Characterization of a novel giant scaffolding protein, CG-NAP, that anchors multiple signaling enzymes to centrosome and the golgi apparatus

Exploring AKAPs in visual signaling

The complex nature of the retina demands well-organized signaling to uphold signal accuracy and avoid interference, a critical aspect in handling a variety of visual stimuli. A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs), known for binding protein kinase A (PKA), contribute to the specificity and efficiency of retinal signaling. They play multifaceted roles in various retinal cell types, influencing photoreceptor sensitivity, neurotransmitter release in bipolar cells, and the integration of visual information in ganglion cells. AKAPs like AKAP79/150 and AKAP95 exhibit distinct subcellular localizations, impacting synaptic transmission and receptor sensitivity in photoreceptors and bipolar cells. Furthermore, AKAPs are involved in neuroprotective mechanisms and axonal degeneration, particularly in retinal ganglion cells. In particular, AKAP6 coordinates stress-specific signaling and promotes neuroprotection following optic nerve injury. As our review underscores the therapeutic potential of targeting AKAP signaling complexes for retinal neuroprotection and enhancement, it acknowledges challenges in developing selective drugs that target complex protein-protein interactions. Overall, this exploration of AKAPs provides valuable insights into the intricacies of retinal signaling, offering a foundation for understanding and potentially addressing retinal disorders.

An A-Kinase Anchoring Protein (ACBD3) Coordinates Traffic-Induced PKA Activation At The Golgi

KDEL receptor (KDELR) is a key protein that recycles escaped ER resident proteins from the Golgi apparatus back to the ER and maintains a dynamic balance between these two organelles in the early secretory pathway. Studies have shown that this retrograde transport pathway is partly regulated by two KDELR-interacting proteins, Acyl-CoA-binding domain-containing 3 (ACBD3), and cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA). However, whether Golgi-localized ACBD3, which was first discovered as a PKA-anchoring protein in mitochondria, directly interacts with PKA at the Golgi and coordinates its signaling in Golgi-to-ER traffic has remained unclear. In this study, we showed that the GOLD domain of ACBD3 directly interacts with the regulatory subunit II (RII) of PKA and effectively recruits PKA holoenzyme to the Golgi. Forward trafficking of proteins from the ER triggers activation of PKA by releasing the catalytic subunit from RII. Furthermore, we determined that depletion of ACBD3 reduces the Golgi fraction of RII, resulting in moderate, but constitutive activation of PKA and KDELR retrograde transport, independent of cargo influx from the ER. Taken together, these data demonstrate that ACBD3 coordinates the protein secretory pathway at the Golgi by facilitating KDELR/PKA-containing protein complex formation.

Golgi organization is a determinant of stem cell function in the small intestine

Cell-to-cell signalling between niche and stem cells regulates tissue regeneration. While the identity of many mediating factors is known, it is largely unknown whether stem cells optimize their receptiveness to niche signals according to the niche organization. Here, we show that Lgr5+ small intestinal stem cells (ISCs) regulate the morphology and orientation of their secretory apparatus to match the niche architecture, and to increase transport efficiency of niche signal receptors. Unlike the progenitor cells lacking lateral niche contacts, ISCs orient Golgi apparatus laterally towards Paneth cells of the epithelial niche, and divide Golgi into multiple stacks reflecting the number of Paneth cell contacts. Stem cells with a higher number of lateral Golgi transported Epidermal growth factor receptor (Egfr) with a higher efficiency than cells with one Golgi. The lateral Golgi orientation and enhanced Egfr transport required A-kinase anchor protein 9 (Akap9), and was necessary for normal regenerative capacity in vitro . Moreover, reduced Akap9 in aged ISCs renders ISCs insensitive to niche-dependent modulation of Golgi stack number and transport efficiency. Our results reveal stem cell-specific Golgi complex configuration that facilitates efficient niche signal reception and tissue regeneration, which is compromised in the aged epithelium.

The baseless mutant links protein phosphatase 2A with basal cell identity in the brown alga Ectocarpus

The first mitotic division of the initial cell is a key event in all multicellular organisms and is associated with the establishment of major developmental axes and cell fates. The brown alga Ectocarpus has a haploid-diploid life cycle that involves the development of two multicellular generations: the sporophyte and the gametophyte. Each generation deploys a distinct developmental programme autonomously from an initial cell, the first cell division of which sets up the future body pattern. Here, we show that mutations in the BASELESS (BAS) gene result in multiple cellular defects during the first cell division and subsequent failure to produce basal structures during both generations. BAS encodes a type B″ regulatory subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), and transcriptomic analysis identified potential effector genes that may be involved in determining basal cell fate. The bas mutant phenotype is very similar to that observed in distag (dis) mutants, which lack a functional Tubulin-binding co-factor Cd1 (TBCCd1) protein, indicating that TBCCd1 and PP2A are two essential components of the cellular machinery that regulates the first cell division and mediates basal cell fate determination.

Flow goes forward and cells step backward: endothelial migration

Systemic and pulmonary circulations constitute a complex organ that serves multiple important biological functions. Consequently, any pathological processing affecting the vasculature can have profound systemic ramifications. Endothelial and smooth muscle are the two principal cell types composing blood vessels. Critically, endothelial proliferation and migration are central to the formation and expansion of the vasculature both during embryonic development and in adult tissues. Endothelial populations are quite heterogeneous and are both vasculature type- and organ-specific. There are profound molecular, functional, and phenotypic differences between arterial, venular and capillary endothelial cells and endothelial cells in different organs. Given this endothelial cell population diversity, it has been challenging to determine the origin of endothelial cells responsible for the angiogenic expansion of the vasculature. Recent technical advances, such as precise cell fate mapping, time-lapse imaging, genome editing, and single-cell RNA sequencing, have shed new light on the role of venous endothelial cells in angiogenesis under both normal and pathological conditions. Emerging data indicate that venous endothelial cells are unique in their ability to serve as the primary source of endothelial cellular mass during both developmental and pathological angiogenesis. Here, we review recent studies that have improved our understanding of angiogenesis and suggest an updated model of this process.

Cells that line the inside of veins possess a unique ability to grow new blood vessels and a better understanding of these cells could lead to new treatments for cancer, autoimmunity and other diseases associated with abnormal blood vessel formation. Michael Simons and colleagues from Yale University School of Medicine in New Haven, USA, review the attributes of venous endothelial cells, such as their unique ability to proliferate and migrate against blood flow, and then to form new intricate networks of minute blood vessels, in response to appropriate signals. The authors discuss emerging evidence implicating these cells in a variety of diseases, and suggest that drugs aimed at modulating the molecular function or migratory activities of venous endothelial cells could be used to correct abnormal blood vessel expansion.

Reconstitution of muscle cell microtubule organization in vitro

Skeletal muscle differentiation occurs as muscle precursor cells (myoblasts) elongate and fuse to form multinucleated syncytial myotubes in which the highly-organized actomyosin sarcomeres of muscle fibers assemble. Although less well characterized, the microtubule cytoskeleton also undergoes dramatic rearrangement during myogenesis. The centrosome-nucleated microtubule array found in myoblasts is lost as the nuclear membrane acquires microtubule nucleating activity and microtubules emerge from multiple sites in the cell, eventually rearranging into a grid-like pattern in myotubes. In order to characterize perinuclear microtubule organization using a biochemically tractable system, we isolated nuclei from mouse C2C12 skeletal muscle cells during the course of differentiation and incubated them in cytoplasmic extracts prepared from eggs of the frog Xenopus laevis. Whereas centrosomes associated with myoblast nuclei gave rise to radial microtubule arrays in extracts, myotube nuclei produced a sun-like pattern with microtubules transiently nucleating from the entire nuclear envelope. Perinuclear microtubule growth was suppressed by inhibition of Aurora A kinase or by degradation of RNA, treatments that also inhibited microtubule growth from sperm centrosomes. Myotube nuclei displayed microtubule motor-based movements leading to their separation, as occurs in myotubes. This in vitro assay therefore recapitulates key features of microtubule organization and nuclear movement observed during muscle cell differentiation. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Microtubule-associated proteins promote microtubule generation in the absence of γ-tubulin in human colon cancer cells

The γ-tubulin complex acts as the predominant microtubule (MT) nucleator that initiates MT formation and is therefore an essential factor for cell proliferation. Nonetheless, cellular MTs are formed after experimental depletion of the γ-tubulin complex, suggesting that cells possess other factors that drive MT nucleation. Here, by combining gene knockout, auxin-inducible degron, RNA interference, MT depolymerization/regrowth assay, and live microscopy, we identified four microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs), ch-TOG, CLASP1, CAMSAPs, and TPX2, which are involved in γ-tubulin-independent MT generation in human colon cancer cells. In the mitotic MT regrowth assay, nucleated MTs organized noncentriolar MT organizing centers (ncMTOCs) in the absence of γ-tubulin. Depletion of CLASP1 or TPX2 substantially delayed ncMTOC formation, suggesting that these proteins might promote MT nucleation in the absence of γ-tubulin. In contrast, depletion of ch-TOG or CAMSAPs did not affect the timing of ncMTOC appearance. CLASP1 also accelerates γ-tubulin-independent MT regrowth during interphase. Thus, MT generation can be promoted by MAPs without the γ-tubulin template.

Cyclical phosphorylation of LRAP35a and CLASP2 by GSK3β and CK1δ regulates EB1-dependent MT dynamics in cell migration

Mammalian cell cytoskeletal reorganization for efficient directional movement requires tight coordination of actomyosin and microtubule networks. In this study, we show that LRAP35a potentiates microtubule stabilization by promoting CLASP2/EB1 interaction besides its complex formation with MRCK/MYO18A for retrograde actin flow. The alternate regulation of these two networks by LRAP35a is tightly regulated by a series of phosphorylation events that dictated its specificity. Sequential phosphorylation of LRAP35a by Protein Kinase A (PKA) and Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β (GSK3β) initiates the association of LRAP35a with CLASP2, while subsequent binding and further phosphorylation by Casein Kinase 1δ (CK1δ) induce their dissociation, which facilitates LRAP35a/MRCK association in driving lamellar actomyosin flow. Importantly, microtubule dynamics is directly moderated by CK1δ activity on CLASP2 to regulate GSK3β phosphorylation of the SxIP motifs that blocks EB1 binding, an event countered by LRAP35a interaction and its competition for CK1δ activity. Overall this study reveals an essential role for LRAP35a in coordinating lamellar contractility and microtubule polarization in cell migration.

Centriole and Golgi microtubule nucleation are dispensable for the migration of human neutrophil-like cells

Neutrophils migrate in response to chemoattractants to mediate host defense. Chemoattractants drive rapid intracellular cytoskeletal rearrangements including the radiation of microtubules from the microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) toward the rear of polarized neutrophils. Microtubules regulate neutrophil polarity and motility, but little is known about the specific role of MTOCs. To characterize the role of MTOCs on neutrophil motility, we depleted centrioles in a well-established neutrophil-like cell line. Surprisingly, both chemical and genetic centriole depletion increased neutrophil speed and chemotactic motility, suggesting an inhibitory role for centrioles during directed migration. We also found that depletion of both centrioles and GM130-mediated Golgi microtubule nucleation did not impair neutrophil directed migration. Taken together, our findings demonstrate an inhibitory role for centrioles and a resilient MTOC system in motile human neutrophil-like cells.

Local cyclic adenosine monophosphate signalling cascades-Roles and targets in chronic kidney disease

The molecular mechanisms underlying chronic kidney disease (CKD) are poorly understood and treatment options are limited, a situation underpinning the need for elucidating the causative molecular mechanisms and for identifying innovative treatment options. It is emerging that cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signalling occurs in defined cellular compartments within nanometre dimensions in processes whose dysregulation is associated with CKD. cAMP compartmentalization is tightly controlled by a specific set of proteins, including A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) and phosphodiesterases (PDEs). AKAPs such as AKAP18, AKAP220, AKAP-Lbc and STUB1, and PDE4 coordinate arginine-vasopressin (AVP)-induced water reabsorption by collecting duct principal cells. However, hyperactivation of the AVP system is associated with kidney damage and CKD. Podocyte injury involves aberrant AKAP signalling. cAMP signalling in immune cells can be local and slow the progression of inflammatory processes typical for CKD. A major risk factor of CKD is hypertension. cAMP directs the release of the blood pressure regulator, renin, from juxtaglomerular cells, and plays a role in Na⁺ reabsorption through ENaC, NKCC2 and NCC in the kidney. Mutations in the cAMP hydrolysing PDE3A that cause lowering of cAMP lead to hypertension. Another major risk factor of CKD is diabetes mellitus. AKAP18 and AKAP150 and several PDEs are involved in insulin release. Despite the increasing amount of data, an understanding of functions of compartmentalized cAMP signalling with relevance for CKD is fragmentary. Uncovering functions will improve the understanding of physiological processes and identification of disease-relevant aberrations may guide towards new therapeutic concepts for the treatment of CKD.

Subcellular Organization of the cAMP Signaling Pathway

The field of cAMP signaling is witnessing exciting developments with the recognition that cAMP is compartmentalized and that spatial regulation of cAMP is critical for faithful signal coding. This realization has changed our understanding of cAMP signaling from a model in which cAMP connects a receptor at the plasma membrane to an intracellular effector in a linear pathway to a model in which cAMP signals propagate within a complex network of alternative branches and the specific functional outcome strictly depends on local regulation of cAMP levels and on selective activation of a limited number of branches within the network. In this review, we cover some of the early studies and summarize more recent evidence supporting the model of compartmentalized cAMP signaling, and we discuss how this knowledge is starting to provide original mechanistic insight into cell physiology and a novel framework for the identification of disease mechanisms that potentially opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions.

Molecular Mechanisms of Sex-Related Differences in Arthritis and Associated Pain

Clinical conditions leading to chronic pain show important sex-related differences in the prevalence, severity, and degree of functional disability. Decades of epidemiological and clinical studies have demonstrated that women are more sensitive to pain than men. Arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA), is much more prevalent in females and accounts for the majority of pain arising from musculoskeletal conditions. It is therefore important to understand the mechanisms governing sex-dependent differences in chronic pain, including arthritis pain. However, research into the mechanisms underlying the sex-related differences in arthritis-induced pain is still in its infancy due to the bias in biomedical research performed largely in male subjects and animals. In this review, we discuss current advances in both clinical and preclinical research regarding sex-related differences in the development or severity of arthritis and associated pain. In addition, sex-related differences in biological and molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of arthritis pain, elucidated based on clinical and preclinical findings, are reviewed.

The PP2A subunit PR130 is a key regulator of cell development and oncogenic transformation

Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a major serine/threonine phosphatase. This enzyme is involved in a plethora of cellular processes, including apoptosis, autophagy, cell proliferation, and DNA repair. Remarkably, PP2A can act as a context-dependent tumor suppressor or promoter. Active PP2A complexes consist of structural (PP2A-A), regulatory (PP2A-B), and catalytic (PP2A-C) subunits. The regulatory subunits define the substrate specificity and the subcellular localization of the holoenzyme. Here we condense the increasing evidence that the PP2A B-type subunit PR130 is a critical regulator of cell identity and oncogenic transformation. We summarize knowledge on the biological functions of PR130 in normal and transformed cells, targets of the PP2A-PR130 complex, and how diverse extra- and intracellular stimuli control the expression and activity of PR130. We additionally review the impact of PP2A-PR130 on cardiac functions, neuronal processes, and anti-viral defense and how this might affect cancer development and therapy.

Principal Postulates of Centrosomal Biology. Version 2020

The centrosome, which consists of two centrioles surrounded by pericentriolar material, is a unique structure that has retained its main features in organisms of various taxonomic groups from unicellular algae to mammals over one billion years of evolution. In addition to the most noticeable function of organizing the microtubule system in mitosis and interphase, the centrosome performs many other cell functions. In particular, centrioles are the basis for the formation of sensitive primary cilia and motile cilia and flagella. Another principal function of centrosomes is the concentration in one place of regulatory proteins responsible for the cell's progression along the cell cycle. Despite the existing exceptions, the functioning of the centrosome is subject to general principles, which are discussed in this review.

CG-NAP/Kinase Interactions Fine-Tune T Cell Functions

CG-NAP, also known as AKAP450, is an anchoring/adaptor protein that streamlines signal transduction in various cell types by localizing signaling proteins and enzymes with their substrates. Great efforts are being devoted to elucidating functional roles of this protein and associated macromolecular signaling complex. Increasing understanding of pathways involved in regulating T lymphocytes suggests that CG-NAP can facilitate dynamic interactions between kinases and their substrates and thus fine-tune T cell motility and effector functions. As a result, new binding partners of CG-NAP are continually being uncovered. Here, we review recent advances in CG-NAP research, focusing on its interactions with kinases in T cells with an emphasis on the possible role of this anchoring protein as a target for therapeutic intervention in immune-mediated diseases.

The Golgi apparatus and cell polarity: Roles of the cytoskeleton, the Golgi matrix, and Golgi membranes

Membrane trafficking plays a crucial role in cell polarity by directing lipids and proteins to specific subcellular locations in the cell and sustaining a polarized state. The Golgi apparatus, the master organizer of membrane trafficking, can be subdivided into three layers that play different mechanical roles: a cytoskeletal layer, the so-called Golgi matrix, and the Golgi membranes. First, the outer regions of the Golgi apparatus interact with cytoskeletal elements, mainly actin and microtubules, which shape, position, and orient the organelle. Closer to the Golgi membranes, a matrix of long coiled-coiled proteins not only selectively captures transport intermediates but also participates in signaling events during polarization of membrane trafficking. Finally, the Golgi membranes themselves serve as active signaling platforms during cell polarity events. We review here the recent findings that link the Golgi apparatus to cell polarity, focusing on the roles of the cytoskeleton, the Golgi matrix, and the Golgi membranes.

Form and function of the Golgi apparatus: scaffolds, cytoskeleton and signalling

In addition to the classical functions of the Golgi in membrane transport and glycosylation, the Golgi apparatus of mammalian cells is now recognised to contribute to the regulation of a range of cellular processes, including mitosis, DNA repair, stress responses, autophagy, apoptosis and inflammation. These processes are often mediated, either directly or indirectly, by membrane scaffold molecules, such as golgins and GRASPs which are located on Golgi membranes. In many cases, these scaffold molecules also link the actin and microtubule cytoskeleton and influence Golgi morphology. An emerging theme is a strong relationship between the morphology of the Golgi and regulation of a variety of signalling pathways. Here, we review the molecular regulation of the morphology of the Golgi, especially the role of the golgins and other scaffolds in the interaction with the microtubule and actin networks. In addition, we discuss the impact of the modulation of the Golgi ribbon in various diseases, such as neurodegeneration and cancer, to the pathology of disease.

Function of Golgi-centrosome proximity in RPE-1 cells

The close physical proximity between the Golgi and the centrosome is a unique feature of mammalian cells that has baffled scientists for years. Several knockdown and overexpression studies have linked the spatial relationship between these two organelles to the control of directional protein transport, directional migration, ciliogenesis and mitotic entry. However, most of these conditions have not only separated these two organelles, but also caused extensive fragmentation of the Golgi, making it difficult to dissect the specific contribution of Golgi-centrosome proximity. In this study, we present our results with stable retinal pigment epithelial (RPE-1) cell lines in which GM130 was knocked out using a CRISPR/Cas9 approach. While Golgi and centrosome organization appeared mostly intact in cells lacking GM130, there was a clear separation of these organelles from each other. We show that GM130 may control Golgi-centrosome proximity by anchoring AKAP450 to the Golgi. We also provide evidence that the physical proximity between these two organelles is dispensable for protein transport, cell migration, and ciliogenesis. These results suggest that Golgi-centrosome proximity per se is not necessary for the normal function of RPE-1 cells.

PKC and PKN in heart disease

The protein kinase C (PKC) and closely related protein kinase N (PKN) families of serine/threonine protein kinases play crucial cellular roles. Both kinases belong to the AGC subfamily of protein kinases that also include the cAMP dependent protein kinase (PKA), protein kinase B (PKB/AKT), protein kinase G (PKG) and the ribosomal protein S6 kinase (S6K). Involvement of PKC family members in heart disease has been well documented over the years, as their activity and levels are mis-regulated in several pathological heart conditions, such as ischemia, diabetic cardiomyopathy, as well as hypertrophic or dilated cardiomyopathy. This review focuses on the regulation of PKCs and PKNs in different pathological heart conditions and on the influences that PKC/PKN activation has on several physiological processes. In addition, we discuss mechanisms by which PKCs and the closely related PKNs are activated and turned-off in hearts, how they regulate cardiac specific downstream targets and pathways, and how their inhibition by small molecules is explored as new therapeutic target to treat cardiomyopathies and heart failure.

Intraflagellar transport 20 promotes collective cancer cell invasion by regulating polarized organization of Golgi-associated microtubules

Collective invasion is an important strategy of cancers of epithelial origin, including colorectal cancer (CRC), to infiltrate efficiently into local tissues as collective cell groups. Within the groups, cells at the invasive front, called leader cells, are highly polarized and motile, thereby providing the migratory traction that guides the follower cells. However, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We have previously shown that signaling emanating from the receptor tyrosine kinase Ror2 can promote invasion of human osteosarcoma cells and that intraflagellar transport 20 (IFT20) mediates its signaling to regulate Golgi structure and transport. Herein, we investigated the role of Ror2 and IFT20 in collective invasion of CRC cells, where Ror2 expression is either silenced or nonsilenced. We show by cell biological analyses that IFT20 promotes collective invasion of CRC cells, irrespective of expression and function of Ror2. Intraflagellar transport 20 is required for organization of Golgi‐associated, stabilized microtubules, oriented toward the direction of invasion in leader cells. Our results also indicate that IFT20 promotes reorientation of the Golgi apparatus toward the front side of leader cells. Live cell imaging of the microtubule plus‐end binding protein EB1 revealed that IFT20 is required for continuous polarized microtubule growth in leader cells. These results indicate that IFT20 plays an important role in collective invasion of CRC cells by regulating organization of Golgi‐associated, stabilized microtubules and Golgi polarity in leader cells.

Sex differences in gene regulation in the dorsal root ganglion after nerve injury

BACKGROUND

Pain is a subjective experience derived from complex interactions among biological, environmental, and psychosocial pathways. Sex differences in pain sensitivity and chronic pain prevalence are well established. However, the molecular basis underlying these sex dimorphisms are poorly understood particularly with regard to the role of the peripheral nervous system. Here we sought to identify shared and distinct gene networks functioning in the peripheral nervous systems that may contribute to sex differences of pain in rats after nerve injury.

RESULTS

We performed RNA-seq on dorsal root ganglia following chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve in male and female rats. Analysis from paired naive and injured tissues showed that 1513 genes were differentially expressed between sexes. Genes which facilitated synaptic transmission in naïve and injured females did not show increased expression in males.

CONCLUSIONS

Appreciating sex-related gene expression differences and similarities in neuropathic pain models may help to improve the translational relevance to clinical populations and efficacy of clinical trials of this major health issue.

Golgi Structure and Function in Health, Stress, and Diseases

The Golgi apparatus is a central intracellular membrane-bound organelle with key functions in trafficking, processing, and sorting of newly synthesized membrane and secretory proteins and lipids. To best perform these functions, Golgi membranes form a unique stacked structure. The Golgi structure is dynamic but tightly regulated; it undergoes rapid disassembly and reassembly during the cell cycle of mammalian cells and is disrupted under certain stress and pathological conditions. In the past decade, significant amount of effort has been made to reveal the molecular mechanisms that regulate the Golgi membrane architecture and function. Here we review the major discoveries in the mechanisms of Golgi structure formation, regulation, and alteration in relation to its functions in physiological and pathological conditions to further our understanding of Golgi structure and function in health and diseases.

The Golgi architecture and cell sensing

An array of signalling molecules are located at the Golgi apparatus, including phosphoinositides, small GTPases, kinases, and phosphatases, which are linked to multiple signalling pathways. Initially considered to be associated predominantly with membrane trafficking, signalling pathways at the Golgi are now recognised to regulate a diverse range of higher-order functions. Many of these signalling pathways are influenced by the architecture of the Golgi. In vertebrate cells, the Golgi consists of individual stacks fused together into a compact ribbon structure and the function of this ribbon structure has been enigmatic. Notably, recent advances have identified a role for the Golgi ribbon in regulation of cellular processes. Fragmentation of the Golgi ribbon results in modulation of many signalling pathways. Various diseases and disorders, including cancer and neurodegeneration, are associated with the loss of the Golgi ribbon and the appearance of a dispersed fragmented Golgi. Here, we review the emerging theme of the Golgi as a cell sensor and highlight the relationship between the morphological status of the Golgi in vertebrate cells and the modulation of signalling networks.

Functions and dysfunctions of the mammalian centrosome in health, disorders, disease, and aging

Since its discovery well over 100 years ago (Flemming, in Sitzungsber Akad Wissensch Wien 71:81-147, 1875; Van Beneden, in Bull Acad R Belg 42:35-97, 1876) the centrosome is increasingly being recognized as a most impactful organelle for its role not only as primary microtubule organizing center (MTOC) but also as a major communication center for signal transduction pathways and as a center for proteolytic activities. Its significance for cell cycle regulation has been well studied and we now also know that centrosome dysfunctions are implicated in numerous diseases and disorders including cancer, Alstrom syndrome, Bardet-Biedl syndrome, Huntington's disease, reproductive disorders, and several other diseases and disorders. The present review is meant to build on information presented in the previous review (Schatten, in Histochem Cell Biol 129:667-686, 2008) and to highlight functions of the mammalian centrosome in health, and dysfunctions in disorders, disease, and aging with six sections focused on (1) centrosome structure and functions, and new insights into the role of centrosomes in cell cycle progression; (2) the role of centrosomes in tumor initiation and progression; (3) primary cilia, centrosome-primary cilia interactions, and consequences for cell cycle functions in health and disease; (4) transitions from centrosome to non-centrosome functions during cellular polarization; (5) other centrosome dysfunctions associated with the pathogenesis of human disease; and (6) centrosome functions in oocyte germ cells and dysfunctions in reproductive disorders and reproductive aging.

A sophisticated, differentiated Golgi in the ancestor of eukaryotes

BACKGROUND

The Golgi apparatus is a central meeting point for the endocytic and exocytic systems in eukaryotic cells, and the organelle's dysfunction results in human disease. Its characteristic morphology of multiple differentiated compartments organized into stacked flattened cisternae is one of the most recognizable features of modern eukaryotic cells, and yet how this is maintained is not well understood. The Golgi is also an ancient aspect of eukaryotes, but the extent and nature of its complexity in the ancestor of eukaryotes is unclear. Various proteins have roles in organizing the Golgi, chief among them being the golgins.

RESULTS

We address Golgi evolution by analyzing genome sequences from organisms which have lost stacked cisternae as a feature of their Golgi and those that have not. Using genomics and immunomicroscopy, we first identify Golgi in the anaerobic amoeba Mastigamoeba balamuthi. We then searched 87 genomes spanning eukaryotic diversity for presence of the most prominent proteins implicated in Golgi structure, focusing on golgins. We show some candidates as animal specific and others as ancestral to eukaryotes.

CONCLUSIONS

None of the proteins examined show a phyletic distribution that correlates with the morphology of stacked cisternae, suggesting the possibility of stacking as an emergent property. Strikingly, however, the combination of golgins conserved among diverse eukaryotes allows for the most detailed reconstruction of the organelle to date, showing a sophisticated Golgi with differentiated compartments and trafficking pathways in the common eukaryotic ancestor.

Centrosome- and Golgi-Localized Protein Kinase N-Associated Protein Serves As a Docking Platform for Protein Kinase A Signaling and Microtubule Nucleation in Migrating T-Cells

Centrosome- and Golgi-localized protein kinase N-associated protein (CG-NAP), also known as AKAP450, is a cytosolic scaffolding protein involved in the targeted positioning of multiple signaling molecules, which are critical for cellular functioning. Here, we show that CG-NAP is predominantly expressed in human primary T-lymphocytes, localizes in close proximity (<0.2 μm) with centrosomal and Golgi structures and serves as a docking platform for Protein Kinase A (PKA). GapmeR-mediated knockdown of CG-NAP inhibits LFA-1-induced T-cell migration and impairs T-cell chemotaxis toward the chemokine SDF-1α. Depletion of CG-NAP dislocates PKARIIα, disrupts centrosomal and non-centrosomal microtubule nucleation, causes Golgi fragmentation, and impedes α-tubulin tyrosination and acetylation, which are important for microtubule dynamics and stability in migrating T-cells. Furthermore, we show that CG-NAP coordinates PKA-mediated phosphorylation of pericentrin and dynein in T-cells. Overall, our findings provide critical insights into the roles of CG-NAP in regulating cytoskeletal architecture and T-cell migration.

Nonrandom γ-TuNA-dependent spatial pattern of microtubule nucleation at the Golgi

Noncentrosomal microtubule (MT) nucleation at the Golgi generates MT network asymmetry in motile vertebrate cells. Investigating the Golgi-derived MT (GDMT) distribution, we find that MT asymmetry arises from nonrandom nucleation sites at the Golgi (hotspots). Using computational simulations, we propose two plausible mechanistic models of GDMT nucleation leading to this phenotype. In the "cooperativity" model, formation of a single GDMT promotes further nucleation at the same site. In the "heterogeneous Golgi" model, MT nucleation is dramatically up-regulated at discrete and sparse locations within the Golgi. While MT clustering in hotspots is equally well described by both models, simulating MT length distributions within the cooperativity model fits the data better. Investigating the molecular mechanism underlying hotspot formation, we have found that hotspots are significantly smaller than a Golgi subdomain positive for scaffolding protein AKAP450, which is thought to recruit GDMT nucleation factors. We have further probed potential roles of known GDMT-promoting molecules, including γ-TuRC-mediated nucleation activator (γ-TuNA) domain-containing proteins and MT stabilizer CLASPs. While both γ-TuNA inhibition and lack of CLASPs resulted in drastically decreased GDMT nucleation, computational modeling revealed that only γ-TuNA inhibition suppressed hotspot formation. We conclude that hotspots require γ-TuNA activity, which facilitates clustered GDMT nucleation at distinct Golgi sites.

The C-terminal region of A-kinase anchor protein 350 (AKAP350A) enables formation of microtubule-nucleation centers and interacts with pericentriolar proteins

Microtubules in animal cells assemble (nucleate) from both the centrosome and the cis-Golgi cisternae. A-kinase anchor protein 350 kDa (AKAP350A, also called AKAP450/CG-NAP/AKAP9) is a large scaffolding protein located at both the centrosome and Golgi apparatus. Previous findings have suggested that AKAP350 is important for microtubule dynamics at both locations, but how this scaffolding protein assembles microtubule nucleation machinery is unclear. Here, we found that overexpression of the C-terminal third of AKAP350A, enhanced GFP-AKAP350A(2691-3907), induces the formation of multiple microtubule-nucleation centers (MTNCs). Nevertheless, these induced MTNCs lacked "true" centriole proteins, such as Cep135. Mapping analysis with AKAP350A truncations demonstrated that AKAP350A contains discrete regions responsible for promoting or inhibiting the formation of multiple MTNCs. Moreover, GFP-AKAP350A(2691-3907) recruited several pericentriolar proteins to MTNCs, including γ-tubulin, pericentrin, Cep68, Cep170, and Cdk5RAP2. Proteomic analysis indicated that Cdk5RAP2 and Cep170 both interact with the microtubule nucleation-promoting region of AKAP350A, whereas Cep68 interacts with the distal C-terminal AKAP350A region. Yeast two-hybrid assays established a direct interaction of Cep170 with AKAP350A. Super-resolution and deconvolution microscopy analyses were performed to define the association of AKAP350A with centrosomes, and these studies disclosed that AKAP350A spans the bridge between centrioles, co-localizing with rootletin and Cep68 in the linker region. siRNA-mediated depletion of AKAP350A caused displacement of both Cep68 and Cep170 from the centrosome. These results suggest that AKAP350A acts as a scaffold for factors involved in microtubule nucleation at the centrosome and coordinates the assembly of protein complexes associating with the intercentriolar bridge.

The Function of the Golgi Ribbon Structure - An Enduring Mystery Unfolds!

The Golgi apparatus in vertebrate cells consists of individual Golgi stacks fused together in a continuous ribbon structure. The ribbon structure per se is not required to mediate the classical functions of this organelle and the relevance of the "ribbon" structure has been a mystery since first identified ultrastructurally in the 1950s. Recent advances recognize a role for the Golgi apparatus in a range of cellular processes, some mediated by signaling networks which are regulated at the Golgi. Here we review the cellular processes and signaling events regulated by the Golgi apparatus and, in particular, explore an emerging theme that the ribbon structure of the Golgi contributes directly to the regulation of these higher order functions.

Molecular Mechanisms for cAMP-Mediated Immunoregulation in T cells - Role of Anchored Protein Kinase A Signaling Units

The cyclic AMP/protein kinase A (cAMP/PKA) pathway is one of the most common and versatile signal pathways in eukaryotic cells. A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) target PKA to specific substrates and distinct subcellular compartments providing spatial and temporal specificity for mediation of biological effects channeled through the cAMP/PKA pathway. In the immune system, cAMP is a potent negative regulator of T cell receptor-mediated activation of effector T cells (Teff) acting through a proximal PKA/Csk/Lck pathway anchored via a scaffold consisting of the AKAP Ezrin holding PKA, the linker protein EBP50, and the anchoring protein phosphoprotein associated with glycosphingolipid-enriched microdomains holding Csk. As PKA activates Csk and Csk inhibits Lck, this pathway in response to cAMP shuts down proximal T cell activation. This immunomodulating pathway in Teff mediates clinically important responses to regulatory T cell (Treg) suppression and inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins (PGs), adrenergic stimuli, adenosine, and a number of other ligands. A major inducer of T cell cAMP levels is PG E2 (PGE2) acting through EP2 and EP4 prostanoid receptors. PGE2 plays a crucial role in the normal physiological control of immune homeostasis as well as in inflammation and cancer immune evasion. Peripherally induced Tregs express cyclooxygenase-2, secrete PGE2, and elicit the immunosuppressive cAMP pathway in Teff as one tumor immune evasion mechanism. Moreover, a cAMP increase can also be induced by indirect mechanisms, such as intercellular transfer between T cells. Indeed, Treg, known to have elevated levels of intracellular cAMP, may mediate their suppressive function by transferring cAMP to Teff through gap junctions, which we speculate could also be regulated by PKA/AKAP complexes. In this review, we present an updated overview on the influence of cAMP-mediated immunoregulatory mechanisms acting through localized cAMP signaling and the therapeutical increasing prospects of AKAPs disruptors in T-cell immune function.

PP2A as a master regulator of the cell cycle

Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) plays a critical multi-faceted role in the regulation of the cell cycle. It is known to dephosphorylate over 300 substrates involved in the cell cycle, regulating almost all major pathways and cell cycle checkpoints. PP2A is involved in such diverse processes by the formation of structurally distinct families of holoenzymes, which are regulated spatially and temporally by specific regulators. Here, we review the involvement of PP2A in the regulation of three cell signaling pathways: wnt, mTOR and MAP kinase, as well as the G1→S transition, DNA synthesis and mitotic initiation. These processes are all crucial for proper cell survival and proliferation and are often deregulated in cancer and other diseases.

The GTPase RAN regulates multiple steps of the centrosome life cycle

Growing lines of evidence implicate the small GTPase RAN, its regulators and effectors--predominantly, nuclear transport receptors--in practically all aspects of centrosome biology in mammalian cells. These include duplication licensing, cohesion, positioning, and microtubule-nucleation capacity. RAN cooperates with the protein nuclear export vector exportin 1/CRM1 to recruit scaffolding proteins containing nuclear export sequences that play roles in the structural organization of centrosomes. Together, they also limit centrosome reduplication by regulating the localization of key "licensing" proteins during the centrosome duplication cycle. In parallel, RAN also regulates the capacity of centrosomes to nucleate and organize functional microtubules, and this predominanlty involves importin vectors: many factors regulating microtubule nucleation or function harbor nuclear localization sequences that interact with importin molecules and such interaction inhibits their activity. Active RANGTP binding to importin molecules removes the inhibition and releases microtubule regulatory factors in the free productive form. A dynamic scenario emerges, in which RAN is pivotal in linking spatiotemporal control of centrosome regulators to the cell cycle machinery.

AKAP9, a Regulator of Microtubule Dynamics, Contributes to Blood-Testis Barrier Function

The blood-testis barrier (BTB), formed between adjacent Sertoli cells, undergoes extensive remodeling to facilitate the transport of preleptotene spermatocytes across the barrier from the basal to apical compartments of the seminiferous tubules for further development and maturation into spermatozoa. The actin cytoskeleton serves unique structural and supporting roles in this process, but little is known about the role of microtubules and their regulators during BTB restructuring. The large isoform of the cAMP-responsive scaffold protein AKAP9 regulates microtubule dynamics and nucleation at the Golgi. We found that conditional deletion of Akap9 in mice after the initial formation of the BTB at puberty leads to infertility. Akap9 deletion results in marked alterations in the organization of microtubules in Sertoli cells and a loss of barrier integrity despite a relatively intact, albeit more apically localized F-actin and BTB tight junctional proteins. These changes are accompanied by a loss of haploid spermatids due to impeded meiosis. The barrier, however, progressively reseals in older Akap9 null mice, which correlates with a reduction in germ cell apoptosis and a greater incidence of meiosis. However, spermiogenesis remains defective, suggesting additional roles for AKAP9 in this process. Together, our data suggest that AKAP9 and, by inference, the regulation of the microtubule network are critical for BTB function and subsequent germ cell development during spermatogenesis.

Protein kinase C: a regulator of cytoskeleton remodelling and T-cell migration

Protein kinase C (PKC) is a family of ten serine/threonine kinases that have diverse roles in the signalling pathways regulating cellular proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and immune responses. Elucidating roles for individual PKC isoforms in the immune responses of T-cells have long been a challenging prospect, because these cells are known to express nine of these isoforms. A variety of approaches including the use of knockout mice, overexpression of kinase-inactive mutants, cell-permeable peptides, pharmacological inhibitors and siRNAs have shown that PKCs regulate the production of inflammatory cytokines and the cytotoxic responses of various T-cell subsets. Central to the T-cell immune response is a requirement to migrate to various organs and tissues in search of pathogens and micro-organisms. T-cell migration is guided by specific sets of chemokines and integrin ligands that activate their cognate chemokine receptors and integrins on T-cells, resulting in remodelling of the cytoskeleton and the dynamic protrusive/contractile forces necessary for cell adhesion and motility. In the present article, we review the role of PKC in T-cell migration, with an emphasis on studies that have defined their roles in cytoskeletal remodelling, cell polarity and intracellular trafficking downstream of chemokine receptors and integrins.

Tuning the signalling output of protein kinase C

Precise control of the amplitude of protein kinase C (PKC) signalling is essential for cellular homoeostasis, and disruption of this control leads to pathophysiological states such as cancer, neurodegeneration and diabetes. For conventional and novel PKC, this amplitude is meticulously tuned by multiple inputs that regulate the amount of enzyme in the cell, its ability to sense its allosteric activator diacylglycerol, and protein scaffolds that co-ordinate access to substrates. Key to regulation of the signalling output of most PKC isoenzymes is the ability of cytosolic enzyme to respond to the membrane-embedded lipid second messenger, diacylglycerol, in a dynamic range that prevents signalling in the absence of agonists but allows efficient activation in response to small changes in diacylglycerol levels. The present review discusses the regulatory inputs that control the spatiotemporal dynamics of PKC signalling, with a focus on conventional and novel PKC isoenzymes.

Resequencing and association analysis of coding regions at twenty candidate genes suggest a role for rare risk variation at AKAP9 and protective variation at NRXN1 in schizophrenia susceptibility

A fraction of genetic risk to develop schizophrenia may be due to low-frequency variants. This multistep study attempted to find low-frequency variants of high effect at coding regions of eleven schizophrenia susceptibility genes supported by genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and nine genes for the DISC1 interactome, a susceptibility gene-set. During the discovery step, a total of 125 kb per sample were resequenced in 153 schizophrenia patients and 153 controls from Galicia (NW Spain), and the cumulative role of low-frequency variants at a gene or at the DISC1 gene-set were analyzed by burden and variance-based tests. Relevant results were meta-analyzed when appropriate data were available. In addition, case-only putative damaging variants were genotyped in a further 419 cases and 398 controls. The discovery step revealed a protective effect of rare missense variants at NRXN1, a result supported by meta-analysis (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.47-0.94, P = 0.021, based on 3848 patients and 3896 controls from six studies). The follow-up step based on case-only putative damaging variants revealed a promising risk variant at AKAP9. This variant, K873R, reached nominal significance after inclusion of 240 additional Spanish controls from databases. The variant, located in an ADCY2 binding region, is absent from large public databases. Interestingly, GWAS revealed an association between common ADCY2 variants and bipolar disorder, a disorder with considerable genetic overlap with schizophrenia. These data suggest a role of rare missense variants at NRXN1 and AKAP9 in schizophrenia susceptibility, probably related to alteration of the excitatory/inhibitory synaptic balance, deserving further investigation.

The centrosome-Golgi apparatus nexus

A shared feature among all microtubule (MT)-dependent processes is the requirement for MTs to be organized in arrays of defined geometry. At a fundamental level, this is achieved by precisely controlling the timing and localization of the nucleation events that give rise to new MTs. To this end, MT nucleation is restricted to specific subcellular sites called MT-organizing centres. The primary MT-organizing centre in proliferating animal cells is the centrosome. However, the discovery of MT nucleation capacity of the Golgi apparatus (GA) has substantially changed our understanding of MT network organization in interphase cells. Interestingly, MT nucleation at the Golgi apparently relies on multiprotein complexes, similar to those present at the centrosome, that assemble at the cis-face of the organelle. In this process, AKAP450 plays a central role, acting as a scaffold to recruit other centrosomal proteins important for MT generation. MT arrays derived from either the centrosome or the GA differ in their geometry, probably reflecting their different, yet complementary, functions. Here, I review our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in MT nucleation at the GA and how Golgi- and centrosome-based MT arrays work in concert to ensure the formation of a pericentrosomal polarized continuous Golgi ribbon structure, a critical feature for cell polarity in mammalian cells. In addition, I comment on the important role of the Golgi-nucleated MTs in organizing specialized MT arrays that serve specific functions in terminally differentiated cells.

The centrosome: a prospective entrant in cancer therapy

INTRODUCTION

The centrosome plays an essential role in the cell cycle. The centrosome and its associated proteins assist in nucleating and organizing microtubules. A structural or a functional aberration in the centrosome is known to cause abnormal cell proliferation leading to tumors. Therefore, the centrosome is considered as a promising anti-cancer target.

AREAS COVERED

This review begins with a brief introduction to the centrosome and its role in the cell cycle. We elaborate on the centrosome-associated proteins that regulate microtubule dynamics. In addition, we discuss the centrosomal protein kinase targets such as cyclin-dependent, polo-like and aurora kinases. Inhibitors targeting these kinases are undergoing clinical trials for cancer chemotherapy. Further, we shed light on new approaches to target the centrosomal proteins for cancer therapy.

EXPERT OPINION

Insights into the functioning of the centrosomal proteins will be extremely beneficial in validating the centrosome as a target in cancer therapy. New strategies either as a single entity or in combination with current chemotherapeutic agents should be researched or exploited to reveal the promises that the centrosome holds for future cancer therapy.

Peripheral scaffolding and signaling pathways in inflammatory pain

Peripheral injury precipitates the release and accumulation of extracellular molecules at the site of injury. Although these molecules exist in various forms, they activate specific receptor classes expressed on primary afferent neurons to mediate cellular and behavioral responses to both nonpainful and painful stimuli. These inflammatory mediators and subsequent receptor-mediated effects exist to warn an organism of future injury, thereby resulting in protection and rehabilitation of the wounded tissue. In this chapter, inflammatory mediators, their target receptor classes, and downstream signaling pathways are identified and discussed within the context of inflammatory hyperalgesia. Furthermore, scaffolding mechanisms that exist to support inflammatory signaling in peripheral afferent neuronal tissues specifically are identified and discussed. Together, the mediators, pathways, and scaffolding mechanisms involved in inflammatory hyperalgesia provide a unique knowledge point from which new therapeutic targets can be understood.

CENP-32 is required to maintain centrosomal dominance in bipolar spindle assembly

CENP-32 depletion releases centrosomes from spindles after initiating spindle assembly. The free centrosomes do not interfere with the structure or function of the bipolar anastral spindle. The asters appear to be able to interact with the surface of the spindle but are unable to incorporate into it.

Centrosomes nucleate spindle formation, direct spindle pole positioning, and are important for proper chromosome segregation during mitosis in most animal cells. We previously reported that centromere protein 32 (CENP-32) is required for centrosome association with spindle poles during metaphase. In this study, we show that CENP-32 depletion seems to release centrosomes from bipolar spindles whose assembly they had previously initiated. Remarkably, the resulting anastral spindles function normally, aligning the chromosomes to a metaphase plate and entering anaphase without detectable interference from the free centrosomes, which appear to behave as free asters in these cells. The free asters, which contain reduced but significant levels of CDK5RAP2, show weak interactions with spindle microtubules but do not seem to make productive attachments to kinetochores. Thus CENP-32 appears to be required for centrosomes to integrate into a fully functional spindle that not only nucleates astral microtubules, but also is able to nucleate and bind to kinetochore and central spindle microtubules. Additional data suggest that NuMA tethers microtubules at the anastral spindle poles and that augmin is required for centrosome detachment after CENP-32 depletion, possibly due to an imbalance of forces within the spindle.

PAR3 and aPKC regulate Golgi organization through CLASP2 phosphorylation to generate cell polarity

A PAR complex (PAR3, PAR6, and aPKC) plays a central role in the establishment of cell polarity. Another polarity protein, CLASP2, binds directly with PAR3 and is phosphorylated by aPKC. Through CLASP2 phosphorylation, aPKC and PAR3 regulate the localization of CLASP2 to the trans-Golgi network, thereby controlling the Golgi organization.

The organization of the Golgi apparatus is essential for cell polarization and its maintenance. The polarity regulator PAR complex (PAR3, PAR6, and aPKC) plays critical roles in several processes of cell polarization. However, how the PAR complex participates in regulating the organization of the Golgi remains largely unknown. Here we demonstrate the functional cross-talk of the PAR complex with CLASP2, which is a microtubule plus-end–tracking protein and is involved in organizing the Golgi ribbon. CLASP2 directly interacted with PAR3 and was phosphorylated by aPKC. In epithelial cells, knockdown of either PAR3 or aPKC induced the aberrant accumulation of CLASP2 at the trans-Golgi network (TGN) concomitantly with disruption of the Golgi ribbon organization. The expression of a CLASP2 mutant that inhibited the PAR3-CLASP2 interaction disrupted the organization of the Golgi ribbon. CLASP2 is known to localize to the TGN through its interaction with the TGN protein GCC185. This interaction was inhibited by the aPKC-mediated phosphorylation of CLASP2. Furthermore, the nonphosphorylatable mutant enhanced the colocalization of CLASP2 with GCC185, thereby perturbing the Golgi organization. On the basis of these observations, we propose that PAR3 and aPKC control the organization of the Golgi through CLASP2 phosphorylation.

MTCL1 crosslinks and stabilizes non-centrosomal microtubules on the Golgi membrane

Recent studies have revealed the presence of a microtubule subpopulation called Golgi-derived microtubules that support Golgi ribbon formation, which is required for maintaining polarized cell migration. CLASPs and AKAP450/CG-NAP are involved in their formation, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we find that the microtubule-crosslinking protein, MTCL1, is recruited to the Golgi membranes through interactions with CLASPs and AKAP450/CG-NAP, and promotes microtubule growth from the Golgi membrane. Correspondingly, MTCL1 knockdown specifically impairs the formation of the stable perinuclear microtubule network to which the Golgi ribbon tethers and extends. Rescue experiments demonstrate that besides its crosslinking activity mediated by the N-terminal microtubule-binding region, the C-terminal microtubule-binding region plays essential roles in these MTCL1 functions through a novel microtubule-stabilizing activity. These results suggest that MTCL1 cooperates with CLASPs and AKAP450/CG-NAP in the formation of the Golgi-derived microtubules, and mediates their development into a stable microtubule network.

Adaptor regulation of LFA-1 signaling in T lymphocyte migration: Potential druggable targets for immunotherapies?

The integrin lymphocyte function associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) plays a key role in leukocyte trafficking and in adaptive immune responses through interactions with adhesive ligands, such as ICAM-1. Specific blockade of these interactions has validated LFA-1 as a therapeutic target in many chronic inflammatory diseases, however LFA-1 antagonists have not been clinically successful due to the development of a general immunosuppression, causing fatal side effects. Growing evidence has now established that LFA-1 mediates an array of intracellular signaling pathways by triggering a number of downstream molecules. In this context, a class of multimodular domain-containing proteins capable of recruiting two or more effector molecules, collectively known as "adaptor proteins," has emerged as important mediators in LFA-1 signal transduction. Here, we provide an overview of the adaptor proteins involved in the intracellular signaling cascades by which LFA-1 regulates T-cell motility and immune responses. The complexity of the LFA-1-associated signaling delineated in this review suggests that it may be an important and challenging focus for future research, enabling the identification of "tunable" targets for the development of immunotherapies.