a small inhibitory RNA (siRNA) targeting dynamin-like protein 1 and with dynasore, an inhibitor of dynamin-like protein 1, which suggested that DHA stimulates peroxisome division. DHA augmented the hyper-oligomerization of Pex11pβ and the formation of Pex11pβ-enriched regions on elongated peroxisomes. Time-lapse imaging analysis of peroxisomal morphogenesis revealed a sequence of steps involved in peroxisome division, including elongation in one direction followed by peroxisomal fission. DHA enhanced peroxisomal division in a microtubule-independent manner. These results suggest that DHA is a crucial signal for peroxisomal elongation, a prerequisite for subsequent fission and peroxisome division.

AWP1/ZFAND6 functions in Pex5 export by interacting with cys-monoubiquitinated Pex5 and Pex6 AAA ATPase

During biogenesis of the peroxisome, a subcellular organelle, the peroxisomal-targeting signal 1 (PTS1) receptor Pex5 functions as a shuttling receptor for PTS1-containing peroxisomal matrix proteins. However, the precise mechanism of receptor shuttling between peroxisomes and cytosol remains elusive despite the identification of numerous peroxins involved in this process. Herein, a new factor was isolated by a combination of biochemical fractionation and an in vitro Pex5 export assay, and was identified as AWP1/ZFAND6, a ubiquitin-binding NF-κB modulator. In the in vitro Pex5 export assay, recombinant AWP1 stimulated Pex5 export and an anti-AWP1 antibody interfered with Pex5 export. AWP1 interacted with Pex6 AAA ATPase, but not with Pex1-Pex6 complexes. Preferential binding of AWP1 to the cysteine-ubiquitinated form of Pex5 rather than to unmodified Pex5 was mediated by the AWP1 A20 zinc-finger domain. Inhibition of AWP1 by RNA interference had a significant effect on PTS1-protein import into peroxisomes. Furthermore, in AWP1 knock-down cells, Pex5 stability was decreased, similar to fibroblasts from patients defective in Pex1, Pex6 and Pex26, all of which are required for Pex5 export. Taken together, these results identify AWP1 as a novel cofactor of Pex6 involved in the regulation of Pex5 export during peroxisome biogenesis.