The direct interaction of phospholipase C-gamma 1 with phospholipase D2 is important for epidermal growth factor signaling

Redox-modulated SNX25 as a novel regulator of GPCR-G protein signaling from endosomes

GPCR-G protein signaling from endosomes plays a crucial role in various physiological and pathological processes. However, the mechanism by which endosomal G protein signaling is terminated remains largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanisms involved in terminating the signaling of Gα subunits from endosomes. Through structural analysis and cell-based assays, we have discovered that SNX25, a protein that targets endosomes via its PXA or PXC domain, interacts with regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins (including RGS2, RGS4, RGS8, and RGS17) in a redox-regulated manner. The interaction between SNX25 and these RGS proteins enhances their GTPase-accelerating activity towards Gαi/q and their ability to bind GDP-bound (inactive form) Gαi/q. As a result, SNX25 recruits these RGS proteins to endosomes, leading to the termination of endosomal Gαi/q signaling. Furthermore, we have found that the SNX25/RGS complex also exerts a negative regulatory effect on Gαi/q signaling from the plasma membrane. This is achieved by recruiting Gαi/q to endosomes and preventing its activation on the plasma membrane. Our findings shed light on the previously unknown role of redox-modulated SNX25 in inhibiting Gαi/q signaling, thereby uncovering a novel mechanism for terminating Gαi/q signaling from endosomes. Importantly, this study expands our understanding of the regulation of GPCR-Gαi/q signaling beyond the plasma membrane.

Regulation of the Phosphoinositide Code by Phosphorylation of Membrane Readers

The genetic code that dictates how nucleic acids are translated into proteins is well known, however, the code through which proteins recognize membranes remains mysterious. In eukaryotes, this code is mediated by hundreds of membrane readers that recognize unique phosphatidylinositol phosphates (PIPs), which demark organelles to initiate localized trafficking and signaling events. The only superfamily which specifically detects all seven PIPs are the Phox homology (PX) domains. Here, we reveal that throughout evolution, these readers are universally regulated by the phosphorylation of their PIP binding surfaces based on our analysis of existing and modelled protein structures and phosphoproteomic databases. These PIP-stops control the selective targeting of proteins to organelles and are shown to be key determinants of high-fidelity PIP recognition. The protein kinases responsible include prominent cancer targets, underscoring the critical role of regulated membrane readership.

Role of receptor tyrosine kinases mediated signal transduction pathways in tumor growth and angiogenesis-New insight and futuristic vision

In the past two decades, significant progress has been made in the past two decades towards the understanding of the basic mechanisms underlying cancer growth and angiogenesis. In this context, receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) play a pivotal role in cell proliferation, differentiation, growth, motility, invasion, and angiogenesis, all of which contribute to tumor growth and progression. Mutations in RTKs lead to abnormal signal transductions in several pathways such as Ras-Raf, MEK-MAPK, PI3K-AKT and mTOR pathways, affecting a wide range of biological functions including cell proliferation, survival, migration and vascular permeability. Increasing evidence demonstrates that multiple kinases are involved in angiogenesis including RTKs such as vascular endothelial growth factor, platelet derived growth factor, epidermal growth factor, insulin-like growth factor-1, macrophage colony-stimulating factor, nerve growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, Hepatocyte Growth factor, Tie 1 & 2, Tek, Flt-3, Flt-4 and Eph receptors. Overactivation of RTKs and its downstream regulation is implicated in tumor initiation and angiogenesis, representing one of the hallmarks of cancer. This review discusses the role of RTKs, PI3K, and mTOR, their involvement, and their implication in pro-oncogenic cellular processes and angiogenesis with effective approaches and newly approved drugs to inhibit their unrestrained action.

Structure and regulation of human phospholipase D

Mammalian phospholipase D (PLD) generates phosphatidic acid, a dynamic lipid secondary messenger involved with a broad spectrum of cellular functions including but not limited to metabolism, migration, and exocytosis. As a promising pharmaceutical target, the biochemical properties of PLD have been well characterized. This has led to the recent crystal structures of human PLD1 and PLD2, the development of PLD specific pharmacological inhibitors, and the identification of cellular regulators of PLD. In this review, we discuss the PLD1 and PLD2 structures, PLD inhibition by small molecules, and the regulation of PLD activity by effector proteins and lipids.

Phospholipase D as a Potential Modulator of Metabolic Syndrome: Impact of Functional Foods

Significance: Cardiometabolic disorders (CMD) are composed of a plethora of metabolic dysfunctions such as dyslipidemia, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, and hypertension. The development of these disorders is highly linked to inflammation and oxidative stress (OxS), two metabolic states closely related to physiological and pathological conditions. Given the drastically rising CMD prevalence, the discovery of new therapeutic targets/novel nutritional approaches is of utmost importance. Recent Advances: The tremendous progress in methods/technologies and animal modeling has allowed the clarification of phospholipase D (PLD) critical roles in multiple cellular processes, whether directly or indirectly via phosphatidic acid, the lipid product mediating signaling functions. In view of its multiple features and implications in various diseases, PLD has emerged as a drug target. Critical Issues: Although insulin stimulates PLD activity and, in turn, PLD regulates insulin signaling, the impact of the two important PLD isoforms on the metabolic syndrome components remains vague. Therefore, after outlining PLD1/PLD2 characteristics and functions, their role in inflammation, OxS, and CMD has been analyzed and critically reported in the present exhaustive review. The influence of functional foods and nutrients in the regulation of PLD has also been examined. Future Directions: Available evidence supports the implication of PLD in CMD, but only few studies emphasize its mechanisms of action and specific regulation by nutraceutical compounds. Therefore, additional investigations are first needed to clarify the functional role of nutraceutics and, second, to elucidate whether targeting PLDs with food compounds represents an appropriate therapeutic strategy to treat CMD. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 34, 252-278.

Mammalian phospholipase D: Function, and therapeutics

Despite being discovered over 60 years ago, the precise role of phospholipase D (PLD) is still being elucidated. PLD enzymes catalyze the hydrolysis of the phosphodiester bond of glycerophospholipids producing phosphatidic acid and the free headgroup. PLD family members are found in organisms ranging from viruses, and bacteria to plants, and mammals. They display a range of substrate specificities, are regulated by a diverse range of molecules, and have been implicated in a broad range of cellular processes including receptor signaling, cytoskeletal regulation and membrane trafficking. Recent technological advances including: the development of PLD knockout mice, isoform-specific antibodies, and specific inhibitors are finally permitting a thorough analysis of the in vivo role of mammalian PLDs. These studies are facilitating increased recognition of PLD's role in disease states including cancers and Alzheimer's disease, offering potential as a target for therapeutic intervention.

The Lipase Activity of Phospholipase D2 is Responsible for Nigral Neurodegeneration in a Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease

Phospholipase D2 (PLD2), an enzyme involved in vesicle trafficking and membrane signaling, interacts with α-synuclein, a protein known to contribute in the development of Parkinson disease (PD). We previously reported that PLD2 overexpression in rat substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) causes a rapid neurodegeneration of dopamine neurons, and that α-synuclein suppresses PLD2-induced nigral degeneration (Gorbatyuk et al., 2010). Here, we report that PLD2 toxicity is due to its lipase activity. Overexpression of a catalytically inactive mutant (K758R) of PLD2 prevents the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the SNc and does not show signs of toxicity after 10 weeks of overexpression. Further, mutant K758R does not affect dopamine levels in the striatum. In contrast, mutants that prevent PLD2 interaction with dynamin or growth factor receptor bound protein 2 (Grb2) but retained lipase activity, continued to show rapid neurodegeneration. These findings suggest that neither the interaction of PLD2 with dynamin, which has a role in vesicle trafficking, nor the PLD2 interaction with Grb2, which has multiple roles in cell cycle control, chemotaxis and activation of tyrosine kinase complexes, are the primary cause of neurodegeneration. Instead, the synthesis of phosphatidic acid (the product of PLD2), which is a second messenger in multiple cellular pathways, appears to be the key to PLD2 induced neurodegeneration. The fact that α-synuclein is a regulator of PLD2 activity suggests that regulation of PLD2 activity could be important in the progression of PD.

The Phox Homology (PX) Domain

The phox-homology (PX) domain is a phosphoinositide-binding domain conserved in all eukaryotes and present in 49 human proteins. Proteins containing PX domains, many of which are also known as sorting nexins (SNXs), have a large variety of functions in membrane trafficking, cell signaling, and lipid metabolism in association with membranes of the secretory and endocytic system. In this review we discuss the structural basis for both canonical lipid interactions with the endosome-enriched lipid phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate (PtdIns3P) as well as non-canonical lipids that promote membrane association. We also describe recent advances in defining the diverse mechanisms by which PX domains interact with other proteins including the retromer trafficking complex and proteins secreted by bacterial pathogens. Like other membrane interacting domains, the attachment of PX domain proteins to specific membranes is often facilitated by additional interactions that contribute to binding avidity, and we discuss this coincidence detection for several known examples.

ErbB Receptors and Cancer

The ErbB receptor family, also known as the EGF receptor family or type I receptor family, includes the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) or ErbB1/Her1, ErbB2/Her2, ErbB3/Her3, and ErbB4/Her4. Among all RTKs, EGFR was the first RTK identified and the first one linked to cancer. Thus, EGFR has also been the most intensively studied among all RTKs. ErbB receptors are activated after homodimerization or heterodimerization. The ErbB family is unique among the various groups of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) in that ErbB3 has impaired kinase activity, while ErbB2 does not have a direct ligand. Therefore, heterodimerization is an important mechanism that allows the activation of all ErbB receptors in response to ligand stimulation. The activated ErbB receptors bind to many signaling proteins and stimulate the activation of many signaling pathways. The specificity and potency of intracellular signaling pathways are determined by positive and negative regulators, the specific composition of activating ligand(s), receptor dimer components, and the diverse range of proteins that associate with the tyrosine phosphorylated C-terminal domain of the ErbB receptors. ErbB receptors are overexpressed or mutated in many cancers, especially in breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer. The overexpression and overactivation of ErbB receptors are correlated with poor prognosis, drug resistance, cancer metastasis, and lower survival rate. ErbB receptors, especially EGFR and ErbB2 have been the primary choices as targets for developing cancer therapies.

Phospholipase D signaling pathways and phosphatidic acid as therapeutic targets in cancer

Phospholipase D is a ubiquitous class of enzymes that generates phosphatidic acid as an intracellular signaling species. The phospholipase D superfamily plays a central role in a variety of functions in prokaryotes, viruses, yeast, fungi, plants, and eukaryotic species. In mammalian cells, the pathways modulating catalytic activity involve a variety of cellular signaling components, including G protein-coupled receptors, receptor tyrosine kinases, polyphosphatidylinositol lipids, Ras/Rho/ADP-ribosylation factor GTPases, and conventional isoforms of protein kinase C, among others. Recent findings have shown that phosphatidic acid generated by phospholipase D plays roles in numerous essential cellular functions, such as vesicular trafficking, exocytosis, autophagy, regulation of cellular metabolism, and tumorigenesis. Many of these cellular events are modulated by the actions of phosphatidic acid, and identification of two targets (mammalian target of rapamycin and Akt kinase) has especially highlighted a role for phospholipase D in the regulation of cellular metabolism. Phospholipase D is a regulator of intercellular signaling and metabolic pathways, particularly in cells that are under stress conditions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the regulation of phospholipase D activity and its modulation of cellular signaling pathways and functions.

Phospholipase C and D regulation of Src, calcium release and membrane fusion during Xenopus laevis development

This review emphasizes how lipids regulate membrane fusion and the proteins involved in three developmental stages: oocyte maturation to the fertilizable egg, fertilization and during first cleavage. Decades of work show that phosphatidic acid (PA) releases intracellular calcium, and recent work shows that the lipid can activate Src tyrosine kinase or phospholipase C during Xenopus fertilization. Numerous reports are summarized to show three levels of increase in lipid second messengers inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and sn 1,2-diacylglycerol (DAG) during the three different developmental stages. In addition, possible roles for PA, ceramide, lysophosphatidylcholine, plasmalogens, phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate, phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate, phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate, membrane microdomains (rafts) and phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate in regulation of membrane fusion (acrosome reaction, sperm-egg fusion, cortical granule exocytosis), inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors, and calcium release are discussed. The role of six lipases involved in generating putative lipid second messengers during fertilization is also discussed: phospholipase D, autotaxin, lipin1, sphingomyelinase, phospholipase C, and phospholipase A2. More specifically, proteins involved in developmental events and their regulation through lipid binding to SH3, SH4, PH, PX, or C2 protein domains is emphasized. New models are presented for PA activation of Src (through SH3, SH4 and a unique domain), that this may be why the SH2 domain of PLCγ is not required for Xenopus fertilization, PA activation of phospholipase C, a role for PA during the calcium wave after fertilization, and that calcium/calmodulin may be responsible for the loss of Src from rafts after fertilization. Also discussed is that the large DAG increase during fertilization derives from phospholipase D production of PA and lipin dephosphorylation to DAG.

Mechanism of enzymatic reaction and protein-protein interactions of PLD from a 3D structural model

The phospholipase D (PLD) superfamily catalyzes the hydrolysis of cell membrane phospholipids generating the key intracellular lipid second messenger phosphatidic acid. However, there is not yet any resolved structure either from a crystallized protein or from NMR of any mammalian PLDs. We propose here a 3D model of the PLD2 by combining homology and ab initio 3 dimensional structural modeling methods, and docking conformation. This model is in agreement with the biochemical and physiological behavior of PLD in cells. For the lipase activity, the N- and C-terminal histidines of the HKD motifs (His 442/His 756) form a catalytic pocket, which accommodates phosphatidylcholine head group (but not phosphatidylethanolamine or phosphatidyl serine). The model explains the mechanism of the reaction catalysis, with nucleophilic attacks of His 442 and water, the latter aided by His 756. Further, the secondary structure regions superimposed with bacterial PLD crystal structure, which indicated an agreement with the model. It also explains protein-protein interactions, such as PLD2-Rac2 transmodulation (with a 1:2 stoichiometry) and PLD2 GEF activity both relevant for cell migration, as well as the existence of binding sites for phosphoinositides such as PIP2. These consist of R236/W238 and R557/W563 and a novel PIP2 binding site in the PH domain of PLD2, specifically R210/R212/W233. In each of these, the polar inositol ring is oriented towards the basic amino acid Arginine. Since tumor-aggravating properties have been found in mice overexpressing PLD2 enzyme, the 3D model of PLD2 will be also useful, to a large extent, in developing pharmaceuticals to modulate its in vivo activity.

Phospholipase D in cell signaling: from a myriad of cell functions to cancer growth and metastasis

Phospholipase D (PLD) enzymes play a double vital role in cells: they maintain the integrity of cellular membranes and they participate in cell signaling including intracellular protein trafficking, cytoskeletal dynamics, cell migration, and cell proliferation. The particular involvement of PLD in cell migration is accomplished: (a) through the actions of its enzymatic product of reaction, phosphatidic acid, and its unique shape-binding role on membrane geometry; (b) through a particular guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) activity (the first of its class assigned to a phospholipase) in the case of the mammalian isoform PLD2; and (c) through protein-protein interactions with a wide network of molecules: Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp), Grb2, ribosomal S6 kinase (S6K), and Rac2. Further, PLD interacts with a variety of kinases (PKC, FES, EGF receptor (EGFR), and JAK3) that are activated by it, or PLD becomes the target substrate. Out of these myriads of functions, PLD is becoming recognized as a major player in cell migration, cell invasion, and cancer metastasis. This is the story of the evolution of PLD from being involved in a large number of seemingly unrelated cellular functions to its most recent role in cancer signaling, a subfield that is expected to grow exponentially.

Insights into the PX (phox-homology) domain and SNX (sorting nexin) protein families: structures, functions and roles in disease

The mammalian genome encodes 49 proteins that possess a PX (phox-homology) domain, responsible for membrane attachment to organelles of the secretory and endocytic system via binding of phosphoinositide lipids. The PX domain proteins, most of which are classified as SNXs (sorting nexins), constitute an extremely diverse family of molecules that play varied roles in membrane trafficking, cell signalling, membrane remodelling and organelle motility. In the present review, we present an overview of the family, incorporating recent functional and structural insights, and propose an updated classification of the proteins into distinct subfamilies on the basis of these insights. Almost all PX domain proteins bind PtdIns3P and are recruited to early endosomal membranes. Although other specificities and localizations have been reported for a select few family members, the molecular basis for binding to other lipids is still not clear. The PX domain is also emerging as an important protein–protein interaction domain, binding endocytic and exocytic machinery, transmembrane proteins and many other molecules. A comprehensive survey of the molecular interactions governed by PX proteins highlights the functional diversity of the family as trafficking cargo adaptors and membrane-associated scaffolds regulating cell signalling. Finally, we examine the mounting evidence linking PX proteins to different disorders, in particular focusing on their emerging importance in both pathogen invasion and amyloid production in Alzheimer's disease.

The exquisite regulation of PLD2 by a wealth of interacting proteins: S6K, Grb2, Sos, WASp and Rac2 (and a surprise discovery: PLD2 is a GEF)

Phospholipase D (PLD) catalyzes the conversion of the membrane phospholipid phosphatidylcholine to choline and phosphatidic acid (PA). PLD's mission in the cell is two-fold: phospholipid turnover with maintenance of the structural integrity of cellular/intracellular membranes and cell signaling through PA and its metabolites. Precisely, through its product of the reaction, PA, PLD has been implicated in a variety of physiological cellular functions, such as intracellular protein trafficking, cytoskeletal dynamics, chemotaxis of leukocytes and cell proliferation. The catalytic (HKD) and regulatory (PH and PX) domains were studied in detail in the PLD1 isoform, but PLD2 was traditionally studied in lesser detail and much less was known about its regulation. Our laboratory has been focusing on the study of PLD2 regulation in mammalian cells. Over the past few years, we have reported, in regards to the catalytic action of PLD, that PA is a chemoattractant agent that binds to and signals inside the cell through the ribosomal S6 kinases (S6K). Regarding the regulatory domains of PLD2, we have reported the discovery of the PLD2 interaction with Grb2 via Y169 in the PX domain, and further association to Sos, which results in an increase of de novo DNA synthesis and an interaction (also with Grb2) via the adjacent residue Y179, leading to the regulation of cell ruffling, chemotaxis and phagocytosis of leukocytes. We also present the complex regulation by tyrosine phosphorylation by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R), Janus Kinase 3 (JAK3) and Src and the role of phosphatases. Recently, there is evidence supporting a new level of regulation of PLD2 at the PH domain, by the discovery of CRIB domains and a Rac2-PLD2 interaction that leads to a dual (positive and negative) effect on its enzymatic activity. Lastly, we review the surprising finding of PLD2 acting as a GEF. A phospholipase such as PLD that exists already in the cell membrane that acts directly on Rac allows a quick response of the cell without intermediary signaling molecules. This provides only the latest level of PLD2 regulation in a field that promises newer and exciting advances in the next few years.

Phospholipase D2 Enhances Epidermal Growth Factor-Induced Akt Activation in EL4 Lymphoma Cells

Phospholipase D2 (PLD2) generates phosphatidic acid through hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine. PLD2 has been shown to play a role in enhancing tumorigenesis. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) can both activate and interact with PLD2. Murine lymphoma EL4 cells lacking endogenous PLD2 present a unique model to elucidate the role of PLD2 in signal transduction. In the current study, we investigated effects of PLD2 on EGF response. Western blotting and RT-PCR were used to establish that both parental cells and PLD2 transfectants express endogenous EGFR. Levels of EGFR protein are increased in cells expressing active PLD2, as compared to parental cells or cells expressing inactive PLD2. EGF stimulates proliferation of EL4 cells transfected with active PLD2, but not parental cells or cells transfected with inactive PLD2. EGF-mediated proliferation in cells expressing active PLD2 is dependent on the activities of both the EGFR and the PI3K/Akt pathway, as demonstrated by studies using protein kinase inhibitors. EGF-induced invasion through a synthetic extracellular matrix is enhanced in cells expressing active PLD2, as compared to parental cells or cells expressing inactive PLD2. Taken together, the data suggest that PLD2 acts in concert with EGFR to enhance mitogenesis and invasion in lymphoma cells.

Characterization of PXK as a protein involved in epidermal growth factor receptor trafficking

The phox homology (PX) domain is a phosphoinositide-binding module that typically binds phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate. Out of 47 mammalian proteins containing PX domains, more than 30 are denoted sorting nexins and several of these have been implicated in internalization of cell surface proteins to the endosome, where phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate is concentrated. Here we investigated a multimodular protein termed PXK, composed of a PX domain, a protein kinase-like domain, and a WASP homology 2 domain. We show that the PX domain of PXK localizes this protein to the endosomal membrane via binding to phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate. PXK expression in COS7 cells accelerated the ligand-induced internalization and degradation of epidermal growth factor receptors by a mechanism requiring phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate binding but not involving the WASP homology 2 domain. Conversely, depletion of PXK using RNA interference decreased the rate of epidermal growth factor receptor internalization and degradation. Ubiquitination of epidermal growth factor receptor by the ligand stimulation was enhanced in PXK-expressing cells. These results indicate that PXK plays a critical role in epidermal growth factor receptor trafficking through modulating ligand-induced ubiquitination of the receptor.

Epidermal growth factor increases lysophosphatidic acid production in human ovarian cancer cells: roles for phospholipase D2 and receptor transactivation

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), is a lipid mediator that binds to G-protein coupled receptors. Epidermal growth factor (EGF), a polypeptide growth factor, binds to the EGF receptor (EGFR), a receptor tyrosine kinase. Both LPA and EGF induce responses in tumor cells that include proliferation, migration, metastasis, and induction of angiogenesis. LPA has the potential to act as an autocrine/paracrine factor and can transactivate the EGFR. This study explores the role of phospholipase D2 (PLD2) activation in LPA production, as well as cross-talk between EGF and LPA receptors. We demonstrate that EGF and LPA both stimulate production of LPA by OVCAR3 and SKOV3 human ovarian cancer cell lines. PD158780, an EGFR-selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor, blocks LPA production in response to both EGF and LPA in OVCAR3 and SKOV3 cells. Pertussis toxin, an inhibitor of LPA receptor signaling, inhibits LPA production in response to both EGF and LPA. Similar results were observed for the LPA receptor antagonist, Ki16425. Overexpression of PLD2 increases LPA production, while knockdown of PLD2 blocks EGF-induced LPA production. A phospholipase A2 (PLA2) inhibitor also blocks LPA- and EGF-induced LPA production. These results indicate that EGF stimulates LPA production in a manner that requires PLD2, and suggest that cross-talk can occur bidirectionally between EGF and LPA receptors.

Interactions between signal-transducing proteins measured by atomic force microscopy

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been used to study the specific interactions between the signal-transducing proteins mammalian phospholipase D1 (PLD1), phospholipase C-gamma1 (PLC-gamma1), and Munc-18-1. To record the forces between them, the Phox homology (PX) domain of PLD1, the Src homology (SH3) domain of PLC-gamma1, and Munc-18-1 were fused with glutathione S-transferase (GST) and immobilized onto reduced glutathione (GSH)-tethered surfaces. In order to enhance the recognition efficiency and avoid undesirable complications, both AFM tips and substrates were first modified with dendrons of two different sizes. Under the employed conditions, the probability of observing an unbinding event increased, most force-distance curves showed the single rupture events, and the unbinding forces were 51 +/- 2 pN for PX-(Munc-18-1) and 42 +/- 2 pN for PX-SH3. To investigate dynamics of these biomolecular interactions, we measured the loading rate dependence of the unbinding forces. The unbinding forces increased linearly with the logarithm of the loading rate, indicating the presence of a single potential barrier in the dissociation energy landscape. The measured off-rate constants (k(off)) at 15 degrees C were 10(-3.4 +/- 0.3) s(-1) for PX-(Munc-18-1) and 10(-1.7 +/- 0.1) s(-1) for PX-SH3. Further, we elucidated the influence of free SH3 and Munc-18-1 on the specific PX-(Munc-18-1) and PX-SH3 interaction, respectively.

PLC-gamma1 and Rac1 coregulate EGF-induced cytoskeleton remodeling and cell migration

It is well established that epidermal growth factor (EGF) induces the cytoskeleton reorganization and cell migration through two major signaling cascades: phospholipase C-gamma1 (PLC-gamma1) and Rho GTPases. However, little is known about the cross talk between PLC-gamma1 and Rho GTPases. Here we showed that PLC-gamma1 forms a complex with Rac1 in response to EGF. This interaction is direct and mediated by PLC-gamma1 Src homology 3 (SH3) domain and Rac1 (106)PNTP(109) motif. This interaction is critical for EGF-induced Rac1 activation in vivo, and PLC-gamma1 SH3 domain is actually a potent and specific Rac1 guanine nucleotide exchange factor in vitro. We have also demonstrated that the interaction between PLC-gamma1 SH3 domain and Rac1 play a significant role in EGF-induced F-actin formation and cell migration. We conclude that PLC-gamma1 and Rac1 coregulate EGF-induced cell cytoskeleton remodeling and cell migration by a direct functional interaction.

Protein kinase Cepsilon may act as EGF-inducible scaffold protein for phospholipase Cgamma1

Phospholipase Cgamma1 (PLCgamma1) represents a major downstream signalling component of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) and is activated by tyrosine phosphorylation. Here we show for the first time that cellular knockdown of protein kinase Cepsilon (PKCepsilon) leads to decreased activation of PLCgamma1 by EGF and that EGF induces tyrosine phosphorylation of PKCepsilon as well as association of PKCepsilon with both EGFR and PLCgamma1. Using several mutants, co-immunoprecipitation and phosphopeptide-based pull-down experiments we found that in dependency on c-Src and EGF-stimulation PKCepsilon may bind to the c-Src-specific phosphorylation site pY845-EGFR. Furthermore, we identified a single tyrosine residue, PKCepsilon-Y573, within a consensus binding sequence of the C-terminal SH2 domain of PLCgamma1 which is critical for both tyrosine phosphorylation of PKCepsilon and its association with PLCgamma1. Thus, in particular cells and independent of the kinase activity PKCepsilon may form a signalling module with EGFR and PLCgamma1. Thereby the tyrosine phosphorylation of PLCgamma1 via the EGFR may be facilitated. This is a novel function of PKCepsilon upstream of PLCgamma1 and a novel paradigm for the EGF-induced formation of multi-protein complexes.

Understanding phospholipase D (PLD) using leukocytes: PLD involvement in cell adhesion and chemotaxis

Phospholipase D (PLD) is an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of membrane phosphatidylcholine to choline and phosphatidic acid (PA; a second messenger). PLD is expressed in nearly all types of leukocytes and has been associated with phagocytosis, degranulation, microbial killing, and leukocyte maturation. With the application of recently developed molecular tools (i.e., expression vectors, silencing RNA, and specific antibodies), the demonstration of a key role for PLD in those and related cellular actions has contributed to a better awareness of its importance. A case in point is the recent findings that RNA interference-mediated depletion of PLD results in impaired leukocyte adhesion and chemotaxis toward a gradient of chemokines, implying that PLD is necessary for leukocyte movement. We forecast that based on results such as those, leukocytes may prove to be useful tools to unravel still-unresolved mechanistic issues in the complex biology of PLD. Three such issues are considered here: first, whether the cellular actions of PLD are mediated entirely by PA (the product of its enzymatic reaction) or whether PLD by itself interacts with other protein signaling molecules; second, the current difficulty of defining a "PA consensus site" in the various intracellular protein targets of PA; and third, the resolution of specific PLD location (upstream or downstream) in a particular effector signaling cascade. There are reasons to expect that leukocytes and their leukemic cell line counterparts will continue yielding invaluable information to cell biologists to resolve standing molecular and functional issues concerning PLD.

Subcellular localization and function of alternatively spliced Noxo1 isoforms

Nox organizer 1 (Noxo1), a p47(phox) homolog, is produced as four isoforms with unique N-terminal PX domains derived by alternative mRNA splicing. We compared the subcellular distribution of these isoforms or their isolated PX domains produced as GFP fusion proteins, as well as their ability to support Nox1 activity in several transfected models. Noxo1alpha, beta, gamma, and delta show different subcellular localization patterns, determined by their PX domains. In HEK293 cells, Noxo1beta exhibits prominent plasma membrane binding, Noxo1gamma shows plasma membrane and nuclear associations, and Noxo1alpha and delta localize primarily on intracellular vesicles or cytoplasmic aggregates, but not the plasma membrane. Nox1 activity correlates with Noxo1 plasma membrane binding in HEK293 cells, since Noxo1beta supports the highest activity and Noxo1gamma and Noxo1alpha support moderate or low activities, respectively. In COS-7 cells, where Noxo1alpha localizes on the plasma membrane, the activities supported by the three isoforms (alpha, beta, and gamma) do not differ significantly. The PX domains of beta and gamma bind the same phospholipids, including phosphatidic acid. These results indicate that the variant PX domains are unique determinants of Noxo1 localization and Nox1 function. Finally, the overexpressed Noxo1 isoforms do not affect p22(phox) localization, although Nox1 is needed to transport p22(phox) to the plasma membrane.

Phospholipase D2 acts as an essential adaptor protein in the activation of Syk in antigen-stimulated mast cells

Mast cells are responsible for IgE-mediated allergic reactions. Phospholipase D1 (PLD1) and PLD2 regulate mast cell activation, but the mechanisms remain unclear. Here we show that PLD2 associates with and promotes activation of Syk, a key enzyme in mast cell activation. Antigen stimulation resulted in increased association and colocalization of Syk with PLD2 on the plasma membrane as indicated by coimmunoprecipitation and confocal microscopy. This association was dependent on tyrosine phosphorylation of Syk but not on PLD2 activity. In vitro, PLD2 interacted via its Phox homology (PX) domain with recombinant Syk to induce phosphorylation and activation of Syk. Furthermore, overexpression of PLD2 or catalytically inactive PLD2K758R enhanced antigen-induced phosphorylations of Syk and its downstream targets, the adaptor proteins LAT and SLP-76, while expression of a PLD2 siRNA blocked these phosphorylations. Apparently, the interaction of PLD2 with Syk is an early critical event in the activation of mast cells.

Dynamic phospholipid signaling by G protein-coupled receptors

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) control a variety of fundamental cellular processes by regulating phospholipid signaling pathways. Essential for signaling by a large number of receptors is the hydrolysis of the membrane phosphoinositide PIP(2) by phospholipase C (PLC) into the second messengers IP(3) and DAG. Many receptors also stimulate phospholipase D (PLD), leading to the generation of the versatile lipid, phosphatidic acid. Particular PLC and PLD isoforms take differential positions in receptor signaling and are additionally regulated by small GTPases of the Ras, Rho and ARF families. It is now recognized that the PLC substrate, PIP(2), has signaling capacity by itself and can, by direct interaction, affect the activity and subcellular localization of PLD and several other proteins. As expected, the synthesis of PIP(2) by phosphoinositide 5-kinases is tightly regulated as well. In this review, we present an overview of how these signaling pathways are governed by GPCRs, explain the molecular basis for the spatially and temporally organized, highly dynamic quality of phospholipid signaling, and point to the functional connection of the pathways.

The elucidation of novel SH2 binding sites on PLD2

Our laboratory has recently reported that the enzyme phospholipase D2 (PLD2) exists as a ternary complex with PTP1b and the growth factor receptor bound protein 2 (Grb2). Here, we establish the mechanistic underpinnings of the PLD2/Grb2 association. We have identified residues Y(169) and Y(179) in the PLD2 protein as being essential for the Grb2 interaction. We present evidence indicating that Y(169) and Y(179) are located within two consensus sites in PLD2 that mediate an SH2 interaction with Grb2. This was demonstrated with an SH2-deficient GSTGrb2 R86K mutant that failed to pull-down PLD2 in vitro. In order to elucidate the functions of the two neighboring tyrosines, we created a new class of deletion and point mutants in PLD2. Phenylalanine replacement of Y(169) (PLD2 Y169F) or Y(179) (PLD2 Y179F) reduced Grb2 binding while simultaneous mutation completely abolished it. The role of the two binding sites on PLD2 was found to be functionally nonequivalent: Y(169) serves to modulate the activity of the enzyme, whereas Y(179) regulates total tyrosine phosphorylation of the protein. Interestingly, binding of Grb2 to PLD2 occurs irrespectively of lipase activity, since Grb2 binds to catalytically inactive PLD2 mutants. Finally, PLD2 residues Y(169) and Y(179) are necessary for the recruitment of Sos, but only overexpression of the PLD2 Y179F mutant resulted in increased Ras activity, p44/42(Erk) phosphorylation and enhanced DNA synthesis. Since Y(169) remains able to modulate enzyme activity and is capable of binding to Grb2 in the PLD2 Y179F mutant, we propose that Y(169) is kept under negative regulation by Y(179). When this is released, Y(169) mediates cellular proliferation through the Ras/MAPK pathway.

The phox homology domain of phospholipase D activates dynamin GTPase activity and accelerates EGFR endocytosis

Dynamin is a large GTP-binding protein that mediates endocytosis by hydrolyzing GTP. Previously, we reported that phospholipase D2 (PLD2) interacts with dynamin in a GTP-dependent manner. This implies that PLD may regulate the GTPase cycle of dynamin. Here, we show that PLD functions as a GTPase activating protein (GAP) through its phox homology domain (PX), which directly activates the GTPase domain of dynamin, and that the arginine residues in the PLD-PX are vital for this GAP function. Moreover, wild-type PLD-PX, but not mutated PLD-PXs defective for GAP function in vitro, increased epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) endocytosis at physiological EGF concentrations. In addition, the silencing of PLDs was shown to retard EGFR endocytosis and the addition of wild-type PLDs or lipase-inactive PLDs, but not PLD1 mutants with defective GAP activity for dynamin in vitro, resulted in the recovery of EGFR endocytosis. These findings suggest that PLD, functioning as an intermolecular GAP for dynamin, accelerates EGFR endocytosis. Moreover, we determined that the phox homology domain itself had GAP activity - a novel function in addition to its role as a binding motif for proteins or lipids.

Phospholipase D1 regulates cell migration in a lipase activity-independent manner

Cell migration, a complex biological process, requires dynamic cytoskeletal remodeling. Phospholipase D (PLD) generates phosphatidic acid, a lipid second messenger. Although PLD activity has been proposed to play a role in cytoskeletal rearrangement, the manner in which PLD participates in the rearrangement process remains obscure. In this study, by silencing endogenous PLD isozymes using small interfering RNA in HeLa cells, we demonstrate that endogenous PLD1 is required for the normal organization of the actin cytoskeleton, and, more importantly, for cell motility. PLD1 silencing in HeLa cells resulted in dramatic changes in cellular morphology, including the accumulation of stress fibers, as well as cell elongation and flattening, which appeared to be caused by an increased number of focal adhesions, which ultimately culminated in enhanced cell-substratum interactions. Accordingly, serum-induced cell migration was profoundly inhibited by PLD1-silencing. Moreover, the augmented cell substratum interaction and retarded cell migration induced by PLD1-silencing could be restored by the adding back not only of wild type, but also of lipase-inactive PLD1 into knockdown cells. Taken together, our results strongly suggest that endogenous PLD1 is a critical factor in the organization of the actin-based cytoskeleton, with regard to cell adhesion and migration. These effects of PLD1 appear to operate in a lipase activity-independent manner. We also discuss the regulation of Src family kinases by PLD1, as related to the modulation of Pyk2 and cell migration.

Akt binds to and phosphorylates phospholipase C-gamma1 in response to epidermal growth factor

Both phospholipase (PL) C-gamma1 and Akt (protein kinase B; PKB) are signaling proteins that play significant roles in the intracellular signaling mechanism used by receptor tyrosine kinases, including epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR). EGFR activates PLC-gamma1 directly and activates Akt indirectly through phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). Many studies have shown that the PLC-gamma1 pathway and PI3K-Akt pathway interact with each other. However, it is not known whether PLC-gamma1 binds to Akt directly. In this communication, we identified a novel interaction between PLC-gamma1 and Akt. We demonstrated that the interaction is mediated by the binding of PLC-gamma1 Src homology (SH) 3 domain to Akt proline-rich motifs. We also provide a novel model to depict how the interaction between PLC-gamma1 SH3 domain and Akt proline-rich motifs is dependent on EGF stimulation. In this model, phosphorylation of PLC-gamma1 Y783 by EGF causes the conformational change of PLC-gamma1 to allow the interaction of its SH3 domain with Akt proline-rich motifs. Furthermore, we showed that the interaction between PLC-gamma1 and Akt resulted in the phosphorylation of PLC-gamma1 S1248 by Akt. Finally, we showed that the interaction between PLC-gamma1 and Akt enhanced EGF-stimulated cell motility.

Phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate specifically interacts with the phox homology domain of phospholipase D1 and stimulates its activity

Phospholipase D (PLD), which catalyzes the hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine to phosphatidic acid and choline, plays key roles in cellular signal transduction by mediating extracellular stimuli including hormones, growth factors, neurotransmitters, cytokines and extracellular matrix molecules. The molecular mechanisms by which domains regulate the activity of PLD - especially the phox homology (PX) domain - have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we have examined the properties of the PX domains of PLD1 and PLD2 in terms of phosphoinositide binding and PLD activity regulation. Interestingly, the PX domain of PLD1, but not that of PLD2, was found to specifically interact with phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate (PtdIns(3,4,5)P3). We found that mutation of the conserved arginine at position 179 of the PLD1 PX domain to lysine or to alanine (R179A or R179K, respectively) disrupts PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 binding. In NIH-3T3 cells, the EGFP-PLD1 PX wild-type domain, but not the two mutants, localized to the plasma membrane after 5-minute treatment with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). The enzymatic activity of PLD1 was stimulated by adding PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 in vitro. Treatment with PDGF resulted in the significant increase of PLD1 activity and phosphorylation of the downstream extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs), which was blocked by pre-treatment of HEK 293 cells with phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor after the endogenous PLD2 had been depleted by siRNA specific for PLD2. Nevertheless, both PLD1 mutants (which cannot interact with PtdIns(3,4,5)P3) did not respond to treatment with PDGF. Moreover, PLD1 was activated in HepG2 cells stably expressing the Y40/51 mutant of PDGF receptor that is required for the binding with PI3K. Our results suggest that the PLD1 PX domain enables PLD1 to mediate signal transduction via ERK1/2 by providing a direct binding site for PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 and by activating PLD1.

Novel functions of the phospholipase D2-Phox homology domain in protein kinase Czeta activation

It has been established that protein kinase Czeta (PKCzeta) participates in diverse signaling pathways and cellular functions in a wide variety of cells, exhibiting properties relevant to cellular survival and proliferation. Currently, however, the regulation mechanism of PKCzeta remains elusive. Here, for the first time, we determine that phospholipase D2 (PLD2) enhances PKCzeta activity through direct interaction in a lipase activity-independent manner. This interaction of the PLD2-Phox homology (PX) domain with the PKCzeta-kinase domain also induces the activation loop phosphorylation of PKCzeta and downstream signal stimulation, as measured by p70 S6 kinase phosphorylation. Furthermore, only the PLD2-PX domain directly stimulates PKCzeta activity in vitro, and it is necessary for the formation of the ternary complex with phosphoinositide-dependent kinase 1 and PKCzeta. The mutant that substitutes the triple lysine residues (Lys101, Lys102, and Lys103) within the PLD2-PX domain with alanine abolishes interaction with the PKCzeta-kinase domain and activation of PKCzeta. Moreover, breast cancer cell viability is significantly affected by PLD2 silencing. Taken together, these results suggest that the PLD2-mediated PKCzeta activation is induced by its PX domain performing both direct activation of PKCzeta and assistance of activation loop phosphorylation. Furthermore, we find it is an important factor in the survival of breast cancer cells.

Mechanism of Membrane Binding of the Phospholipase D1 PX Domain

Mammalian phospholipases D (PLD), which catalyze the hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine to phosphatidic acid (PA), have been implicated in various cell signaling and vesicle trafficking processes. Mammalian PLD1 contains two different membrane-targeting domains, pleckstrin homology and Phox homology (PX) domains, but the precise roles of these domains in the membrane binding and activation of PLD1 are still unclear. To elucidate the role of the PX domain in PLD1 activation, we constructed a structural model of the PX domain by homology modeling and measured the membrane binding of this domain and selected mutants by surface plasmon resonance analysis. The PLD1 PX domain was found to have high phosphoinositide specificity, i.e. phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PtdIns-(3,4,5)P(3)) >> phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate > phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate >> other phosphoinositides. The PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3) binding was facilitated by the cationic residues (Lys(119), Lys(121), and Arg(179)) in the putative binding pocket. Consistent with the model structure that suggests the presence of a second lipid-binding pocket, vesicle binding studies indicated that the PLD1 PX domain could also bind with moderate affinity to PA, phosphatidylserine, and other anionic lipids, which were mediated by a cluster of cationic residues in the secondary binding site. Simultaneous occupancy of both binding pockets synergistically increases membrane affinity of the PX domain. Electrostatic potential calculations suggest that a highly positive potential near the secondary binding site may facilitate the initial adsorption of the domain to the anionic membrane, which is followed by the binding of PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3) to its binding pocket. Collectively, our results suggest that the interaction of the PLD1 PX domain with PtdIns(3,4,5)P(3) and/or PA (or phosphatidylserine) may be an important factor in the spatiotemporal regulation and activation of PLD1.

Phospholipase C, protein kinase C, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II, and redox state are involved in epigallocatechin gallate-induced phospholipase D activation in human astroglioma cells

We show that epigallocatechin-3 gallate (EGCG), a major component of green tea, stimulates phospholipase D (PLD) activity in U87 human astroglioma cells. EGCG-induced PLD activation was abolished by the phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor and a lipase inactive PLC-gamma1 mutant, which is dependent on intracellular or extracellular Ca(2+), with the possible involvement of Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaM kinase II). EGCG induced translocation of PLC-gamma1 from the cytosol to the membrane and PLC-gamma1 interaction with PLD1. EGCG regulates the activity of PLD by modulating the redox state of the cells, and antioxidants reverse this effect. Moreover, EGCG-induced PLD activation was reduced by PKC inhibitors or down-regulation of PKC. Taken together, these results show that, in human astroglioma cells, EGCG regulates PLD activity via a signaling pathway involving changes in the redox state that stimulates a PLC-gamma1 [Ins(1,4,5)P(3)-Ca(2+)]-CaM kinase II-PLD pathway and a PLC-gamma1 (diacylglycerol)-PKC-PLD pathway.

Identification of Phospholipase C-γ1 as a Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase Substrate

The discovery of sequence motifs that mediate protein-protein interactions, coupled with the availability of protein amino acid sequence data, allows for the identification of putative protein binding pairs. The present studies were based on our identification of an amino acid sequence in phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C-gamma1 (PLC-gamma1) that fits the consensus sequence for a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) binding site, termed the D-domain. Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2), an MAPK, and phospho-ERK2 were bound by an immobilized peptide sequence containing the identified PLC-gamma1 D-domain. Furthermore, a peptide containing the PLC-gamma1 D-domain was able to competitively inhibit the in vitro phosphorylation of recombinant PLC-gamma1 by recombinant phospho-ERK2, whereas a control peptide derived from a distant region of PLC-gamma1 was ineffective. Similarly, the peptide containing the PLC-gamma1 D-domain, but not the control peptide, competitively inhibited the in vitro phosphorylation of Elk-1 and c-Jun catalyzed by recombinant phospho-ERK2 and phospho-c-Jun N-terminal kinase 3 (phospho-JNK3), another type of MAPK, respectively. Incubation of anti-PLC-gamma1 immunocomplexes isolated from rat brain with recombinant phospho-ERK2 opposed the increase in PLC-gamma1-catalyzed hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-P(2) (PtdIns(4,5)P(2)), which was produced by a tyrosine kinase associated with the immunocomplexes, whereas in vitro phosphorylation of recombinant PLC-gamma1 by recombinant phospho-ERK2 did not alter PLC-gamma1-catalyzed PtdIns(4,5)P(2) hydrolysis. These studies have uncovered a previously unidentified mechanism for the integration of PLC-gamma1- and ERK2-dependent signaling.

Munc-18-1 Inhibits Phospholipase D Activity by Direct Interaction in an Epidermal Growth Factor-reversible Manner

Mammalian phospholipase D (PLD) has been reported to be a key enzyme for epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced cellular signaling, however, the regulatory mechanism of PLD is still unclear. In this report, we found that Munc-18-1 is a potent negative regulator of PLD in the basal state and that its inhibition is abolished by EGF stimulation. We investigated PLD-binding proteins obtained from rat brain extract, and identified a 67-kDa protein as Munc-18-1 by peptide-mass finger-printing. The direct association between PLD and Munc-18-1 was confirmed by in vitro binding analysis using the purified proteins, and their binding sites were identified as the phox homology domain of PLD and multiple sites of Munc-18-1. PLD activity was potently inhibited by Munc-18-1 in vitro (IC50 = 2-5 nm), and the cotransfection of COS-7 cells with Munc-18-1 and PLD inhibited basal PLD activity in vivo. In the basal state, Munc-18-1 coprecipitated with PLD and colocalized with PLD2 at the plasma membrane of COS-7 cells. EGF treatment triggered the dissociation of Munc-18-1 from PLD when PLD was activated by EGF. The dissociation of the endogenous interaction between Munc-18-1 and PLD, and the activation of PLD by EGF were also observed in primary cultured chromaffin cells. These results suggest that Munc-18-1 is a potent negative regulator of basal PLD activity and that EGF stimulation abolishes this interaction.

Regulation of phospholipase D2 activity by protein kinase C alpha

It has been well documented that protein kinase C (PKC) plays an important role in regulation of phospholipase D (PLD) activity. Although PKC regulation of PLD1 activity has been studied extensively, the role of PKC in PLD2 regulation remains to be established. In the present study it was demonstrated that phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) induced PLD2 activation in COS-7 cells. PLD2 was also phosphorylated on both serine and threonine residues after PMA treatment. PKC inhibitors Ro-31-8220 and bisindolylmaleimide I inhibited both PMA-induced PLD2 phosphorylation and activation. However, Gö 6976, a PKC inhibitor relatively specific for conventional PKC isoforms, almost completely abolished PLD2 phosphorylation by PMA but only slightly inhibited PLD2 activation. Furthermore, time course studies showed that phosphorylation of PLD2 lagged behind its activation by PMA. Concentration curves for PMA action on PLD2 phosphorylation and activation also showed that PLD2 was activated by PMA at concentrations at which PMA didn't induce phosphorylation. A kinase-deficient mutant of PKCalpha stimulated PLD2 activity to an even higher level than wild type PKCalpha. Co-expression of wild type PKCalpha, but not PKCdelta, greatly enhanced both basal and PMA-induced PLD2 phosphorylation. A PKCdelta-specific inhibitor, rottlerin, failed to inhibit PMA-induced PLD2 phosphorylation and activation. Co-immunoprecipitation studies indicated an association between PLD2 and PKCalpha under basal conditions that was further enhanced by PMA. Time course studies of the effects of PKCalpha on PLD2 showed that as the phosphorylation of PLD2 increased, its activity declined. In summary, the data demonstrated that PLD2 is activated and phosphorylated by PMA and PKCalpha in COS-7 cells. However, the phosphorylation is not required for PKCalpha to activate PLD2. It is suggested that interaction rather than phosphorylation underscores the activation of PLD2 by PKC in vivo and that phosphorylation may contribute to the inactivation of the enzyme.

Immunohistochemical localization of phospholipase D2 in embryonic rat brain

The present study has characterized the cellular and temporal localization of the phospholipase D2 (PLD2) protein in the embryonic rat brain, using immunohistochemistry. PLD2 immunoreactivity was first observed in the choroid plexus and in the most ventricular zone of the lateral and third ventricles at embryonic day 15 (E15), followed by gradual restriction to the limited zone of ventricles at E20. In addition, PLD2 expression was high in the developing cerebral cortex and hippocampus. In the cortex, PLD2 expression was observed in the marginal zone from the earliest stage (E15) and then declined and had completely disappeared by E20. Double-labelling studies demonstrated co-expression of the anti-class III beta-tubulin antibody in most of the PLD2 immunoreactive cells. Therefore, our findings suggest that PLD2 may be involved in early developmental processes of some neuronal progenitors.