Different subcellular localizations for the related interferon-induced GTPases, MuGBP-1 and MuGBP-2: implications for different functions?

iNOS is necessary for GBP-mediated T. gondii clearance in murine macrophages via vacuole nitration and intravacuolar network collapse

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite of rodents and humans. Interferon-inducible guanylate binding proteins (GBPs) are mediators of T. gondii clearance, however, this mechanism is incomplete. Here, using automated spatially targeted optical micro proteomics we demonstrate that inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS) is highly enriched at GBP2+ parasitophorous vacuoles (PV) in murine macrophages. iNOS expression in macrophages is necessary to limit T. gondii load in vivo and in vitro. Although iNOS activity is dispensable for GBP2 recruitment and PV membrane ruffling; parasites can replicate, egress and shed GBP2 when iNOS is inhibited. T. gondii clearance by iNOS requires nitric oxide, leading to nitration of the PV and collapse of the intravacuolar network of membranes in a chromosome 3 GBP-dependent manner. We conclude that reactive nitrogen species generated by iNOS cooperate with GBPs to target distinct structures in the PV that are necessary for optimal parasite clearance in macrophages.

Evolutionary and functional characterization of lagomorph guanylate-binding proteins: a story of gain and loss and shedding light on expression, localization and innate immunity-related functions

Guanylate binding proteins (GBPs) are an evolutionarily ancient family of proteins that are widely distributed among eukaryotes. They belong to the dynamin superfamily of GTPases, and their expression can be partially induced by interferons (IFNs). GBPs are involved in the cell-autonomous innate immune response against bacterial, parasitic and viral infections. Evolutionary studies have shown that GBPs exhibit a pattern of gene gain and loss events, indicative for the birth-and-death model of evolution. Most species harbor large GBP gene clusters that encode multiple paralogs. Previous functional and in-depth evolutionary studies have mainly focused on murine and human GBPs. Since rabbits are another important model system for studying human diseases, we focus here on lagomorphs to broaden our understanding of the multifunctional GBP protein family by conducting evolutionary analyses and performing a molecular and functional characterization of rabbit GBPs. We observed that lagomorphs lack GBP3, 6 and 7. Furthermore, Leporidae experienced a loss of GBP2, a unique duplication of GBP5 and a massive expansion of GBP4. Gene expression analysis by reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and transcriptome data revealed that leporid GBP expression varied across tissues. Overexpressed rabbit GBPs localized either uniformly and/or discretely to the cytoplasm and/or to the nucleus. Oryctolagus cuniculus (oc)GBP5L1 and rarely ocGBP5L2 were an exception, colocalizing with the trans-Golgi network (TGN). In addition, four ocGBPs were IFN-inducible and only ocGBP5L2 inhibited furin activity. In conclusion, from an evolutionary perspective, lagomorph GBPs experienced multiple gain and loss events, and the molecular and functional characteristics of ocGBP suggest a role in innate immunity.

Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is necessary for GBP-mediated T. gondii restriction in murine macrophages via vacuole nitration and intravacuolar network collapse

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular, protozoan pathogen of rodents and humans. T. gondii's ability to grow within cells and evade cell-autonomous immunity depends on the integrity of the parasitophorous vacuole (PV). Interferon-inducible guanylate binding proteins (GBPs) are central mediators of T. gondii clearance, however, the precise mechanism linking GBP recruitment to the PV and T. gondii restriction is not clear. This knowledge gap is linked to heterogenous GBP-targeting across a population of vacuoles and the lack of tools to selectively purify the intact PV. To identify mediators of parasite clearance associated with GBP2-positive vacuoles, we employed a novel protein discovery tool automated spatially targeted optical micro proteomics (autoSTOMP). This approach identified inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS) enriched at levels similar to the GBPs in infected bone marrow-derived myeloid cells. iNOS expression on myeloid cells was necessary for mice to control T. gondii growth in vivo and survive acute infection. T. gondii infection of IFNγ-primed macrophage was sufficient to robustly induce iNOS expression. iNOS restricted T. gondii infection through nitric oxide synthesis rather than arginine depletion, leading to robust and selective nitration of the PV. Optimal parasite restriction by iNOS and vacuole nitration depended on the chromosome 3 GBPs. Notably, GBP2 recruitment and ruffling of the PV membrane occurred in iNOS knockouts, however, these vacuoles contained dividing parasites. iNOS activity was necessary for the collapse of the intravacuolar network of nanotubular membranes which connects parasites to each other and the host cytosol. Based on these data we conclude reactive nitrogen species generated by iNOS cooperate with the chromosome 3 GBPs to target distinct biology of the PV that are necessary for optimal parasite clearance in murine myeloid cells.

The Large GTPase, GBP-2, Regulates Rho Family GTPases to Inhibit Migration and Invadosome Formation in Breast Cancer Cells

Simple Summary

Too many women still die of breast cancer each year. Those breast cancers that kill are those with cells that have migrated away from the primary tumor in the breast and established new tumors at other sites in the body. These tumors are not reached when the original tumor in the breast is removed. This study was designed to determine why some breast cancers move away from their primary tumor and others do not. We have identified a protein that inhibits this movement. Understanding this finding may provide us with ways to inhibit tumor cell movement in patients.

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Despite advances in early detection and treatment, it is predicted that over 43,000 women will die of breast cancer in 2021. To lower this number, more information about the molecular players in breast cancer are needed. Guanylate-Binding Protein-2 has been correlated with better prognosis in breast cancer. In this study, we asked if the expression of GBP-2 in breast cancer merely provided a biomarker for improved prognosis or whether it actually contributed to improving outcome. To answer this, the 4T1 model of murine breast cancer was used. 4T1 cells themselves are highly aggressive and highly metastatic, while 67NR cells, isolated from the same tumor, do not leave the primary site. The expression of GBP-2 was examined in the two cell lines and found to be inversely correlated with aggressiveness/metastasis. Proliferation, migration, and invadosome formation were analyzed after altering the expression levels of GBP-2. Our experiments show that GBP-2 does not alter the proliferation of these cells but inhibits migration and invadosome formation downstream of regulation of Rho GTPases. Together these data demonstrate that GBP-2 is responsible for cell autonomous activities that make breast cancer cells less aggressive.

Interferon-induced GTPases orchestrate host cell-autonomous defence against bacterial pathogens

Interferon (IFN)-induced guanosine triphosphate hydrolysing enzymes (GTPases) have been identified as cornerstones of IFN-mediated cell-autonomous defence. Upon IFN stimulation, these GTPases are highly expressed in various host cells, where they orchestrate anti-microbial activities against a diverse range of pathogens such as bacteria, protozoan and viruses. IFN-induced GTPases have been shown to interact with various host pathways and proteins mediating pathogen control via inflammasome activation, destabilising pathogen compartments and membranes, orchestrating destruction via autophagy and the production of reactive oxygen species as well as inhibiting pathogen mobility. In this mini-review, we provide an update on how the IFN-induced GTPases target pathogens and mediate host defence, emphasising findings on protection against bacterial pathogens.

Guanylate Binding Proteins Restrict Leishmania donovani Growth in Nonphagocytic Cells Independent of Parasitophorous Vacuolar Targeting

Interferon (IFN)-inducible guanylate binding proteins (GBPs) play important roles in host defense against many intracellular pathogens that reside within pathogen-containing vacuoles (PVs). For instance, members of the GBP family translocate to PVs occupied by the protozoan pathogen Toxoplasma and facilitate PV disruption and lytic parasite killing. While the GBP defense program targeting Toxoplasma has been studied in some detail, the role of GBPs in host defense to other protozoan pathogens is poorly characterized. Here, we report a critical role for both mouse and human GBPs in the cell-autonomous immune response against the vector-borne parasite Leishmania donovani Although L. donovani can infect both phagocytic and nonphagocytic cells, it predominantly replicates inside professional phagocytes. The underlying basis for this cell type tropism is unclear. Here, we demonstrate that GBPs restrict growth of L. donovani in both mouse and human nonphagocytic cells. GBP-mediated restriction of L. donovani replication occurs via a noncanonical pathway that operates independent of detectable translocation of GBPs to L. donovan-containing vacuoles (LCVs). Instead of promoting the lytic destruction of PVs, as reported for GBP-mediated killing of Toxoplasma in phagocytic cells, GBPs facilitate the delivery of L. donovani into autolysosomal-marker-positive compartments in mouse embryonic fibroblasts as well as the human epithelial cell line A549. Together our results show that GBPs control a novel cell-autonomous host defense program, which renders nonphagocytic cells nonpermissible for efficient Leishmania replication.IMPORTANCE The obligate intracellular parasite Leishmania causes the disease leishmaniasis, which is transmitted to mammalian hosts, including humans, via the sandfly vector. Following the bite-induced breach of the skin barrier, Leishmania is known to live and replicate predominantly inside professional phagocytes. Although Leishmania is also able to infect nonphagocytic cells, nonphagocytic cells support limited parasitic replication for unknown reasons. In this study, we show that nonphagocytic cells possess an intrinsic property to restrict Leishmania growth. Our study defines a novel role for a family of host defense proteins, the guanylate binding proteins (GBPs), in antileishmanial immunity. Mechanistically, our data indicate that GBPs facilitate the delivery of Leishmania into antimicrobial autolysosomes, thereby enhancing parasite clearance in nonphagocytic cells. We propose that this GBP-dependent host defense program makes nonphagocytic cells an inhospitable host cell type for Leishmania growth.

Biochemical and structural characterization of murine GBP7, a guanylate binding protein with an elongated C-terminal tail

Guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) constitute a family of interferon-inducible guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) that are key players in host defense against intracellular pathogens ranging from protozoa to bacteria and viruses. So far, human GBP1 and GBP5 as well as murine GBP2 (mGBP2) have been biochemically characterized in detail. Here, with murine GBP7 (mGBP7), a GBP family member with an unconventional and elongated C-terminus is analyzed. The present study demonstrates that mGBP7 exhibits a concentration-dependent GTPase activity and an apparent GTP turnover number of 20 min-1. In addition, fluorescence spectroscopy analyses reveal that mGBP7 binds GTP with high affinity (KD = 0.22 µM) and GTPase activity assays indicate that mGBP7 hydrolyzes GTP to GDP and GMP. The mGBP7 GTPase activity is inhibited by incubation with γ-phosphate analogs and a K51A mutation interfering with GTP binding. SEC-MALS analyses give evidence that mGBP7 forms transient dimers and that this oligomerization pattern is not influenced by the presence of nucleotides. Moreover, a structural model for mGBP7 is provided by homology modeling, which shows that the GTPase possesses an elongated C-terminal (CT) tail compared with the CaaX motif-containing mGBP2 and human GBP1. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that this tail has transmembrane characteristics and, interestingly, confocal microscopy analyses reveal that the CT tail is required for recruitment of mGBP7 to the parasitophorous vacuole of Toxoplasma gondii.

The Molecular Mechanism of Polymer Formation of Farnesylated Human Guanylate-binding Protein 1

The human guanylate-binding protein 1 (hGBP1) belongs to the dynamin superfamily proteins and represents a key player in the innate immune response. Farnesylation at the C-terminus is required for hGBP1's activity against microbial pathogens, as well as for its antiproliferative and antitumor activity. The farnesylated hGBP1 (hGBP1_fn) retains many characteristics of the extensively studied nonfarnesylated protein and gains additional abilities like binding to lipid membranes and formation of hGBP1_fn polymers. These polymers are believed to serve as a protein depot, making the enzyme immediately available to fight the invasion of intracellular pathogens. Here we study the molecular mechanism of hGBP1 polymer formation as it is a crucial state of this enzyme, allowing for a rapid response demanded by the biological function. We employ Förster resonance energy transfer in order to trace intra and intermolecular distance changes of protein domains. Light scattering techniques yield deep insights into the changes in size and shape. The GTP hydrolysis driven cycling between a closed, farnesyl moiety hidden state and an opened, farnesyl moiety exposed state represents the first phase, preparing the molecule for polymerization. Within the second phase of polymer growth, opened hGBP1 molecules can be incorporated in the growing polymer where the opened structure is stabilized, similar to a surfactant molecule in a micelle, pointing the farnesyl moieties into the hydrophobic center and positioning the head groups at the periphery of the polymer. We contribute the molecular mechanism of polymer formation, paving the ground for a detailed understanding of hGBP1 function.

Essential Role of mGBP7 for Survival of Toxoplasma gondii Infection

Guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) are induced by the inflammatory cytokine interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and have been shown to be important factors in the defense of the intracellular pathogen Toxoplasma gondii. In previous studies, we showed that members of the mouse GBP family, such as mGBP2 and mGBP7, accumulate at the parasitophorous vacuole of T. gondii, which is the replicatory niche of the parasite. In this study, we show that mice deficient in mGBP7 succumb early after infection with T. gondii, showing a complete failure of resistance to the pathogen. On a molecular level, mGBP7 is found directly at the parasite, likely mediating its destruction.

Members of the murine guanylate-binding protein family (mGBP) are induced by interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and have been shown to be important factors in cell-autonomous immunity toward the intracellular pathogen Toxoplasma gondii. Previously, we identified that mGBP2 mediates disruption of the parasitophorous vacuole membrane (PVM) and directly assaults the plasma membrane of the parasite. Here, we show that mGBP7-deficient mice are highly susceptible to T. gondii infection. This is demonstrated by the loss of parasite replication control, pronounced development of ascites, and death of the animals in the acute infection phase. Interestingly, live-cell microscopy revealed that mGBP7 recruitment to the PVM occurs after mGBP2 recruitment, followed by disruption of the PVM and T. gondii integrity and accumulation of mGBP7 inside the parasite. This study defines mGBP7 as a crucial effector protein in resistance to intracellular T. gondii.

Guanylate-binding proteins at the crossroad of noncanonical inflammasome activation during bacterial infections

The immune system is armed with a broad range of receptors to detect and initiate the elimination of bacterial pathogens. Inflammasomes are molecular platforms that sense a diverse range of microbial insults to develop appropriate host response. In that context, noncanonical inflammasome arose as a sensor for Gram-negative bacteria-derived LPS leading to the control of infections. This review describes the role of caspase-11/gasdermin-D-dependent immune response against Gram-negative bacteria and presents an overview of guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) at the interface of noncanonical inflammasome activation. Indeed, caspase-11 acts as a receptor for LPS and this interaction elicits caspase-11 autoproteolysis that is required for its optimal catalytic activity. Gasdermin-D is cleaved by activated caspase-11 generating an N-terminal domain that is inserted into the plasmatic membrane to form pores that induce pyroptosis, a cell death program involved in intracellular bacteria elimination. This mechanism also promotes IL-1β release and potassium efflux that connects caspase-11 to NLRP3 activation. Furthermore, GBPs display many features to allow LPS recognition by caspase-11, initiating the noncanonical inflammasome response prompting the immune system to control bacterial infections. In this review, we discuss the recent findings and nuances related to this mechanism and its biological functions.

Regulation of innate immune functions by guanylate-binding proteins

Guanylate-binding proteins (GBP) are a family of dynamin-related large GTPases which are expressed in response to interferons and other pro-inflammatory cytokines. GBPs mediate a broad spectrum of innate immune functions against intracellular pathogens ranging from viruses to bacteria and protozoa. Several binding partners for individual GBPs have been identified and several different mechanisms of action have been proposed depending on the organisms, the cell type and the pathogen used. Many of these anti-pathogenic functions of GBPs involve the recruitment to and the subsequent destruction of pathogen containing vacuolar compartments, the assembly of large oligomeric innate immune complexes such as the inflammasome, or the induction of autophagy. Furthermore, GBPs often cooperate with immunity-related GTPases (IRGs), another family of dynamin-related GTPases, to exert their anti-pathogenic function, but since most IRGs have been lost in the evolution of higher primates, the anti-pathogenic function of human GBPs seems to be IRG-independent. GBPs and IRGs share biochemical and structural properties with the other members of the dynamin superfamily such as low nucleotide affinity and a high intrinsic GTPase activity which can be further enhanced by oligomerisation. Furthermore, GBPs and IRGs can interact with lipid membranes. In the case of three human and murine GBP isoforms this interaction is mediated by C-terminal isoprenylation. Based on cell biological studies, and in analogy to the function of other dynamins in membrane scission events, it has been postulated that both GBPs and IRGs might actively disrupt the outer membrane of pathogen-containing vacuole leading to the detection and destruction of the pathogen by the cytosolic innate immune system of the host. Recent evidence, however, indicates that GBPs might rather function by mediating membrane tethering events similar to the dynamin-related atlastin and mitofusin proteins, which mediate fusion of the ER and mitochondria, respectively. The aim of this review is to highlight the current knowledge on the function of GBPs in innate immunity and to combine it with the recent progress in the biochemical characterisation of this protein family.

Guanylate-binding protein 2 regulates Drp1-mediated mitochondrial fission to suppress breast cancer cell invasion

Guanylate-binding protein 2 (GBP2) is a member of the large GTPase superfamily that is strongly induced by interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Although the biochemical characteristics of GBP2 have been reported in detail, its biological function has not been thoroughly elucidated to date. To the best of our knowledge, this study presents the first demonstration that GBP2 inhibits mitochondrial fission and cell metastasis in breast cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Our previous work demonstrated that dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1)-dependent mitochondrial fission has a key role in breast cancer cell invasion. In this study, we demonstrate that GBP2 binds directly to Drp1. Elimination of Drp1 by shRNA or Mdivi-1 (a Drp1-specific inhibitor) suppressed GBP2's regulatory function. Furthermore, GBP2 blocks Drp1 translocation from the cytosol to mitochondria, thereby attenuating Drp1-dependent mitochondrial fission and breast cancer cell invasion. In summary, our data provide new insights into the function and molecular mechanisms underlying GBP2's regulation of breast cancer cell invasion.

Interferon-inducible guanylate-binding proteins at the interface of cell-autonomous immunity and inflammasome activation

Guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) are essential components of cell-autonomous immunity. In response to IFN signaling, GBPs are expressed in the cytoplasm of immune and nonimmune cells, where they unleash their antimicrobial activity toward intracellular bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Recent studies have revealed that GBPs are essential for mediating activation of the caspase-1 inflammasome in response to the gram-negative bacteria Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, Francisella novicida, Chlamydia muridarum, Chlamydia trachomatis, Legionella pneumophila, Vibrio cholerae, Enterobacter cloacae, and Citrobacter koseri During infection with vacuolar-restricted gram-negative bacteria, GBPs disrupt the vacuolar membrane to ensure liberation of LPS for cytoplasmic detection by caspase-11 and the noncanonical NLRP3 inflammasome. In response to certain cytosolic bacteria, GBPs liberate microbial DNA for activation of the DNA-sensing AIM2 inflammasome. GBPs also promote the recruitment of antimicrobial proteins, including NADPH oxidase subunits and autophagy-associated proteins to the Mycobacterium-containing vacuole to mediate intracellular bacterial killing. Here, we provide an overview on the emerging relationship between GBPs and activation of the inflammasome in innate immunity to microbial pathogens.

Interferon-Inducible GTPases in Host Resistance, Inflammation and Disease

Cell-autonomous immunity is essential for host organisms to defend themselves against invasive microbes. In vertebrates, both the adaptive and the innate branches of the immune system operate cell-autonomous defenses as key effector mechanisms that are induced by pro-inflammatory interferons (IFNs). IFNs can activate cell-intrinsic host defenses in virtually any cell type ranging from professional phagocytes to mucosal epithelial cells. Much of this IFN-induced host resistance program is dependent on four families of IFN-inducible GTPases: the myxovirus resistance proteins, the immunity-related GTPases, the guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs), and the very large IFN-inducible GTPases. These GTPase families provide host resistance to a variety of viral, bacterial, and protozoan pathogens through the sequestration of microbial proteins, manipulation of vesicle trafficking, regulation of antimicrobial autophagy (xenophagy), execution of intracellular membranolytic pathways, and the activation of inflammasomes. This review discusses our current knowledge of the molecular function of IFN-inducible GTPases in providing host resistance, as well as their role in the pathogenesis of autoinflammatory Crohn's disease. While substantial advances were made in the recent past, few of the known functions of IFN-inducible GTPases have been explored in any depth, and new functions await discovery. This review will therefore highlight key areas of future exploration that promise to advance our understanding of the role of IFN-inducible GTPases in human diseases.

Guanylate binding proteins directly attack Toxoplasma gondii via supramolecular complexes

GBPs are essential for immunity against intracellular pathogens, especially for Toxoplasma gondii control. Here, the molecular interactions of murine GBPs (mGBP1/2/3/5/6), homo- and hetero-multimerization properties of mGBP2 and its function in parasite killing were investigated by mutational, Multiparameter Fluorescence Image Spectroscopy, and live cell microscopy methodologies. Control of T. gondii replication by mGBP2 requires GTP hydrolysis and isoprenylation thus, enabling reversible oligomerization in vesicle-like structures. mGBP2 undergoes structural transitions between monomeric, dimeric and oligomeric states visualized by quantitative FRET analysis. mGBPs reside in at least two discrete subcellular reservoirs and attack the parasitophorous vacuole membrane (PVM) as orchestrated, supramolecular complexes forming large, densely packed multimers comprising up to several thousand monomers. This dramatic mGBP enrichment results in the loss of PVM integrity, followed by a direct assault of mGBP2 upon the plasma membrane of the parasite. These discoveries provide vital dynamic and molecular perceptions into cell-autonomous immunity.

Autophagy restricts Chlamydia trachomatis growth in human macrophages via IFNG-inducible guanylate binding proteins

Interferon γ (IFNG) is a key host response regulator of intracellular pathogen replication, including that of Chlamydia spp The antichlamydial functions of IFNG manifest in a strictly host, cell-type and chlamydial strain dependent manner. It has been recently shown that the IFNG-inducible family of immunity-related GTPases (IRG) proteins plays a key role in the defense against nonhost adapted chlamydia strains in murine epithelial cells. In humans, IFN-inducible guanylate binding proteins (hGBPs) have been shown to potentiate the antichlamydial effect of IFNG; however, how hGBPs regulate this property of IFNG is unknown. In this study, we identified hGBP1/2 as important resistance factors against C. trachomatis infection in IFNG-stimulated human macrophages. Exogenous IFNG reduced chlamydial infectivity by 50 percent in wild-type cells, whereas shRNA hGBP1/2 knockdown macrophages fully supported chlamydial growth in the presence of exogenous IFNG. hGBP1/2 were recruited to bacterial inclusions in human macrophages upon stimulation with IFNG, which triggered rerouting of the typically nonfusogenic bacterial inclusions for lysosomal degradation. Inhibition of lysosomal activity and autophagy impaired the IFNG-mediated elimination of inclusions. Thus, hGBP1/2 are critical effectors of antichlamydial IFNG responses in human macrophages. Through their capacity to remodel classically nonfusogenic chlamydial inclusions and stimulate fusion with autophagosomes, hGBP1/2 disable a major chlamydial virulence mechanism and contribute to IFNG-mediated pathogen clearance.

The GTPase activity of murine guanylate-binding protein 2 (mGBP2) controls the intracellular localization and recruitment to the parasitophorous vacuole of Toxoplasma gondii

One of the most abundantly IFN-γ-induced protein families in different cell types is the 65-kDa guanylate-binding protein family that is recruited to the parasitophorous vacuole of the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Here, we elucidate the relationship between biochemistry and cellular host defense functions of mGBP2 in response to Toxoplasma gondii. The wild type protein exhibits low affinities to guanine nucleotides, self-assembles upon GTP binding, forming tetramers in the activated state, and stimulates the GTPase activity in a cooperative manner. The products of the two consecutive hydrolysis reactions are both GDP and GMP. The biochemical characterization of point mutants in the GTP-binding motifs of mGBP2 revealed amino acid residues that decrease the GTPase activity by orders of magnitude and strongly impair nucleotide binding and multimerization ability. Live cell imaging employing multiparameter fluorescence image spectroscopy (MFIS) using a Homo-FRET assay shows that the inducible multimerization of mGBP2 is dependent on a functional GTPase domain. The consistent results indicate that GTP binding, self-assembly, and stimulated hydrolysis activity are required for physiological localization of the protein in infected and uninfected cells. Ultimately, we show that the GTPase domain regulates efficient recruitment to T. gondii in response to IFN-γ.

Determinants of GBP recruitment to Toxoplasma gondii vacuoles and the parasitic factors that control it

IFN-γ is a major cytokine that mediates resistance against the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii. The p65 guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) are strongly induced by IFN-γ. We studied the behavior of murine GBP1 (mGBP1) upon infection with T. gondii in vitro and confirmed that IFN-γ-dependent re-localization of mGBP1 to the parasitophorous vacuole (PV) correlates with the virulence type of the parasite. We identified three parasitic factors, ROP16, ROP18, and GRA15 that determine strain-specific accumulation of mGBP1 on the PV. These highly polymorphic proteins are held responsible for a large part of the strain-specific differences in virulence. Therefore, our data suggest that virulence of T. gondii in animals may rely in part on recognition by GBPs. However, phagosomes or vacuoles containing Trypanosoma cruzi did not recruit mGBP1. Co-immunoprecipitation revealed mGBP2, mGBP4, and mGBP5 as binding partners of mGBP1. Indeed, mGBP2 and mGBP5 co-localize with mGBP1 in T. gondii-infected cells. T. gondii thus elicits a cell-autonomous immune response in mice with GBPs involved. Three parasitic virulence factors and unknown IFN-γ-dependent host factors regulate this complex process. Depending on the virulence of the strains involved, numerous GBPs are brought to the PV as part of a large, multimeric structure to combat T. gondii.

Immunity-related GTPase M (IRGM) proteins influence the localization of guanylate-binding protein 2 (GBP2) by modulating macroautophagy

The immunity-related GTPases (IRGs) are a family of proteins induced by interferon-γ that play a crucial role in innate resistance to intracellular pathogens. The M subfamily of IRG proteins (IRGM) plays a profound role in this context, in part because of the ability of its members to regulate the localization and expression of other IRG proteins. We present here evidence that IRGM proteins affect the localization of the guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs), a second family of interferon-induced GTP-binding proteins that also function in innate immunity. Absence of Irgm1 or Irgm3 led to accumulation of Gbp2 in intracellular compartments that were positive for both the macroautophagy (hereafter referred to as autophagy) marker LC3 and the autophagic adapter molecule p62/Sqstm1. Gbp2 was similarly relocalized in cells in which autophagy was impaired because of the absence of Atg5. Both in Atg5- and IRGM-deficient cells, the IRG protein Irga6 relocalized to the same compartments as Gbp2, raising the possibility of a common regulatory mechanism. However, other data indicated that Irga6, but not Gbp2, was ubiquitinated in IRGM-deficient cells. Similarly, coimmunoprecipitation studies indicated that although Irgm3 did interact directly with Irgb6, it did not interact with Gbp2. Collectively, these data suggest that IRGM proteins indirectly modulate the localization of GBPs through a distinct mechanism from that through which they regulate IRG protein localization. Further, these results suggest that a core function of IRGM proteins is to regulate autophagic flux, which influences the localization of GBPs and possibly other factors that instruct cell-autonomous immune resistance.

The interferon-gamma-induced GTPase, mGBP-2, inhibits tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) induction of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) by inhibiting NF-kappaB and Rac protein

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is important in numerous normal and pathological processes, including the angiogenic switch during tumor development and tumor metastasis. Whereas TNF-α and other cytokines up-regulate MMP-9 expression, interferons (IFNs) inhibit MMP-9 expression. We found that IFN-γ treatment or forced expression of the IFN-induced GTPase, mGBP-2, inhibit TNF-α-induced MMP-9 expression in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts, by inhibiting MMP-9 transcription. The NF-κB transcription factor is required for full induction of MMP-9 by TNF-α. Both IFN-γ and mGBP-2 inhibit the transcription of a NF-κB-dependent reporter construct, suggesting that mGBP-2 inhibits MMP-9 induction via inhibition of NF-κB-mediated transcription. Interestingly, mGBP-2 does not inhibit TNF-α-induced degradation of IκBα or p65/RelA translocation into the nucleus. However, mGBP-2 inhibits p65 binding to a κB oligonucleotide probe in gel shift assays and to the MMP-9 promoter in chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. In addition, TNF-α activation of NF-κB in NIH 3T3 cells is dependent on Rac activation, as evidenced by the inhibition of TNF-α induction of NF-κB-mediated transcription by a dominant inhibitory form of Rac1. A role for Rac in the inhibitory action of mGBP-2 on NF-κB is further shown by the findings that mGBP-2 inhibits TNF-α activation of endogenous Rac and constitutively activate Rac can restore NF-κB transcription in the presence of mGBP-2. This is a novel mechanism by which IFNs can inhibit the cytokine induction of MMP-9 expression.

Intracellular trafficking of guanylate-binding proteins is regulated by heterodimerization in a hierarchical manner

Guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) belong to the dynamin family of large GTPases and represent the major IFN-γ-induced proteins. Here we systematically investigated the mechanisms regulating the subcellular localization of GBPs. Three GBPs (GBP-1, GBP-2 and GBP-5) carry a C-terminal CaaX-prenylation signal, which is typical for small GTPases of the Ras family, and increases the membrane affinity of proteins. In this study, we demonstrated that GBP-1, GBP-2 and GBP-5 are prenylated in vivo and that prenylation is required for the membrane association of GBP-1, GBP-2 and GBP-5. Using co-immunoprecipitation, yeast-two-hybrid analysis and fluorescence complementation assays, we showed for the first time that GBPs are able to homodimerize in vivo and that the membrane association of GBPs is regulated by dimerization similarly to dynamin. Interestingly, GBPs could also heterodimerize. This resulted in hierarchical positioning effects on the intracellular localization of the proteins. Specifically, GBP-1 recruited GBP-5 and GBP-2 into its own cellular compartment and GBP-5 repositioned GBP-2. In addition, GBP-1, GBP-2 and GBP-5 were able to redirect non-prenylated GBPs to their compartment in a prenylation-dependent manner. Overall, these findings prove in vivo the ability of GBPs to dimerize, indicate that heterodimerization regulates sub-cellular localization of GBPs and underscore putative membrane-associated functions of this family of proteins.

Role of GTP binding, isoprenylation, and the C-terminal α-helices in the inhibition of cell spreading by the interferon-induced GTPase, mouse guanylate-binding protein-2

Interferon-γ pre-exposure inhibits Rac activation by either integrin engagement or platelet-derived growth factor treatment. Interferon-γ does this by inducing expression of the large guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) mouse guanylate-binding protein (mGBP-2). Inhibiting Rac results in the retardation of cell spreading. Analysis of variants of mGBP-2 containing amino acid substitutions in the guanosine triphosphate (GTP) binding domain suggests that GTP binding, and possibly dimerization, of mGBP-2 is necessary to inhibit cell spreading. However, isoprenylation is also required. Removal of the N-terminal GTP-binding globular domain from mGBP-2 yields a protein with only the extended C-terminal α-helices that lacks enzymatic activity. The ability of the C-terminal α-helices alone to inhibit cell spreading suggests that this is the domain that interacts with the downstream effectors of mGBP-2. Interestingly, mGBP-2 can inhibit cell spreading whether it is geranylgeranylated or farnesylated. This study begins to define the properties of mGBP-2 responsible for inhibiting cell spreading.

The interferon-gamma-induced murine guanylate-binding protein-2 inhibits rac activation during cell spreading on fibronectin and after platelet-derived growth factor treatment: role for phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase

Exposure of cells to certain cytokines can alter how these same cells respond to later cues from other agents, such as extracellular matrix or growth factors. Interferon (IFN)-gamma pre-exposure inhibits the spreading of fibroblasts on fibronectin. Expression of the IFN-gamma-induced GTPase murine guanylate-binding protein-2 (mGBP-2) can phenocopy this inhibition and small interfering RNA knockdown of mGBP-2 prevents IFN-gamma-mediated inhibition of cell spreading. Either IFN-gamma treatment or mGBP-2 expression inhibits Rac activation during cell spreading. Rac is required for cell spreading. mGBP-2 also inhibits the activation of Akt during cell spreading on fibronectin. mGBP-2 is incorporated into a protein complex containing the catalytic subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K), p110. The association of mGBP-2 with p110 seems important for the inhibition of cell spreading because S52N mGBP-2, which does not incorporate into the protein complex with p110, is unable to inhibit cell spreading. PI3-K activation during cell spreading on fibronectin was inhibited in the presence of mGBP-2. Both IFN-gamma and mGBP-2 also inhibit cell spreading initiated by platelet-derived growth factor treatment, which is also accompanied by inhibition of Rac activation by mGBP-2. This is the first report of a novel mechanism by which IFN-gamma can alter how cells respond to subsequent extracellular signals, by the induction of mGBP-2.

Allergen challenge induces Ifng dependent GTPases in the lungs as part of a Th1 transcriptome response in a murine model of allergic asthma

According to the current paradigm, allergic airway inflammation is mediated by Th2 cytokines and pro-inflammatory chemokines. Since allergic inflammation is self-limited, we hypothesized that allergen challenge simultaneously induces anti-inflammatory genes to counter-balance the effects of Th2 cytokines and chemokines. To identify these putative anti-inflammatory genes, we compared the gene expression profile in the lungs of ragweed-sensitized mice four hours after challenge with either PBS or ragweed extract (RWE) using a micro-array platform. Consistent with our hypothesis, RWE challenge concurrently upregulated Th1-associated early target genes of the Il12/Stat4 pathway, such as p47 and p65 GTPases (Iigp, Tgtp and Gbp1), Socs1, Cxcl9, Cxcl10 and Gadd45g with the Th2 genes Il4, Il5, Ccl2 and Ccl7. These Th1-associated genes remain upregulated longer than the Th2 genes. Augmentation of the local Th1 milieu by administration of Il12 or CpG prior to RWE challenge further upregulated these Th1 genes. Abolition of the Th1 response by disrupting the Ifng gene increased allergic airway inflammation and abrogated RWE challenge-induced upregulation of GTPases, Cxcl9, Cxcl10 and Socs1, but not Gadd45g. Our data demonstrate that allergen challenge induces two sets of Th1-associated genes in the lungs: 1) Ifng-dependent genes such as p47 and p65 GTPases, Socs1, Cxcl9 and Cxcl10 and 2) Ifng-independent Th1-inducing genes like Gadd45g. We propose that allergen-induced airway inflammation is regulated by simultaneous upregulation of Th1 and Th2 genes, and that persistent unopposed upregulation of Th1 genes resolves allergic inflammation.

Analyses of murine GBP homology clusters based on in silico, in vitro and in vivo studies

The interactions between pathogens and hosts lead to a massive upregulation of antimicrobial host effector molecules. Among these, the 65 kDa guanylate binding proteins (GBPs) are interesting candidates as intricate components of the host effector molecule repertoire. Members of the GBP family are highly conserved in vertebrates. Previous reports indicate an antiviral activity of human GBP1 (hGBP1) and murine GBP2 (mGBP2). We recently demonstrated that distinct murine GBP (mGBP) family members are highly upregulated upon Toxoplasma gondii infection and localize around the intracellular protozoa T. gondii. Moreover, we characterised five new mGBP family members within the murine 65 kDa GBP family. Here, we identified a new mGBP locus named mGbp11. Based on bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC), expressed sequence tag (EST), and RT-PCR analyses this study provides a detailed insight into the genomic localization and organization of the mGBPs. These analyses revealed a 166-kb spanning region on chromosome 3 harboring five transcribed mGBPs (mGbp1, mGbp2, mGbp3, mGbp5, and mGbp7) and one pseudogene (pseudomGbp1), as well as a 332-kb spanning region on chromosome 5 consisting of six transcribed mGBPs (mGbp4, mGbp6, mGbp8, mGbp9, mGbp10, and mGbp11), and one pseudogene (pseudomgbp2). Besides the strikingly high homology of 65% to 98% within the coding sequences, the mGBPs on chromosome 5 cluster also exhibit a highly homologous exon-intron structure whereas the mGBP on chromosome 3 reveals a more divergent exon-intron structure. This study details the comprehensive genomic organization of mGBPs and suggests that a continuously changing microbial environment has exerted evolutionary pressure on this gene family leading to multiple gene amplifications. A list of links for this article can be found in the Availability and requirements section.

Extensive characterization of IFN-induced GTPases mGBP1 to mGBP10 involved in host defense

IFN-gamma orchestrates a potent antimicrobial host response. However, the underlying molecular basis for this immunological defense system is largely unknown. In a systematic approach to identify IFN-gamma-regulated host effector molecules, a notable number of transcripts with consensus GTP-binding motives were obtained. Further extensive transcriptome and genome analyses identified five novel family members of murine guanylate-binding proteins (mGBPs) now designated mGBP6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Moreover, in this study, all 10 mGBP members (mGBP1-10) were extensively characterized. mGBPs are selectively up-regulated in vitro by a set of proinflammatory cytokines and TLR agonists as well as in vivo after Listeria monocytogenes and Toxoplasma gondii infection. After IFN-gamma stimulation, mGBP1, 2, 3, 6, 7, and 9 are associated with intracellular Toxoplasma parasites and, interestingly, virulent Toxoplasma interfere with mGBP recruitment. Taken together, mGBPs comprise an important set of host defense molecules.

Emerging themes in IFN-gamma-induced macrophage immunity by the p47 and p65 GTPase families

Vertebrates have evolved complex immune specificity repertoires beyond the primordial components found in lower multi-cellular organisms to combat microbial infections. The type II interferon (IFN-gamma) pathway represents one such system, bridging innate and acquired immunity and providing host protection in a cell-autonomous manner. Recent large-scale transcriptome analyses of IFN-gamma-dependent gene expression in effector cells such as macrophages have highlighted the prominence of two families of GTPases -- p47 IRGs and p65 GBPs -- that are now beginning to emerge as major determinants of antimicrobial resistance. Here we discuss the recent clarification of known family members, their cellular biochemistry and host defense functions as a means to understanding the complex innate immune response engendered in higher vertebrates such as humans and mice.

IRG proteins: key mediators of interferon-regulated host resistance to intracellular pathogens

Immunity-related GTPases (IRG) (also known as p47 GTPases) are a family of proteins found in vertebrates, which play critical roles in mediating innate resistance to intracellular pathogens. The proteins are expressed at high levels following infection with bacteria, protozoa or viruses, as a consequence of interferon-stimulated transcription. Their absence in gene-targeted mice leads to profoundly decreased resistance to many bacteria and protozoa that varies markedly with the particular IRG protein that has been targeted. The proteins are thought to function by localizing to pathogen-containing vacuoles in host cells, such as macrophages, and then regulating the processing of the vacuole and ultimately driving elimination of the pathogen. This review details current knowledge of IRG proteins and their key roles in host resistance.

In silico genomic analysis of the human and murine guanylate-binding protein (GBP) gene clusters

The guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) were among the first interferon (IFN)-stimulated genes (ISGs) discovered, but until recently, little was known about their functions and even less about the composition of the gene family. Analysis of the promoter of human GBP-1 contributed significantly toward the understanding of Jak-Stat signaling and the delineation of the IFN-gamma activation site (GAS) and IFN-stimulated response element (ISRE) promoter elements. In this study, we have examined the genomic arrangement and composition of the GBPs in both mouse and humans. There are seven GBP paralogs in humans and at least one pseudogene, all of which are located in a cluster of genes on chromosome 1. Five of the six MuGBPs and a GBP pseudogene are clustered in a syntenic region on chromosome 3. The sixth MuGBP, MuGBP-4, and three GBP pseudogenes are located on chromosome 5. As might be expected, the GBPs share similar genomic organizations of introns and exons. Five of the MuGBPs had previously been shown to be coordinately induced by IFNs, and as expected, all of the MuGBPs have GAS and ISRE elements in their promoters. Interestingly, not all of the HuGBPs have GAS and ISRE elements, suggesting that not all GBPs are IFN responsive in humans.

Unique features of different members of the human guanylate-binding protein family

Guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) are the most abundant cellular proteins expressed in response to interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), with seven highly homologous members in humans, termed HuGBP-1 to HuGBP-7. To date, differential features that may indicate differential functions of these proteins have not been described. Here, we investigated the expression and subcellular localization of the different HuGBPs in endothelial cells (EC). IFN-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) induced the expression of HuGBP-1, HuGBP-2, and HuGBP-3 at similar high levels. In contrast, expression of HuGBP-4 and HuGBP-5 was robustly induced only by IFN-gamma and not by TNF-alpha and IL-1beta. Expression of HuGBP-6 and HuGBP-7 was not detected in EC under the various conditions examined. Investigating subcellular localization of the EC-expressed HuGBPs, HuGBP-1, HuGBP-3, and HuGBP-5 were exclusively detected in the cytoplasm, whereas HuGBP-2 and HuGBP-4 displayed a nucleocytoplasmic distribution. Treatment of the cells with IFN-gamma and aluminum fluoride caused rapid enrichment of HuGBP-1 and HuGBP-2 in the Golgi apparatus, as demonstrated by time-lapse microscopy and fluorescence analyses of GFP-tagged HuGBPs. HuGBP-3 and HuGBP-4 were never detected in the Golgi apparatus, whereas HuGBP-5 was constitutively enriched in this cytosolic compartment, irrespective of stimulation. These results assign a characteristic pattern of expression and subcellular localization to each of the HuGBPs, indicating for the first time that these proteins may have different cellular functions.

The Interferon-Inducible GTPases

Mammalian cells respond to interferons (IFNs) secreted during infection by the transcriptional upregulation of as many as a thousand genes. This remarkable transition prepares cells and organisms for resistance to infection, and many IFN-regulated gene products are players in well-understood resistance programs. Oddly, however, many of the most abundantly induced proteins are GTPases whose functions are not well understood. Here we review the progress that has been made toward understanding the roles of individual GTPase families in disease resistance and the hints of common mechanisms that are now available.

Human guanylate binding protein-1 is a secreted GTPase present in increased concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with bacterial meningitis

Interferon-gamma-induced GTPases are key to the protective immunity against microbial and viral pathogens. As yet, the cell interior has been regarded as the exclusive residence of these proteins. Here we show that a member of this group, human guanylate binding protein-1 (hGBP-1), is secreted from cells. Secretion occurred in the absence of a leader peptide via a nonclassical, likely ABC transporter-dependent, pathway, was independent of hGBP-1 GTPase activity and isoprenylation, and did not require additional interferon-gamma-induced factors. Interestingly, hGBP-1 was only secreted from endothelial cells but not from any of the nine different cell types tested. Clinically most important was the detection of significantly (P<0.001, Mann-Whitney U-test) increased hGBP-1 concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with bacterial meningitis (n=32) as compared to control patients (n=74). In this first report of a secreted GTPase, we demonstrate that secreted hGBP-1 may be a useful surrogate marker for diagnosis of bacterial meningitis.

Review:The Guanylate-Binding Proteins (GBPs): Proinflammatory Cytokine-Induced Members of the Dynamin Superfamily with Unique GTPase Activity

The guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) were first identified in the late 1970s, and within a short period of time, investigators were aware that GBPs possessed unique properties, in particular the ability to bind GMP agarose. Since then, much study has gone into understanding their mechanism of induction by interferons (IFNs) and other cytokines, and they have been used extensively as markers for IFN responsiveness in both cells and organisms. In time, we learned that GBPs had the unusual ability to hydrolyze GTP to both GDP and GMP. More recently, we have begun to appreciate their novel structure, one that suggests unique mechanisms of GTP binding and hydrolysis and unique forms of regulation. In addition, we have begun to unravel some of their functions and to separate these function into those functions that do and those that do not require GTPase activity.

Golgi targeting of human guanylate-binding protein-1 requires nucleotide binding, isoprenylation, and an IFN-gamma-inducible cofactor

Human guanylate-binding protein-1 (hGBP-1) is a large GTPase, similar in structure to the dynamins. Like many smaller GTPases of the Ras/Rab family, it is farnesylated, suggesting it may dock into membranes and perhaps play a role in intracellular trafficking. To date, however, hGBP-1 has never been associated with a specific intracellular compartment. Here we present evidence that hGBP-1 can associate with the Golgi apparatus. Redistribution from the cytosol to the Golgi was observed by immunofluorescence and subcellular fractionation after aluminum fluoride treatment, suggesting that it occurs when hGBP-1 is in its GTP-bound state. Relocalization was blocked by a farnesyl transferase inhibitor. The C589S mutant of hGBP-1, which cannot be farnesylated, and the previously uncharacterized R48P mutant, which cannot bind GTP, both failed to localize to the Golgi. These two mutants had a dominant-negative effect, preventing endogenous wild-type hGBP-1 from efficiently redistributing after aluminum fluoride treatment. Furthermore, hGBP-1 requires another IFN-gamma-induced factor to be targeted to the Golgi, because constitutively expressed hGBP-1 remained cytosolic in cells treated with aluminum fluoride unless the cells were preincubated with IFN-gamma. Finally, two nonhydrolyzing mutants of hGBP-1, corresponding to active mutants of Ras family proteins, failed to constitutively associate with the Golgi; we propose three possible explanations for this surprising result.

Human guanylate binding protein-1 (hGBP-1) characterizes and establishes a non-angiogenic endothelial cell activation phenotype in inflammatory diseases

Blood vessel activation in inflammatory diseases is triggered by a myriad of different factors that partially reveal opposite activities on endothelial cells (EC). For example, inflammatory cytokines (IC) inhibit EC proliferation and induce cell adhesiveness for leukocytes. In contrast, angiogenic growth factors (AGF) activate EC proliferation and inhibit cell adhesiveness for leukocytes. In consequence, IC and AGF may induce two different activation phenotypes in EC that appear in a temporally and/or spatially coordinated manner in inflammatory tissues. Human guanylate binding protein-1 (hGBP-1) is a member of the large GTPase protein family. New results demonstrate that hGBP-1 is a specific marker of IC-activated EC that allows to differentiate the IC- and AGF-activated phenotype of EC at the single cell level, both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, hGBP-1 is the key mediator of the inhibitory effects of IC on EC proliferation and invasiveness. Both the expression pattern of hGBP-1 and its activity in EC supported the hypothesis that IC- and AGF-activation induce distinct adversely related phenotypes in EC. In future, hGBP-1 may be used as a marker to monitor the IC-induced phenotype of EC in inflammation and may also be exploited as a target to modulate EC activity in inflammatory diseases and tumor angiogenesis.

Phospholipid scramblase 1 potentiates the antiviral activity of interferon

Phospholipid scramblase 1 (PLSCR1) is an interferon (IFN)- and growth factor-inducible, calcium-binding protein that either inserts into the plasma membrane or binds DNA in the nucleus depending on its state of palmyitoylation. In certain hematopoietic cells, PLSCR1 is required for normal maturation and terminal differentiation from progenitor cells as regulated by select growth factors, where it promotes recruitment and activation of Src kinases. PLSCR1 is a substrate of Src (and Abl) kinases, and transcription of the PLSCR1 gene is regulated by the same growth factor receptor pathways in which PLSCR1 potentiates afferent signaling. The marked transcriptional upregulation of PLSCR1 by IFNs led us to explore whether PLSCR1 plays an analogous role in cellular responses to IFN, with specific focus on antiviral activities. Accordingly, human cells in which PLSCR1 expression was decreased with short interfering RNA were rendered relatively insensitive to the antiviral activity of IFNs, resulting in higher titers of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and encephalomyocarditis virus. Similarly, VSV replicated to higher titers in mouse PLSCR1(-/-) embryonic fibroblasts than in identical cells transduced to express PLSCR1. PLSCR1 inhibited accumulation of primary VSV transcripts, similar to the effects of IFN against VSV. The antiviral effect of PLSCR1 correlated with increased expression of a subset of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs), including ISG15, ISG54, p56, and guanylate binding proteins. Our results suggest that PLSCR1, which is itself an ISG-encoded protein, provides a mechanism for amplifying and enhancing the IFN response through increased expression of a select subset of potent antiviral genes.

Inhibitor of kappaB kinase is required to activate a subset of interferon gamma-stimulated genes

IkappaB kinase (IKK), discovered as the major activator of NF-kappaB, plays additional roles in signaling. By using mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs) lacking both the alpha and beta subunits of IKK, we find that these proteins are required for induction of a major subset of IFNgamma-stimulated genes and that this requirement is independent of NF-kappaB activation. Furthermore, there is no defect in IFNgamma-stimulated signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (Stat1) activation or function in the IKKalpha/beta-null MEFs. Therefore, although activated Stat1 dimers are necessary for the activation of these genes in response to IFNgamma, they are not sufficient. These results reveal an important additional pathway for IFNgamma-stimulated gene expression in which an NF-kappaB-independent function of IKK is required.

Interferon-gamma: an overview of signals, mechanisms and functions

Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) coordinates a diverse array of cellular programs through transcriptional regulation of immunologically relevant genes. This article reviews the current understanding of IFN-gamma ligand, receptor, signal transduction, and cellular effects with a focus on macrophage responses and to a lesser extent, responses from other cell types that influence macrophage function during infection. The current model for IFN-gamma signal transduction is discussed, as well as signal regulation and factors conferring signal specificity. Cellular effects of IFN-gamma are described, including up-regulation of pathogen recognition, antigen processing and presentation, the antiviral state, inhibition of cellular proliferation and effects on apoptosis, activation of microbicidal effector functions, immunomodulation, and leukocyte trafficking. In addition, integration of signaling and response with other cytokines and pathogen-associated molecular patterns, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-4, type I IFNs, and lipopolysaccharide are discussed.

A giant GTPase, very large inducible GTPase-1, is inducible by IFNs

The complex, partially overlapping, cellular responses to IFN type I (IFN-alpha and -beta) and IFN type II (IFN-gamma) involve several hundred genes that can be largely classified in terms of specific cellular programs functional in innate and adaptive immunity. Among these programs are previously unconsidered mechanisms of cell-autonomous resistance against various pathogens mediated by dedicated, largely novel families of GTPases. We report here the identification and characterization of a new GTPase family that contributes to the cellular response to both type I and type II IFNs. We name this family the very large inducible GTPases (VLIGs). The prototype VLIG, VLIG-1, is a strongly IFN-inducible, soluble, cytosolic and nuclear protein of 280 kDa. The open reading frame of VLIG-1 is encoded on a single very large exon, and outside the canonical GTP-binding motifs, sequence and structural prediction suggest a unique family without significant relationship to other known protein families. Within the GTPase superfamily the VLIG family is more closely related to IFN-inducible GTPases mediating cell-autonomous resistance than to other GTPase families. In addition, we provide evidence that VLIG-1 is polymorphic in mice of different genetic backgrounds and is a member of a small gene family on mouse chromosome 7 with a conserved homologue located on human chromosome 11.

Cytokine-related genes identified from the RIKEN full-length mouse cDNA data set

To identify novel cytokine-related genes, we searched the set of 60,770 annotated RIKEN mouse cDNA clones (FANTOM2 clones), using keywords such as cytokine itself or cytokine names (such as interferon, interleukin, epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, and transforming growth factor). This search produced 108 known cytokines and cytokine-related products such as cytokine receptors, cytokine-associated genes, or their products (enhancers, accessory proteins, cytokine-induced genes). We found 15 clusters of FANTOM2 clones that are candidates for novel cytokine-related genes. These encoded products with strong sequence similarity to guanylate-binding protein (GBP-5), interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 2 (IRAK-2), interleukin 20 receptor alpha isoform 3, a member of the interferon-inducible proteins of the Ifi 200 cluster, four members of the membrane-associated family 1-8 of interferon-inducible proteins, one p27-like protein, and a hypothetical protein containing a Toll/Interleukin receptor domain. All four clones representing novel candidates of gene products from the family contain a novel highly conserved cross-species domain. Clones similar to growth factor-related products included transforming growth factor beta-inducible early growth response protein 2 (TIEG-2), TGFbeta-induced factor 2, integrin beta-like 1, latent TGF-binding protein 4S, and FGF receptor 4B. We performed a detailed sequence analysis of the candidate novel genes to elucidate their likely functional properties.

The interferon (IFN)-induced GTPase, mGBP-2. Role in IFN-gamma-induced murine fibroblast proliferation

To investigate the function of mGBP-2, a member of the interferon (IFN)-induced guanylate-binding protein family of GTPases, NIH 3T3 fibroblasts were generated that constitutively expressed mGBP-2. mGBP-2 induced a faster growth rate, with the highest expressing clones showing approximately a 50% reduction in doubling time. mGBP-2-expressing cells also grew to higher density and exhibited partial loss of contact growth inhibition, as evidenced by the formation of foci in post-confluent cultures. In addition, mGBP-2-expressing cells showed decreased dependence on serum-derived growth factors. However, they did not lose the requirement for anchorage-dependent growth. Finally, NIH 3T3 cells expressing mGBP-2 formed tumors in athymic mice. An mGBP-2 protein carrying a point mutation (S52N) that reduced GTP binding failed to produce these phenotypes when expressed at the same levels as wild type. The additional finding that IFN-gamma treatment of NIH 3T3 cells resulted in an increase in proliferation similar to that observed for mGBP-2 in the absence of other IFN-induced proteins suggests that mGBP-2 may indeed be important for these growth changes.

Viruses and interferons

The interferon system is the first line of defense against viral infection in mammals. This system is designed to block the spread of virus infection in the body, sometimes at the expense of accelerating the death of the infected cells. As expected of potent cytokines, in addition to their antiviral effects, interferons have profound effects on many aspects of cell physiology. All these actions of interferons are mediated by hundreds of interferon-induced proteins that are usually not synthesized in resting cells. Interferons induce their synthesis by activating the Jak-STAT pathways, a paradigm of cell signaling used by many cytokines and growth factors. Surprisingly, some of the same genes can also be induced directly by viruses and double-stranded RNA, a common viral by-product. Some of the interferon-induced proteins have novel biochemical properties and some are inactive as such but can be activated by double-stranded RNA produced during virus infection. Finally, almost all viruses have evolved mechanisms to evade the interferon system by partially blocking interferon synthesis or interferon action. Thus, in nature interferons and viruses maintain an equilibrium that allows regulated viral replication.