A C-terminal di-leucine is required for localization of the Menkes protein in the trans-Golgi network

P-type ATPases: Many more enigmas left to solve

P-type ATPases constitute a large ancient super-family of primary active pumps that have diverse substrate specificities ranging from H+ to phospholipids. The significance of these enzymes in biology cannot be overstated. They are structurally related, and their catalytic cycles alternate between high- and low-affinity conformations that are induced by phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of a conserved aspartate residue. In the year 1988, all P-type sequences available by then were analyzed and five major families, P1 to P5, were identified. Since then, a large body of knowledge has accumulated concerning the structure, function, and physiological roles of members of these families, but only one additional family, P6 ATPases, has been identified. However, much is still left to be learned. For each family a few remaining enigmas are presented, with the intention that they will stimulate interest in continued research in the field. The review is by no way comprehensive and merely presents personal views with a focus on evolution.

APOE expression and secretion are modulated by mitochondrial dysfunction

Mitochondria influence cellular function through both cell-autonomous and non-cell autonomous mechanisms, such as production of paracrine and endocrine factors. Here, we demonstrate that mitochondrial regulation of the secretome is more extensive than previously appreciated, as both genetic and pharmacological disruption of the electron transport chain caused upregulation of the Alzheimer's disease risk factor apolipoprotein E (APOE) and other secretome components. Indirect disruption of the electron transport chain by gene editing of SLC25A mitochondrial membrane transporters as well as direct genetic and pharmacological disruption of either complexes I, III, or the copper-containing complex IV of the electron transport chain elicited upregulation of APOE transcript, protein, and secretion, up to 49-fold. These APOE phenotypes were robustly expressed in diverse cell types and iPSC-derived human astrocytes as part of an inflammatory gene expression program. Moreover, age- and genotype-dependent decline in brain levels of respiratory complex I preceded an increase in APOE in the 5xFAD mouse model. We propose that mitochondria act as novel upstream regulators of APOE-dependent cellular processes in health and disease.

Systematic Assessment of Protein C-Termini Mutated in Human Disorders

All proteins have a carboxyl terminus, and we previously summarized eight mutations in binding and trafficking sequence determinants in the C-terminus that, when disrupted, cause human diseases. These sequence elements for binding and trafficking sites, as well as post-translational modifications (PTMs), are called minimotifs or short linear motifs. We wanted to determine how frequently mutations in minimotifs in the C-terminus cause disease. We searched specifically for PTMs because mutation of a modified amino acid almost always changes the chemistry of the side chain and can be interpreted as loss-of-function. We analyzed data from ClinVar for disease variants, Minimotif Miner and the C-terminome for PTMs, and RefSeq for protein sequences, yielding 20 such potential disease-causing variants. After additional screening, they include six with a previously reported PTM disruption mechanism and nine with new hypotheses for mutated minimotifs in C-termini that may cause disease. These mutations were generally for different genes, with four different PTM types and several different diseases. Our study helps to identify new molecular mechanisms for nine separate variants that cause disease, and this type of analysis could be extended as databases grow and to binding and trafficking motifs. We conclude that mutated motifs in C-termini are an infrequent cause of disease.

Clinical and Molecular Delineation of Cutis Laxa Syndromes: Paradigms for Homeostasis

Cutis laxa (CL) syndromes are a large and heterogeneous group of rare connective tissue disorders that share loose redundant skin as a hallmark clinical feature, which reflects dermal elastic fiber fragmentation. Both acquired and congenital-Mendelian- forms exist. Acquired forms are progressive and often preceded by inflammatory triggers in the skin, but may show systemic elastolysis. Mendelian forms are often pleiotropic in nature and classified upon systemic manifestations and mode of inheritance. Though impaired elastogenesis is a common denominator in all Mendelian forms of CL, the underlying gene defects are diverse and affect structural components of the elastic fiber or impair metabolic pathways interfering with cellular trafficking, proline synthesis, or mitochondrial functioning. In this chapter we provide a detailed overview of the clinical and molecular characteristics of the different cutis laxa types and review the latest insights on elastic fiber assembly and homeostasis from both human and animal studies.

The molecular and cellular basis of copper dysregulation and its relationship with human pathologies

Copper (Cu) is an essential micronutrient required for the activity of redox-active enzymes involved in critical metabolic reactions, signaling pathways, and biological functions. Transporters and chaperones control Cu ion levels and bioavailability to ensure proper subcellular and systemic Cu distribution. Intensive research has focused on understanding how mammalian cells maintain Cu homeostasis, and how molecular signals coordinate Cu acquisition and storage within organs. In humans, mutations of genes that regulate Cu homeostasis or facilitate interactions with Cu ions lead to numerous pathologic conditions. Malfunctions of the Cu⁺ -transporting ATPases ATP7A and ATP7B cause Menkes disease and Wilson disease, respectively. Additionally, defects in the mitochondrial and cellular distributions and homeostasis of Cu lead to severe neurodegenerative conditions, mitochondrial myopathies, and metabolic diseases. Cu has a dual nature in carcinogenesis as a promotor of tumor growth and an inducer of redox stress in cancer cells. Cu also plays role in cancer treatment as a component of drugs and a regulator of drug sensitivity and uptake. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge of Cu metabolism and transport and its relation to various human pathologies.

The transferred translocases: An old wine in a new bottle

The role of translocases was underappreciated and was not included as a separate class in the enzyme commission until August 2018. The recent research interests in proteomics of orphan enzymes, ionomics, and metallomics along with high-throughput sequencing technologies generated overwhelming data and revamped this enzyme into a separate class. This offers a great opportunity to understand the role of new or orphan enzymes in general and specifically translocases. The enzymes belonging to translocases regulate/permeate the transfer of ions or molecules across the membranes. These enzyme entries were previously associated with other enzyme classes, which are now transferred to a new enzyme class 7 (EC 7). The entries that are reclassified are important to extend the enzyme list, and it is the need of the hour. Accordingly, there is an upgradation of entries of this class of enzymes in several databases. This review is a concise compilation of translocases with reference to the number of entries currently available in the databases. This review also focuses on function as well as dysfunction of translocases during normal and disordered states, respectively.

Retromer retrieves the Wilson disease protein ATP7B from endolysosomes in a copper-dependent manner

The Wilson disease protein, ATP7B maintains copper (herein referring to the Cu+ ion) homeostasis in the liver. ATP7B traffics from trans-Golgi network to endolysosomes to export excess copper. Regulation of ATP7B trafficking to and from endolysosomes is not well understood. We investigated the fate of ATP7B after copper export. At high copper levels, ATP7B traffics primarily to acidic, active hydrolase (cathepsin-B)-positive endolysosomes and, upon subsequent copper chelation, returns to the trans-Golgi network (TGN). At high copper, ATP7B colocalizes with endolysosomal markers and with a core member of retromer complex, VPS35. Knocking down VPS35 did not abrogate the copper export function of ATP7B or its copper-responsive anterograde trafficking to vesicles; rather upon subsequent copper chelation, ATP7B failed to relocalize to the TGN, which was rescued by overexpressing wild-type VPS35. Overexpressing mutants of the retromer complex-associated proteins Rab7A and COMMD1 yielded a similar non-recycling phenotype of ATP7B. At high copper, VPS35 and ATP7B are juxtaposed on the same endolysosome and form a large complex that is stabilized by in vivo photoamino acid labeling and UV-crosslinking. We demonstrate that retromer regulates endolysosome to TGN trafficking of copper transporter ATP7B in a manner that is dependent upon intracellular copper.

Membrane transport proteins in melanosomes: Regulation of ions for pigmentation

Melanosomes are unique organelles in melanocytes that produce melanin, the pigment for skin, hair, and eye color. Tyrosinase is the essential and rate-limiting enzyme for melanin production, that strictly requires neutral pH for activity. pH maintenance is a result of the combinational function of multiple ion transport proteins. Thus, ion homeostasis in melanosomes is crucial for melanin synthesis. Defect of the ion transport system causes various pigmentation phenotypes, from mild effect to severe disorders such as albinism. In this review, we summarize the up-to-date knowledge of the ion transport system, such as transport function, structure, and the physiological roles and mechanisms of the ion transport proteins in melanosomes. In addition, we propose a model of melanosomal ion transport system-how the functional coupling of multiple transport proteins modulates and maintains ion homeostasis. We discuss melanin synthesis in terms of the ion transport system.

Neuron-glia: understanding cellular copper homeostasis, its cross-talk and their contribution towards neurodegenerative diseases

Over the years, the mechanism of copper homeostasis in various organ systems has gained importance. This is owing to the involvement of copper in a wide range of genetic disorders, most of them involving neurological symptoms. This highlights the importance of copper and its tight regulation in a complex organ system like the brain. It demands understanding the mechanism of copper acquisition and delivery to various cell types overcoming the limitation imposed by the blood brain barrier. The present review aims to investigate the existing work to understand the mechanism and complexity of cellular copper homeostasis in the two major cell types of the CNS - the neurons and the astrocytes. It investigates the mechanism of copper uptake, incorporation and export by these cell types. Furthermore, it brings forth the common as well as the exclusive aspects of neuronal and glial copper homeostasis including the studies from copper-based sensors. Glia act as a mediator of copper supply between the endothelium and the neurons. They possess all the qualifications of acting as a 'copper-sponge' for supply to the neurons. The neurons, on the other hand, require copper for various essential functions like incorporation as a cofactor for enzymes, synaptogenesis, axonal extension, inhibition of postsynaptic excitotoxicity, etc. Lastly, we also aim to understand the neuronal and glial pathology in various copper homeostasis disorders. The etiology of glial pathology and its contribution towards neuronal pathology and vice versa underlies the complexity of the neuropathology associated with the copper metabolism disorders.

A GFP-tagged version of the pseudorabies virus protein UL56 localizes to the Golgi and trans-Golgi network through a predicted C-terminal leucine-rich helix in transfected cells

BACKGROUND

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) protein UL56 (pUL56) has been implicated in viral dissemination and virulence in vivo. However, the properties of PRV pUL56 remain largely unknown. In the present study, we aim to investigate the subcellular localization of pUL56 and the underlying molecular basis in transfected cells.

METHODS

Constructs of N-terminal green fluorescent protein (GFP) fused pUL56 and its truncations were employed for investigating subcellular localization and further identifying amino acids crucial for pUL56 localization in transfected Vero cells. Finally, the identified amino acids were replaced with alanine for confirming if these mutations could impair the specific localization of pUL56.

RESULTS

The pUL56 predominantly localized at the Golgi and trans-Golgi network (TGN) through its predicted C-terminal transmembrane helix in transfected Vero cells. A Golgi-associated protein Rab6a, independent of interaction with pUL56, was significantly downregulated by pUL56. Further, we found three truncated pUL56 C-terminal fragments (174-184, 175-185 and 191-195) could restrict GFP in the perinuclear region, respectively. Within these truncations, the ¹⁷⁴proline (P), ¹⁸¹leucine (L), ¹⁸⁵L and ¹⁹¹L were essential for maintaining perinuclear accumulation, thus suggesting an important role of leucine. Alanine (A) mutagenesis assays were employed to generate a series of pUL56 C-terminal mutants on the basis of leucine. Finally, a pUL56 mutant M10 (¹⁷⁴P/A-¹⁷⁷L/A-¹⁸¹L/A-¹⁸⁵L/A-¹⁹¹L/A-¹⁹⁴L/A-¹⁹⁵I/A-^196-197L/A-²⁰⁰L/A) lost Golgi-TGN localization. Thus, our data revealed that the leucine-rich transmembrane helix was responsible for pUL56 Golgi-TGN localization and retention, probably through specific intracellular membrane insertion.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicated that the C-terminal transmembrane helix was responsible for the Golgi-TGN localization of pUL56. In addition, the leucines within C-terminal transmembrane helix were essential for maintaining pUL56 Golgi-TGN retention in cells. Further, the pUL56 can induce downregulation of Golgi-associated protein Rab6a.

The carboxy-terminus, a key regulator of protein function

All proteins end with a carboxyl terminus that has unique biophysical properties and is often disordered. Although there are examples of important C-termini functions, a more global role for the C-terminus is not yet established. In this review, we summarize research on C-termini, a unique region in proteins that cells exploit. Alternative splicing and proteolysis increase the diversity of proteins and peptides in cells with unique C-termini. The C-termini of proteins contain minimotifs, short peptides with an encoded function generally characterized as binding, posttranslational modifications, and trafficking. Many of these activities are specific to minimotifs on the C-terminus. Approximately 13% of C-termini in the human proteome have a known minimotif, and the majority, if not all of the remaining termini have conserved motifs inferring a function that remains to be discovered. C-termini, their predictions, and their functions are collated in the C-terminome, Proteus, and Terminus Oriented Protein Function INferred Database (TopFIND) database/web systems. Many C-termini are well conserved, and some have a known role in health and disease. We envision that this summary of C-termini will guide future investigation of their biochemical and physiological significance.

di-Cysteine motifs in the C-terminus of plant HMA4 proteins confer nanomolar affinity for zinc and are essential for HMA4 function in vivo

The PIB ATPase heavy metal ATPase 4 (HMA4) has a central role in the zinc homeostasis network of Arabidopsis thaliana. This membrane protein loads metal from the pericycle cells into the xylem in roots, thereby allowing root to shoot metal translocation. Moreover, HMA4 is key for zinc hyperaccumulation as well as zinc and cadmium hypertolerance in the pseudometallophyte Arabidopsis halleri. The plant-specific cytosolic C-terminal extension of HMA4 is rich in putative metal-binding residues and has substantially diverged between A. thaliana and A. halleri. To clarify the function of the domain in both species, protein variants with truncated C-terminal extension, as well as with mutated di-Cys motifs and/or a His-stretch, were functionally characterized. We show that di-Cys motifs, but not the His-stretch, contribute to high affinity zinc binding and function in planta. We suggest that the HMA4 C-terminal extension is at least partly responsible for protein targeting to the plasma membrane. Finally, we reveal that the C-terminal extensions of both A. thaliana and A. halleri HMA4 proteins share similar function, despite marginally different zinc-binding capacity.

13 novel putative mutations in ATP7A found in a cohort of 25 Italian families

ATP7A is a copper-transporting P-type adenosine triphosphatase whose loss of function leads to the Menkes disease, an X-linked copper metabolism multi-organ disorder (1 in 100.000 births). Here we document our experience with the ATP7A linked diseases in Italy. We analyzed the exonic structure of the ATP7A gene in 25 unrelated Italian families and studied the variants of unknown significance. We identified 22 different DNA alterations, 13 of which first reported in this study. The classical Menkes phenotype was present in 21 of the 25 families and was linked with highly damaging mutations (7 nonsense; 4 frame-shift; 2 small in-frame deletions, 2 splice site alterations, 2 gross deletions, and 1 gross duplication). Of the 4 cases with milder variants of the Menkes disease two had a missense mutation, one a leaky splice site alteration and one a nonsense mutation in exon 22. We determined in silico that all the mutations leading to the classical Menkes disease leave no residual activity of ATP7A including the apparently less severe in-frame deletions. Whereas milder forms of the disease are characterized by mutations that allow a limited residual activity of ATP7A, including the nonsense mutation observed.

Copper comes of age in Melbourne

When we were asked to produce articles for this volume, it seemed appropriate to us to co-author an article on the history and impact of copper research in Melbourne. It is appropriate because over many years, decades in fact, we worked closely together and with Professor David Danks to identify the molecular defect in Menkes disease. This work was always carried out with the intention of understanding the nature of the copper homeostatic mechanisms and a "copper pathway" in the cell, that David had the prescience to predict must exist despite scepticism from granting agencies! He indeed inspired us to pursue research careers in this field. This article outlines some of this history.

Metallo-pathways to Alzheimer's disease: lessons from genetic disorders of copper trafficking

Copper is an essential metal ion that provides catalytic function to numerous enzymes and also regulates neurotransmission and intracellular signaling. Conversely, a deficiency or excess of copper can cause chronic disease in humans. Menkes and Wilson disease are two rare heritable disorders of copper transport that are characterized by copper deficiency and copper overload, respectively. Changes to copper status are also a common feature of several neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In the case of AD, which is characterized by brain copper depletion, changes in the distribution of copper has been linked with various aspects of the disease process; protein aggregation, defective protein degradation, oxidative stress, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. Although AD is a multifactorial disease that is likely caused by a breakdown in multiple cellular pathways, copper and other metal ions such as iron and zinc play a central role in many of these cellular processes. Pioneering work by researchers who have studied relatively rare copper transport diseases has shed light on potential metal ion related disease mechanisms in other forms of neurodegeneration such as AD.

Multiple di-leucines in the ATP7A copper transporter are required for retrograde trafficking to the trans-Golgi network

The ATP7A protein is a ubiquitous copper-transporting P-type ATPase that is mutated in the lethal pediatric disorder of copper metabolism, Menkes disease. The steady-state location of ATP7A is within the trans-Golgi network (TGN), where it delivers copper to copper-dependent enzymes within the secretory pathway. However, ATP7A constantly cycles between the TGN and the plasma membrane, and in the presence of high copper concentrations, the exocytic arm of this cycling pathway is enhanced to promote a steady-state distribution of ATP7A to post-Golgi vesicles and the plasma membrane. A single di-leucine endocytic motif within the cytosolic carboxy tail of ATP7A (1487LL) was previously shown to be essential for TGN localization by functioning in retrieval from the plasma membrane, however, the requirement of other di-leucine signals in this region has not been fully investigated. While there has been some success in identifying sequence elements within ATP7A required for trafficking and catalysis, progress has been hampered by the instability of the ATP7A cDNA in high-copy plasmids during replication in Escherichia coli. In this study, we find that the use of DNA synthesis to generate silent mutations across the majority of both mouse and human ATP7A open reading frames was sufficient to stabilize these genes in high-copy plasmids, thus permitting the generation of full-length expression constructs. Using the stabilized mouse Atp7a construct, we identify a second di-leucine motif in the carboxy tail of ATP7A (1459LL) as essential for steady-state localization in the TGN by functioning in endosome-to-TGN trafficking. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that multiple di-leucine signals are required for recycling ATP7A from the plasma membrane to the TGN and illustrate the utility of large-scale codon reassignment as a simple and effective approach to circumvent cDNA instability in high-copy plasmids.

Development of new peptide-based receptor of fluorescent probe with femtomolar affinity for Cu(+) and detection of Cu(+) in Golgi apparatus

Developing fluorescent probes for monitoring intracellular Cu(+) is important for human health and disease, whereas a few types of their receptors showing a limited range of binding affinities for Cu(+) have been reported. In the present study, we first report a novel peptide receptor of a fluorescent probe for the detection of Cu(+). Dansyl-labeled tripeptide probe (Dns-LLC) formed a 1:1 complex with Cu(+) and showed a turn-on fluorescent response to Cu(+) in aqueous buffered solutions. The dissociation constant of Dns-LLC for Cu(+) was determined to be 12 fM, showing that Dns-LLC had more potent binding affinity for Cu(+) than those of previously reported chemical probes for Cu(+). The binding mode study showed that the thiol group of the peptide receptor plays a critical role in potent binding with Cu(+) and the sulfonamide and amide groups of the probe might cooperate to form a complex with Cu(+). Dns-LLC detected Cu(+) selectively by a turn-on response among various biologically relevant metal ions, including Cu(2+) and Zn(2+). The selectivity of the peptide-based probe for Cu(+) was strongly dependent on the position of the cysteine residue in the peptide receptor part. The fluorescent peptide-based probe penetrated the living RKO cells and successfully detected Cu(+) in the Golgi apparatus in live cells by a turn-on response. Given the growing interest in imaging Cu(+) in live cells, a novel peptide receptor of Cu(+) will offer the potential for developing a variety of fluorescent probes for Cu(+) in the field of copper biochemistry.

Forty Years of Clathrin-coated Vesicles

The purification of coated vesicles and the discovery of clathrin by Barbara Pearse in 1975 was a landmark in cell biology. Over the past 40 years, work from many labs has uncovered the molecular details of clathrin and its associated proteins, including how they assemble into a coated vesicle and how they select cargo. Unexpected connections have been found with signalling, development, neuronal transmission, infection, immunity and genetic disorders. But there are still a number of unanswered questions, including how clathrin-mediated trafficking is regulated and how the machinery evolved.

Retromer-Mediated Trafficking of Transmembrane Receptors and Transporters

Transport between the endoplasmatic reticulum, the Golgi-network, the endo-lysosomal system and the cell surface can be categorized as anterograde or retrograde, describing traffic that goes forward or backward, respectively. Traffic going from the plasma membrane to endosomes and lysosomes or the trans-Golgi network (TGN) constitutes the major retrograde transport routes. Several transmembrane proteins undergo retrograde transport as part of a recycling mechanism that contributes to reutilization and maintenance of a steady-state protein localization. In addition, some receptors are hijacked by exotoxins and used for entry and intracellular transport. The physiological relevance of retrograde transport cannot be overstated. Retrograde trafficking of the amyloid precursor protein determines the distribution between organelles, and hence the possibility of cleavage by γ-secretase. Right balancing of the pathways is critical for protection against Alzheimer’s disease. During embryonic development, retrograde transport of Wntless to the TGN is essential for the following release of Wnt from the plasma membrane. Furthermore, overexpression of Wntless has been linked to oncogenesis. Here, we review relevant aspects of the retrograde trafficking of mammalian transmembrane receptors and transporters, with focus on the retromer-mediated transport between endosomes and the TGN.

Direct interactions of adaptor protein complexes 1 and 2 with the copper transporter ATP7A mediate its anterograde and retrograde trafficking

ATP7A is a P-type ATPase in which diverse mutations lead to X-linked recessive Menkes disease or occipital horn syndrome. Recently, two previously unknown ATP7A missense mutations, T994I and P1386S, were shown to cause an isolated distal motor neuropathy without clinical or biochemical features of other ATP7A disorders. These mutant alleles cause subtle defects in ATP7A intracellular trafficking, resulting in preferential plasma membrane localization compared with wild-type ATP7A. We reported previously that ATP7A(P1386S) causes unstable insertion of the eighth and final transmembrane segment, preventing proper position of the carboxyl-terminal tail in a proportion of mutant molecules. Here, we utilize this and other naturally occurring and engineered mutant ATP7A alleles to identify mechanisms of normal ATP7A trafficking. We show that adaptor protein (AP) complexes 1 and 2 physically interact with ATP7A and that binding is mediated in part by a carboxyl-terminal di-leucine motif. In contrast to other ATP7A missense mutations, ATP7A(P1386S) partially disturbs interactions with both APs, leading to abnormal axonal localization in transfected NSC-34 motor neurons and altered calcium-signaling following glutamate stimulation. Our results imply that AP-1 normally tethers ATP7A at the trans-Golgi network in the somatodendritic segments of motor neurons and that alterations affecting the ATP7A carboxyl-terminal tail induce release of the copper transporter to the axons or axonal membranes. The latter effects are intensified by diminished interaction with AP-2, impeding ATP7A retrograde trafficking. Taken together, these findings further illuminate the normal molecular mechanisms of ATP7A trafficking and suggest a pathophysiological basis for ATP7A-related distal motor neuropathy.

Polarized sorting of the copper transporter ATP7B in neurons mediated by recognition of a dileucine signal by AP-1

Recognition of dileucine signals by AP-1 mediates somatodendritic sorting of the copper transporter ATP7B and the SNARE VAMP4 in hippocampal neurons, establishing AP-1 as a global regulator of polarized sorting and contributing to the understanding of neuronal copper metabolism under physiological and pathological conditions.

Neurons are highly polarized cells having distinct somatodendritic and axonal domains. Here we report that polarized sorting of the Cu²⁺ transporter ATP7B and the vesicle-SNARE VAMP4 to the somatodendritic domain of rat hippocampal neurons is mediated by recognition of dileucine-based signals in the cytosolic domains of the proteins by the σ1 subunit of the clathrin adaptor AP-1. Under basal Cu²⁺ conditions, ATP7B was localized to the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and the plasma membrane of the soma and dendrites but not the axon. Mutation of a dileucine-based signal in ATP7B or overexpression of a dominant-negative σ1 mutant resulted in nonpolarized distribution of ATP7B between the somatodendritic and axonal domains. Furthermore, addition of high Cu²⁺ concentrations, previously shown to reduce ATP7B incorporation into AP-1–containing clathrin-coated vesicles, caused loss of TGN localization and somatodendritic polarity of ATP7B. These findings support the notion of AP-1 as an effector of polarized sorting in neurons and suggest that altered polarity of ATP7B in polarized cell types might contribute to abnormal copper metabolism in the MEDNIK syndrome, a neurocutaneous disorder caused by mutations in the σ1A subunit isoform of AP-1.

Cellular function and pathological role of ATP13A2 and related P-type transport ATPases in Parkinson's disease and other neurological disorders

Mutations in ATP13A2 lead to Kufor-Rakeb syndrome, a parkinsonism with dementia. ATP13A2 belongs to the P-type transport ATPases, a large family of primary active transporters that exert vital cellular functions. However, the cellular function and transported substrate of ATP13A2 remain unknown. To discuss the role of ATP13A2 in neurodegeneration, we first provide a short description of the architecture and transport mechanism of P-type transport ATPases. Then, we briefly highlight key P-type ATPases involved in neuronal disorders such as the copper transporters ATP7A (Menkes disease), ATP7B (Wilson disease), the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPases ATP1A2 (familial hemiplegic migraine) and ATP1A3 (rapid-onset dystonia parkinsonism). Finally, we review the recent literature of ATP13A2 and discuss ATP13A2's putative cellular function in the light of what is known concerning the functions of other, better-studied P-type ATPases. We critically review the available data concerning the role of ATP13A2 in heavy metal transport and propose a possible alternative hypothesis that ATP13A2 might be a flippase. As a flippase, ATP13A2 may transport an organic molecule, such as a lipid or a peptide, from one membrane leaflet to the other. A flippase might control local lipid dynamics during vesicle formation and membrane fusion events.

ATP7A trafficking and mechanisms underlying the distal motor neuropathy induced by mutations in ATP7A

Diverse mutations in the gene encoding the copper transporter ATP7A lead to X-linked recessive Menkes disease or occipital horn syndrome. Recently, two unique ATP7A missense mutations, T994I and P1386S, were shown to cause isolated adult-onset distal motor neuropathy. These mutations induce subtle defects in ATP7A intracellular trafficking resulting in preferential accumulation at the plasma membrane compared to wild-type ATP7A. Immunoprecipitation assays revealed abnormal interaction between ATP7A(T994I) and p97/VCP, a protein mutated in two autosomal dominant forms of motor neuron disease. Small-interfering RNA knockdown of valosin-containing protein corrected ATP7A(T994I) mislocalization. For ATP7A(P1386S) , flow cytometry documented that nonpermeabilized fibroblasts bound a C-terminal ATP7A antibody, suggesting unstable insertion of the eighth transmembrane segment due to a helix-breaker effect of the amino acid substitution. This could sabotage interaction of ATP7A(P1386S) with adaptor protein complexes. These molecular events appear to selectively disturb normal motor neuron function and lead to neurologic illness that takes years and sometimes decades to develop.

Role of the P-Type ATPases, ATP7A and ATP7B in brain copper homeostasis

Over the past two decades there have been significant advances in our understanding of copper homeostasis and the pathological consequences of copper dysregulation. Cumulative evidence is revealing a complex regulatory network of proteins and pathways that maintain copper homeostasis. The recognition of copper dysregulation as a key pathological feature in prominent neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and prion diseases has led to increased research focus on the mechanisms controlling copper homeostasis in the brain. The copper-transporting P-type ATPases (copper-ATPases), ATP7A and ATP7B, are critical components of the copper regulatory network. Our understanding of the biochemistry and cell biology of these complex proteins has grown significantly since their discovery in 1993. They are large polytopic transmembrane proteins with six copper-binding motifs within the cytoplasmic N-terminal domain, eight transmembrane domains, and highly conserved catalytic domains. These proteins catalyze ATP-dependent copper transport across cell membranes for the metallation of many essential cuproenzymes, as well as for the removal of excess cellular copper to prevent copper toxicity. A key functional aspect of these copper transporters is their copper-responsive trafficking between the trans-Golgi network and the cell periphery. ATP7A- and ATP7B-deficiency, due to genetic mutation, underlie the inherited copper transport disorders, Menkes and Wilson diseases, respectively. Their importance in maintaining brain copper homeostasis is underscored by the severe neuropathological deficits in these disorders. Herein we will review and update our current knowledge of these copper transporters in the brain and the central nervous system, their distribution and regulation, their role in normal brain copper homeostasis, and how their absence or dysfunction contributes to disturbances in copper homeostasis and neurodegeneration.

An overview and update of ATP7A mutations leading to Menkes disease and occipital horn syndrome

Menkes disease (MD) is a lethal multisystemic disorder of copper metabolism. Progressive neurodegeneration and connective tissue disturbances, together with the peculiar "kinky" hair, are the main manifestations. MD is inherited as an X-linked recessive trait, and as expected the vast majority of patients are males. MD occurs because of mutations in the ATP7A gene and the vast majority of ATP7A mutations are intragenic mutations or partial gene deletions. ATP7A is an energy-dependent transmembrane protein, which is involved in the delivery of copper to the secreted copper enzymes and in the export of surplus copper from cells. Severely affected MD patients die usually before the third year of life. A cure for the disease does not exist, but very early copper-histidine treatment may correct some of the neurological symptoms. This study reviews 274 published and 18 novel disease causing mutations identified in 370 unrelated MD patients, nonpathogenic variants of ATP7A, functional studies of the ATP7A mutations, and animal models of MD.

Metal ions in macrophage antimicrobial pathways: emerging roles for zinc and copper

The immunomodulatory and antimicrobial properties of zinc and copper have long been appreciated. In addition, these metal ions are also essential for microbial growth and survival. This presents opportunities for the host to either harness their antimicrobial properties or limit their availability as defence strategies. Recent studies have shed some light on mechanisms by which copper and zinc regulation contribute to host defence, but there remain many unanswered questions at the cellular and molecular levels. Here we review the roles of these two metal ions in providing protection against infectious diseases in vivo, and in regulating innate immune responses. In particular, we focus on studies implicating zinc and copper in macrophage antimicrobial pathways, as well as the specific host genes encoding zinc transporters (SLC30A, SLC39A family members) and CTRs (copper transporters, ATP7 family members) that may contribute to pathogen control by these cells.

Golgi in copper homeostasis: a view from the membrane trafficking field

Copper is essential for a variety of important biological processes as a cofactor and regulator of many enzymes. Incorporation of copper into the secreted and plasma membrane-targeted cuproenzymes takes place in Golgi, a compartment central for normal copper homeostasis. The Golgi complex harbors copper-transporting ATPases, ATP7A and ATP7B that transfer copper from the cytosol into Golgi lumen for incorporation into copper-dependent enzymes. The Golgi complex also sends these ATPases to appropriate post-Golgi destinations to ensure correct Cu fluxes in the body and to avoid potentially toxic copper accumulation. Mutations in ATP7A or ATP7B or in the proteins that regulate their trafficking affect their exit from Golgi or subsequent retrieval to this organelle. This, in turn, disrupts the homeostatic Cu balance, resulting in copper deficiency (Menkes disease) or copper overload (Wilson disease). Research over the last decade has yielded significant insights into the enzymatic properties and cell biology of the copper ATPases. However, the mechanisms through which the Golgi regulates trafficking of ATP7A/7B and, therefore, maintains Cu homeostasis remain unclear. This review summarizes current data on the role of the Golgi in Cu metabolism and outlines questions and challenges that should be addressed to understand ATP7A and ATP7B trafficking mechanisms in health and disease.

Trafficking of the Menkes copper transporter ATP7A is regulated by clathrin-, AP-2-, AP-1-, and Rab22-dependent steps

ATP7A mediates copper absorption and feeds cuproenzymes in the trans-Golgi network. To regulate copper homeostasis, ATP7A cycles between the TGN and plasma membrane. The roles of clathrin, adaptor complexes, lipid rafts, and Rab22a are assessed in an attempt to decipher the regulatory proteins involved in ATP7A cycling.

The transporter ATP7A mediates systemic copper absorption and provides cuproenzymes in the trans-Golgi network (TGN) with copper. To regulate metal homeostasis, ATP7A constitutively cycles between the TGN and plasma membrane (PM). ATP7A trafficking to the PM is elevated in response to increased copper load and is reversed when copper concentrations are lowered. Molecular mechanisms underlying this trafficking are poorly understood. We assess the role of clathrin, adaptor complexes, lipid rafts, and Rab22a in an attempt to decipher the regulatory proteins involved in ATP7A cycling. While RNA interference (RNAi)–mediated depletion of caveolin 1/2 or flotillin had no effect on ATP7A localization, clathrin heavy chain depletion or expression of AP180 dominant-negative mutant not only disrupted clathrin-regulated pathways, but also blocked PM-to-TGN internalization of ATP7A. Depletion of the μ subunits of either adaptor protein-2 (AP-2) or AP-1 using RNAi further provides evidence that both clathrin adaptors are important for trafficking of ATP7A from the PM to the TGN. Expression of the GTP-locked Rab22a_Q64L mutant caused fragmentation of TGN membrane domains enriched for ATP7A. These appear to be a subdomain of the mammalian TGN, showing only partial overlap with the TGN marker golgin-97. Of importance, ATP7A remained in the Rab22a_Q64L-generated structures after copper treatment and washout, suggesting that forward trafficking out of this compartment was blocked. This study provides evidence that multiple membrane-associated factors, including clathrin, AP-2, AP-1, and Rab22, are regulators of ATP7A trafficking.

Altered intracellular localization and valosin-containing protein (p97 VCP) interaction underlie ATP7A-related distal motor neuropathy

ATP7A is a P-type ATPase that regulates cellular copper homeostasis by activity at the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and plasma membrane (PM), with the location normally governed by intracellular copper concentration. Defects in ATP7A lead to Menkes disease or its milder variant, occipital horn syndrome or to a newly discovered condition, ATP7A-related distal motor neuropathy (DMN), for which the precise pathophysiology has been obscure. We investigated two ATP7A motor neuropathy mutations (T994I, P1386S) previously associated with abnormal intracellular trafficking. In the patients' fibroblasts, total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy indicated a shift in steady-state equilibrium of ATP7A(T994I) and ATP7A(P1386S), with exaggerated PM localization. Transfection of Hek293T cells and NSC-34 motor neurons with the mutant alleles tagged with the Venus fluorescent protein also revealed excess PM localization. Endocytic retrieval of the mutant alleles from the PM to the TGN was impaired. Immunoprecipitation assays revealed an abnormal interaction between ATP7A(T994I) and p97/VCP, an ubiquitin-selective chaperone which is mutated in two autosomal dominant forms of motor neuron disease: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and inclusion body myopathy with early-onset Paget disease and fronto-temporal dementia. Small-interfering RNA (SiRNA) knockdown of p97/VCP corrected ATP7A(T994I) mislocalization. Flow cytometry documented that non-permeabilized ATP7A(P1386S) fibroblasts bound a carboxyl-terminal ATP7A antibody, consistent with relocation of the ATP7A di-leucine endocytic retrieval signal to the extracellular surface and partially destabilized insertion of the eighth transmembrane helix. Our findings illuminate the mechanisms underlying ATP7A-related DMN and establish a link between p97/VCP and genetically distinct forms of motor neuron degeneration.

Kinky hair, kinky vessels, and bladder diverticula in Menkes disease

Menkes disease (MD) is an infantile-onset X-linked recessive neurodegenerative disorder caused by deficiency or dysfunction of a copper-transporting ATPase, ATP7A. The effect of altered transportation of copper may affect various enzymatic functions differently. Among all enzymatic functions, lysyl-oxidase enzymatic activity, which is crucial in the formation of the lysine-derived cross-links in collagen and elastin, is the most sensitive to the copper transport alterations. Pili torti, tortuous intracranial vessels and bladder diverticula are clinical aspects strictly related to the connective tissue alterations dependent on the lysyl-oxidase deficiency. Despite a pleiotropic clinical appearance of MD patients, we observed tortuous intracranial vessels and bladder diverticula in 4 consecutive Menkes patients at different stages of the disease. We speculate that these findings are present at early stages and could be considered suggestive findings in MD.

ATP7A-related copper transport diseases-emerging concepts and future trends

This Review summarizes recent advances in understanding copper-transporting ATPase 1 (ATP7A), and examines the neurological phenotypes associated with dysfunction of this protein. Involvement of ATP7A in axonal outgrowth, synapse integrity and neuronal activation underscores the fundamental importance of copper metabolism to neurological function. Defects in ATP7A cause Menkes disease, an infantile-onset, lethal condition. Neonatal diagnosis and early treatment with copper injections enhance survival in patients with this disease, and can normalize clinical outcomes if mutant ATP7A molecules retain small amounts of residual activity. Gene replacement rescues a mouse model of Menkes disease, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for patients with complete loss-of-function ATP7A mutations. Remarkably, a newly discovered ATP7A disorder-isolated distal motor neuropathy-has none of the characteristic clinical or biochemical abnormalities of Menkes disease or its milder allelic variant occipital horn syndrome (OHS), instead resembling Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2. These findings indicate that ATP7A has a crucial but previously unappreciated role in motor neuron maintenance, and that the mechanism underlying ATP7A-related distal motor neuropathy is distinct from Menkes disease and OHS pathophysiology. Collectively, these insights refine our knowledge of the neurology of ATP7A-related copper transport diseases and pave the way for further progress in understanding ATP7A function.

Advances in the understanding of mammalian copper transporters

Copper (Cu) is an essential micronutrient. Its ability to exist in 2 oxidation states (Cu(1+) and Cu(2+)) allows it to function as an enzymatic cofactor in hydrolytic, electron transfer, and oxygen utilization reactions. Cu transporters CTR1, ATP7A, and ATP7B play key roles in ensuring that adequate Cu is available for Cu-requiring processes and the prevention of excess Cu accumulation within cells. Two diseases of Cu metabolism, Menkes disease and Wilson disease, which are caused by mutations in ATP7A and ATP7B, respectively, exemplify the critical importance of regulating Cu balance in humans. Herein, we review recent studies of the biochemical and cell biological characteristics of CTR1, ATP7A, and ATP7B, as well as emerging roles for Cu in new areas of physiology.

Conservation of copper-transporting P(IB)-type ATPase function

Copper-transporting P(IB)-type ATPases are highly conserved, and while unicellular eukaryotes and invertebrates have only one, a gene duplication has occurred during vertebrate evolution. Copper-induced trafficking of mammalian ATP7A and ATP7B from the trans-Golgi Network towards the plasma membrane is critical for their role in copper homeostasis. In polarized epithelial cells ATP7A and ATP7B traffic towards the basolateral and apical membranes respectively. We examined the localization and function of DmATP7, the single Drosophila melanogaster orthologue, in cultured D. melanogaster and mammalian cells to explore the conservation of P(IB)-type ATPase function. Comparative genomic analysis demonstrated motifs involved in basolateral targeting and retention of ATP7A were conserved in DmATP7, whereas ATP7B targeting motifs were not. DmATP7 expression was able to correct the copper hyper-accumulation phenotype of cultured fibroblasts from a Menkes disease patient expressing a null ATP7A allele. DmATP7 was able to transport copper to the cupro-enzyme tyrosinase and under elevated copper conditions DmATP7 was able to traffic towards the plasma membrane and efflux copper, essentially phenocopying ATP7A. When expressed in polarized Madin-Darby Canine Kidney cells, DmATP7 translocated towards the basolateral membrane when exposed to elevated copper, similar to ATP7A. These results demonstrate DmATP7 is able to functionally compensate for the absence of ATP7A, with important trafficking motifs conserved in these distantly related orthologues.

Dysregulation of intracellular copper trafficking pathway in a mouse model of mutant copper/zinc superoxide dismutase-linked familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Mutations in copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) are responsible for 20% of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis through a gain-of-toxic function. We have recently shown that ammonium tetrathiomolybdate, an intracellular copper-chelating reagent, has an excellent therapeutic benefit in a mouse model for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This finding suggests that mutant SOD1 might disrupt intracellular copper homeostasis. In this study, we investigated the effects of mutant SOD1 on the components of the copper trafficking pathway, which regulate intracellular copper homeostasis. We found that mutant, but not wild-type, SOD1 shifts intracellular copper homeostasis toward copper accumulation in the spinal cord during disease progression: copper influx increases, copper chaperones are up-regulated, and copper efflux decreases. This dysregulation was observed within spinal motor neurons and was proportionally associated with an age-dependent increase in spinal copper ion levels. We also found that a subset of the copper trafficking pathway constituents co-aggregated with mutant SOD1. These results indicate that the nature of mutant SOD1 toxicity might involve the dysregulation of the copper trafficking pathway, resulting in the disruption of intracellular copper homeostasis.

Phosphorylation regulates copper-responsive trafficking of the Menkes copper transporting P-type ATPase

The Menkes copper-translocating P-type ATPase (ATP7A) is a critical copper transport protein functioning in systemic copper absorption and supply of copper to cuproenzymes in the secretory pathway. Mutations in ATP7A can lead to the usually lethal Menkes disease. ATP7A function is regulated by copper-responsive trafficking between the trans-Golgi Network and the plasma membrane. We have previously reported basal and copper-responsive kinase phosphorylation of ATP7A but the specific phosphorylation sites had not been identified. As copper stimulates both trafficking and phosphorylation of ATP7A we aimed to identify all the specific phosphosites and to determine whether trafficking and phosphorylation are linked. We identified twenty in vivo phosphorylation sites in the human ATP7A and eight in hamster, all clustered within the N- and C-terminal cytosolic domains. Eight sites were copper-responsive and hence candidates for regulating copper-responsive trafficking or catalytic activity. Mutagenesis of the copper-responsive phosphorylation site Serine-1469 resulted in mislocalization of ATP7A in the presence of added copper in both polarized (Madin Darby canine kidney) and non-polarized (Chinese Hamster Ovary) cells, strongly suggesting that phosphorylation of specific serine residues is required for copper-responsive ATP7A trafficking to the plasma membrane. A constitutively phosphorylated site, Serine-1432, when mutated to alanine also resulted in mislocalization in the presence of added copper in polarized Madin Darby kidney cells. These studies demonstrate that phosphorylation of specific serine residues in ATP7A regulates its sub-cellular localization and hence function and will facilitate identification of the kinases and signaling pathways involved in regulating this pivotal copper transporter.

Apical targeting and Golgi retention signals reside within a 9-amino acid sequence in the copper-ATPase, ATP7B

ATP7B is a copper-transporting P-type ATPase present predominantly in liver. In basal copper, hepatic ATP7B is in a post-trans-Golgi network (TGN) compartment where it loads cytoplasmic Cu(I) onto newly synthesized ceruloplasmin. When copper levels rise, the protein redistributes via unique vesicles to the apical periphery where it exports intracellular Cu(I) into bile. We want to understand the mechanisms regulating the copper-sensitive trafficking of ATP7B. Earlier, our laboratory reported the presence of apical targeting/TGN retention information within residues 1-63 of human ATP7B; deletion of these residues resulted in a mutant protein that was not efficiently retained in the post-TGN in low copper and constitutively trafficked to the basolateral membrane of polarized, hepatic WIF-B cells with and without copper (13). In this study, we used mutagenesis and adenovirus infection of WIF-B cells followed by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy analysis to identify the precise retention/targeting sequences in the context of full-length ATP7B. We also analyzed the expression of selected mutants in livers of copper-deficient and -loaded mice. Our combined results clearly demonstrate that nine amino acids, F(37)AFDNVGYE(45), comprise an essential apical targeting determinant for ATP7B in elevated copper and participate in the TGN retention of the protein under low-copper conditions. The signal is novel, does not require phosphorylation, and is highly conserved in approximately 24 species of ATP7B. Furthermore, N41S, which is part of the signal we identified, is the first and only Wilson disease-causing missense mutation in residues 1-63 of ATP7B. Expression of N41S-ATP7B in WIF-B cells severely disabled the targeting and retention of the protein. We present a working model of how this physiologically relevant signal might work.

The multi-layered regulation of copper translocating P-type ATPases

The copper-translocating Menkes (ATP7A, MNK protein) and Wilson (ATP7B, WND protein) P-type ATPases are pivotal for copper (Cu) homeostasis, functioning in the biosynthetic incorporation of Cu into copper-dependent enzymes of the secretory pathway, Cu detoxification via Cu efflux, and specialized roles such as systemic Cu absorption (MNK) and Cu excretion (WND). Essential to these functions is their Cu and hormone-responsive distribution between the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and exocytic vesicles located at or proximal to the apical (WND) or basolateral (MNK) cell surface. Intriguingly, MNK and WND Cu-ATPases expressed in the same tissues perform distinct yet complementary roles. While intramolecular differences may specify their distinct roles, cellular signaling components are predicted to be critical for both differences and synergy between these enzymes. This review focuses on these mechanisms, including the cell signaling pathways that influence trafficking and bi-functionality of Cu-ATPases. Phosphorylation events are hypothesized to play a central role in Cu homeostasis, promoting multi-layered regulation and cross-talk between cuproenzymes and Cu-independent mechanisms.

Functional analysis of the heavy metal binding domains of the Zn/Cd-transporting ATPase, HMA2, in Arabidopsis thaliana

The Zn/Cd-transporting ATPase, HMA2, has N- and C-terminal domains that can bind Zn ions with high affinity. Mutant derivatives were generated to determine the significance of these domains to HMA2 function in planta. Mutant derivatives, with and without a C-terminal GFP tag, were expressed from the HMA2 promoter in transgenic hma2,hma4, Zn-deficient, plants to test for functionality. A deletion mutant lacking the C-terminal 244 amino acids rescued most of the hma2,hma4 Zn-deficiency phenotypes with the exception of embryo or seed development. Root-to-shoot Cd translocation was fully rescued. The GFP-tagged derivative was partially mis-localized in the root pericycle cells in which it was expressed. Deletion derivatives lacking the C-terminal 121 and 21 amino acids rescued all phenotypes and localized normally. N-terminal domain mutants localized normally but failed to complement the hma2,hma4 phenotypes. These observations suggest that the N-terminal domain of HMA2 is essential for function in planta while the C-terminal domain, although not essential for function, may contain a signal important for the subcellular localization of the protein.

Activation of ADP-ribosylation factor regulates biogenesis of the ATP7A-containing trans-Golgi network compartment and its Cu-induced trafficking

ATP7A (MNK) regulates copper homeostasis by translocating from a compartment localized within the trans-Golgi network to the plasma membrane (PM) in response to increased copper load. The mechanisms that regulate the biogenesis of the MNK compartment and the trafficking of MNK are unclear. Here we show that the architecture of the MNK compartment is linked to the structure of the Golgi ribbon. Depletion of p115 tethering factor, which causes fragmentation of the Golgi ribbon, also disrupts the MNK compartment. In p115-depleted cells, MNK localizes to punctate structures that pattern on Golgi ministacks dispersed throughout the cell. Despite altered localization MNK trafficking still occurs, and MNK relocates from and returns to the fragmented compartment in response to copper. We further show that the biogenesis of the MNK compartment requires activation of ADP-ribosylation factor (Arf)1 GTPase, shown previously to facilitate the biogenesis of the Golgi ribbon. Activation of cellular Arf1 is prevented by 1) expressing an inactive "empty" form of Arf (Arf1/N126I), 2) expressing an inactive form of GBF1 (GBF1/E794K), guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Arf1, or 3) treating cells with brefeldin A, an inhibitor of GBF1 that disrupts MNK into a diffuse pattern. Importantly, preventing Arf activation inhibits copper-responsive trafficking of MNK to the PM. Our findings support a model in which active Arf is essential for the generation of the MNK compartment and for copper-responsive trafficking of MNK from there to the PM. Our findings provide an exciting foundation for identifying Arf1 effectors that facilitate the biogenesis of the MNK compartment and MNK traffic.

Function and regulation of human copper-transporting ATPases

Copper-transporting ATPases (Cu-ATPases) ATP7A and ATP7B are evolutionarily conserved polytopic membrane proteins with essential roles in human physiology. The Cu-ATPases are expressed in most tissues, and their transport activity is crucial for central nervous system development, liver function, connective tissue formation, and many other physiological processes. The loss of ATP7A or ATP7B function is associated with severe metabolic disorders, Menkes disease, and Wilson disease. In cells, the Cu-ATPases maintain intracellular copper concentration by transporting copper from the cytosol across cellular membranes. They also contribute to protein biosynthesis by delivering copper into the lumen of the secretory pathway where metal ion is incorporated into copper-dependent enzymes. The biosynthetic and homeostatic functions of Cu-ATPases are performed in different cell compartments; targeting to these compartments and the functional activity of Cu-ATPase are both regulated by copper. In recent years, significant progress has been made in understanding the structure, function, and regulation of these essential transporters. These studies raised many new questions related to specific physiological roles of Cu-ATPases in various tissues and complex mechanisms that control the Cu-ATPase function. This review summarizes current data on the structural organization and functional properties of ATP7A and ATP7B as well as their localization and functions in various tissues, and discusses the current models of regulated trafficking of human Cu-ATPases.

Molecular pathogenesis of Wilson and Menkes disease: correlation of mutations with molecular defects and disease phenotypes

The trace metal copper is essential for a variety of biological processes, but extremely toxic when present in excessive amounts. Therefore, concentrations of this metal in the body are kept under tight control. Central regulators of cellular copper metabolism are the copper-transporting P-type ATPases ATP7A and ATP7B. Mutations in ATP7A or ATP7B disrupt the homeostatic copper balance, resulting in copper deficiency (Menkes disease) or copper overload (Wilson disease), respectively. ATP7A and ATP7B exert their functions in copper transport through a variety of interdependent mechanisms and regulatory events, including their catalytic ATPase activity, copper-induced trafficking, post-translational modifications and protein-protein interactions. This paper reviews the extensive efforts that have been undertaken over the past few years to dissect and characterise these mechanisms, and how these are affected in Menkes and Wilson disease. As both disorders are characterised by an extensive clinical heterogeneity, we will discus how the underlying genetic defects correlate with the molecular functions of ATP7A and ATP7B and with the clinical expression of these disorders.

Biochemical basis of regulation of human copper-transporting ATPases

Copper is essential for cell metabolism as a cofactor of key metabolic enzymes. The biosynthetic incorporation of copper into secreted and plasma membrane-bound proteins requires activity of the copper-transporting ATPases (Cu-ATPases) ATP7A and ATP7B. The Cu-ATPases also export excess copper from the cell and thus critically contribute to the homeostatic control of copper. The trafficking of Cu-ATPases from the trans-Golgi network to endocytic vesicles in response to various signals allows for the balance between the biosynthetic and copper exporting functions of these transporters. Although significant progress has been made towards understanding the biochemical characteristics of human Cu-ATPase, the mechanisms that control their function and intracellular localization remain poorly understood. In this review, we summarize current information on structural features and functional properties of ATP7A and ATP7B. We also describe sequence motifs unique for each Cu-ATPase and speculate about their role in regulating ATP7A and ATP7B activity and trafficking.

Trafficking of the copper-ATPases, ATP7A and ATP7B: Role in copper homeostasis

Copper is essential for human health and copper imbalance is a key factor in the aetiology and pathology of several neurodegenerative diseases. The copper-transporting P-type ATPases, ATP7A and ATP7B are key molecules required for the regulation and maintenance of mammalian copper homeostasis. Their absence or malfunction leads to the genetically inherited disorders, Menkes and Wilson diseases, respectively. These proteins have a dual role in cells, namely to provide copper to essential cuproenzymes and to mediate the excretion of excess intracellular copper. A unique feature of ATP7A and ATP7B that is integral to these functions is their ability to sense and respond to intracellular copper levels, the latter manifested through their copper-regulated trafficking from the transGolgi network to the appropriate cellular membrane domain (basolateral or apical, respectively) to eliminate excess copper from the cell. Research over the last decade has yielded significant insight into the enzymatic properties and cell biology of the copper-ATPases. With recent advances in elucidating their localization and trafficking in human and animal tissues in response to physiological stimuli, we are progressing rapidly towards an integrated understanding of their physiological significance at the level of the whole animal. This knowledge in turn is helping to clarify the biochemical and cellular basis not only for the phenotypes conferred by individual Menkes and Wilson disease patient mutations, but also for the clinical variability of phenotypes associated with each of these diseases. Importantly, this information is also providing a rational basis for the applicability and appropriateness of certain diagnostic markers and therapeutic regimes. This overview will provide an update on the current state of our understanding of the localization and trafficking properties of the copper-ATPases in cells and tissues, the molecular signals and posttranslational interactions that govern their trafficking activities, and the cellular basis for the clinical phenotypes associated with disease-causing mutations.