Tubulin: an integral protein of mammalian synaptic vesicle membranes

SH3- and actin-binding domains connect ADNP and SHANK3, revealing a fundamental shared mechanism underlying autism

De novo heterozygous mutations in activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) cause autistic ADNP syndrome. ADNP mutations impair microtubule (MT) function, essential for synaptic activity. The ADNP MT-associating fragment NAPVSIPQ (called NAP) contains an MT end-binding protein interacting domain, SxIP (mimicking the active-peptide, SKIP). We hypothesized that not all ADNP mutations are similarly deleterious and that the NAPV portion of NAPVSIPQ is biologically active. Using the eukaryotic linear motif (ELM) resource, we identified a Src homology 3 (SH3) domain-ligand association site in NAP responsible for controlling signaling pathways regulating the cytoskeleton, namely NAPVSIP. Altogether, we mapped multiple SH3-binding sites in ADNP. Comparisons of the effects of ADNP mutations p.Glu830synfs*83, p.Lys408Valfs*31, p.Ser404* on MT dynamics and Tau interactions (live-cell fluorescence-microscopy) suggested spared toxic function in p.Lys408Valfs*31, with a regained SH3-binding motif due to the frameshift insertion. Site-directed-mutagenesis, abolishing the p.Lys408Valfs*31 SH3-binding motif, produced MT toxicity. NAP normalized MT activities in the face of all ADNP mutations, although, SKIP, missing the SH3-binding motif, showed reduced efficacy in terms of MT-Tau interactions, as compared with NAP. Lastly, SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains protein 3 (SHANK3), a major autism gene product, interact with the cytoskeleton through an actin-binding motif to modify behavior. Similarly, ELM analysis identified an actin-binding site on ADNP, suggesting direct SH3 and indirect SHANK3/ADNP associations. Actin co-immunoprecipitations from mouse brain extracts showed NAP-mediated normalization of Shank3-Adnp-actin interactions. Furthermore, NAP treatment ameliorated aberrant behavior in mice homozygous for the Shank3 ASD-linked InsG3680 mutation, revealing a fundamental shared mechanism between ADNP and SHANK3.

The Association between α-Synuclein and α-Tubulin in Brain Synapses

α-synuclein is a small protein that is mainly expressed in the synaptic terminals of nervous tissue. Although its implication in neurodegeneration is well established, the physiological role of α-synuclein remains elusive. Given its involvement in the modulation of synaptic transmission and the emerging role of microtubules at the synapse, the current study aimed at investigating whether α-synuclein becomes involved with this cytoskeletal component at the presynapse. We first analyzed the expression of α-synuclein and its colocalization with α-tubulin in murine brain. Differences were found between cortical and striatal/midbrain areas, with substantia nigra pars compacta and corpus striatum showing the lowest levels of colocalization. Using a proximity ligation assay, we revealed the direct interaction of α-synuclein with α-tubulin in murine and in human brain. Finally, the previously unexplored interaction of the two proteins in vivo at the synapse was disclosed in murine striatal presynaptic boutons through multiple approaches, from confocal spinning disk to electron microscopy. Collectively, our data strongly suggest that the association with tubulin/microtubules might actually be an important physiological function for α-synuclein in the synapse, thus suggesting its potential role in a neuropathological context.

Non-microtubule tubulin-based backbone and subordinate components of postsynaptic density lattices

This study proposes a postsynaptic density (PSD) lattice model comprising a non-microtubule tubulin-based backbone structure and its associated proteins, including various PSD scaffold/adaptor proteins and other PSD proteins.

A purification protocol was developed to identify and analyze the component proteins of a postsynaptic density (PSD) lattice, a core structure of the PSD of excitatory synapses in the central nervous system. “Enriched”- and “lean”-type PSD lattices were purified by synaptic plasma membrane treatment to identify the protein components by comprehensive shotgun mass spectrometry and group them into minimum essential cytoskeleton (MEC) and non-MEC components. Tubulin was found to be a major component of the MEC, with non-microtubule tubulin widely distributed on the purified PSD lattice. The presence of tubulin in and around PSDs was verified by post-embedding immunogold labeling EM of cerebral cortex. Non-MEC proteins included various typical scaffold/adaptor PSD proteins and other class PSD proteins. Thus, this study provides a new PSD lattice model consisting of non-microtubule tubulin-based backbone and various non-MEC proteins. Our findings suggest that tubulin is a key component constructing the backbone and that the associated components are essential for the versatile functions of the PSD.

Tubulin βII and βIII Isoforms as the Regulators of VDAC Channel Permeability in Health and Disease

In recent decades, there have been several models describing the relationships between the cytoskeleton and the bioenergetic function of the cell. The main player in these models is the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC), located in the mitochondrial outer membrane. Most metabolites including respiratory substrates, ADP, and Pi enter mitochondria only through VDAC. At the same time, high-energy phosphates are channeled out and directed to cellular energy transfer networks. Regulation of these energy fluxes is controlled by β-tubulin, bound to VDAC. It is also thought that β-tubulin‒VDAC interaction modulates cellular energy metabolism in cancer, e.g., switching from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis. In this review we focus on the described roles of unpolymerized αβ-tubulin heterodimers in regulating VDAC permeability for adenine nucleotides and cellular bioenergetics. We introduce the Mitochondrial Interactosome model and the function of the βII-tubulin subunit in this model in muscle cells and brain synaptosomes, and also consider the role of βIII-tubulin in cancer cells.

The Progestin Receptor Interactome in the Female Mouse Hypothalamus: Interactions with Synaptic Proteins Are Isoform Specific and Ligand Dependent

Progestins bind to the progestin receptor (PR) isoforms, PR-A and PR-B, in brain to influence development, female reproduction, anxiety, and stress. Hormone-activated PRs associate with multiple proteins to form functional complexes. In the present study, proteins from female mouse hypothalamus that associate with PR were isolated using affinity pull-down assays with glutathione S-transferase–tagged mouse PR-A and PR-B. Using complementary proteomics approaches, reverse phase protein array (RPPA) and mass spectrometry, we identified hypothalamic proteins that interact with PR in a ligand-dependent and isoform-specific manner and were confirmed by Western blot. Synaptic proteins, including synapsin-I and synapsin-II, interacted with agonist-bound PR isoforms, suggesting that both isoforms function in synaptic plasticity. In further support, synaptogyrin-III and synapsin-III associated with PR-A and PR-B, respectively. PR also interacted with kinases, including c-Src, mTOR, and MAPK1, confirming phosphorylation as an integral process in rapid effects of PR in the brain. Consistent with a role in transcriptional regulation, PR associated with transcription factors and coactivators in a ligand-specific and isoform-dependent manner. Interestingly, both PR isoforms associated with a key regulator of energy homeostasis, FoxO1, suggesting a novel role for PR in energy metabolism. Because many identified proteins in this PR interactome are synaptic proteins, we tested the hypothesis that progestins function in synaptic plasticity. Indeed, progesterone enhanced synaptic density, by increasing synapsin-I–positive synapses, in rat primary cortical neuronal cultures. This novel combination of RPPA and mass spectrometry allowed identification of PR action in synaptic remodeling and energy homeostasis and reveals unique roles for progestins in brain function and disease.

TRPV1-tubulin complex: involvement of membrane tubulin in the regulation of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy

Existence of microtubule cytoskeleton at the membrane and submembranous regions, referred as 'membrane tubulin' has remained controversial for a long time. Since we reported physical and functional interaction of Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Sub Type 1 (TRPV1) with microtubules and linked the importance of TRPV1-tubulin complex in the context of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, a few more reports have characterized this interaction in in vitro and in in vivo condition. However, the cross-talk between TRPs with microtubule cytoskeleton, and the complex feedback regulations are not well understood. Sequence analysis suggests that other than TRPV1, few TRPs can potentially interact with microtubules. The microtubule interaction with TRPs has evolutionary origin and has a functional significance. Biochemical evidence, Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer analysis along with correlation spectroscopy and fluorescence anisotropy measurements have confirmed that TRPV1 interacts with microtubules in live cell and this interaction has regulatory roles. Apart from the transport of TRPs and maintaining the cellular structure, microtubules regulate signaling and functionality of TRPs at the single channel level. Thus, TRPV1-tubulin interaction sets a stage where concept and parameters of 'membrane tubulin' can be tested in more details. In this review, I critically analyze the advancements made in biochemical, pharmacological, behavioral as well as cell-biological observations and summarize the limitations that need to be overcome in the future.

Plasma membrane tubulin

The association of tubulin with the plasma membrane comprises multiple levels of penetration into the bilayer: from integral membrane protein, to attachment via palmitoylation, to surface binding, and to microtubules attached by linker proteins to proteins in the membrane. Here we discuss the soundness and weaknesses of the chemical and biochemical evidence marshaled to support these associations, as well as the mechanisms by which tubulin or microtubules may regulate functions at the plasma membrane.

Identification and characterisation of novel tubulin-binding motifs located within the C-terminus of TRPV1

Previously, we reported that TRPV1, the vanilloid receptor, interacts with soluble alphabeta-tubulin dimers as well as microtubules via its C-terminal cytoplasmic domain. The interacting region of TRPV1, however, has not been defined. We found that the TRPV1 C-terminus preferably interacts with beta-tubulin and less with alpha-tubulin. Using a systematic deletion approach and biotinylated-peptides we identified two tubulin-binding sites present in TRPV1. These two sequence stretches are highly conserved in all known mammalian TRPV1 orthologues and partially conserved in some of the TRPV1 homologues. As these sequence stretches are not similar to any known tubulin-binding sequences, we conclude that TRPV1 interacts with tubulin and microtubule through two novel tubulin-binding motifs.

Peptide neuroprotection through specific interaction with brain tubulin

This study aimed to identify the neuronal target for the potent neuroprotective peptide NAP. When added to pheochromocytoma cells (neuronal model), NAP was found in the intracellular milieu and was co-localized with microtubules. NAP induced neurite outgrowth and protected primary neurons against microtubule-associated ZnCl2 toxicity. Rapid microtubule reorganization into distinct microtubules ensued after NAP addition to both pheochromocytoma cells and primary cerebral cortical neurons, but not to fibrobalsts. While binding neuronal tubulin and protecting pheochromocytoma cells against oxidative stress, NAP did not bind tubulin extracted from fibroblasts, nor did it protect those cells against oxidative stress. Affinity chromatography identified the brain-specific betaIII-tubulin as a major NAP binding protein. Paclitaxel (a microtubule aggregating agent that interacts with beta-tubulin) reduced NAP tubulin binding. Thus, the underlying mechanism for the neuroprotection offered by NAP is targeting neuronal microtubules that are essential for neuronal survival and function.

Regulation of acetylated tubulin/Na+,K+-ATPase interaction by l-glutamate in non-neural cells: involvement of microtubules

A subpopulation of membrane tubulin consisting mainly of the acetylated isotype is associated with Na+,K+-ATPase and inhibits the enzyme activity. We found recently that treatment of cultured astrocytes with L-glutamate induces dissociation of the acetylated tubulin/Na+,K+-ATPase complex, resulting in increased enzyme activity. We now report occurrence of this phenomenon in non-neural cells. As in the case of astrocytes, the effect of L-glutamate is mediated by its transporters and not by specific receptors. In COS cells, the effect of L-glutamate was reversed by its elimination from culture medium, provided that d-glucose was present. The effect of L-glutamate was not observed when Na+ was replaced by K+ in the incubation medium. The ionophore monensin, in the presence of Na+, had the same effect as L-glutamate. Treatment of cells with taxol prevented the dissociating effect of L-glutamate or monensin. Nocodazole treatment of intact cells or isolated membranes dissociated the acetylated tubulin/Na+,K+-ATPase complex. The dissociating effect of nocodazol does not require Na+. These results indicate a close functional relationship among Na+,K+-ATPase, microtubules, and L-glutamate transporters, and a possible role in cell signaling pathways.

A role for epsin N-terminal homology/AP180 N-terminal homology (ENTH/ANTH) domains in tubulin binding

The epsin N-terminal homology (ENTH) domain is a protein module of approximately 150 amino acids found at the N terminus of a variety of proteins identified in yeast, plants, nematode, frog, and mammals. ENTH domains comprise multiple alpha-helices folded upon each other to form a compact globular structure that has been implicated in interactions with lipids and proteins. In characterizing this evolutionarily conserved domain, we isolated and identified tubulin as an ENTH domain-binding partner. The interaction, which is direct and has a dissociation constant of approximately 1 microm, was observed with ENTH domains of proteins present in various species. Tubulin is co-immunoprecipitated from rat brain extracts with the ENTH domain-containing proteins, epsins 1 and 2, and punctate epsin staining is observed along the microtubule cytoskeleton of dissociated cortical neurons. Consistent with a role in microtubule processes, the over-expression of epsin ENTH domain in PC12 cells stimulates neurite outgrowth. These data demonstrate an evolutionarily conserved property of ENTH domains to interact with tubulin and microtubules.

Involvement of acetylated tubulin in the regulation of Na+,K+ -ATPase activity in cultured astrocytes

The results presented support the view that the modulation of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity in living cells involves the association/dissociation of acetylated tubulin with the enzyme. We found that the stimulation of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity by L-glutamate correlates with decreased acetylated tubulin quantity associated with the enzyme. The effect of L-glutamate was abolished by the glutamate transporter inhibitor DL-threo-beta-hydroxyaspartate but was not affected by either specific agonists or antagonists. The effect of L-glutamate seems to be mediated by Na(+) entry resulting from glutamate transport, since the Na(+) ionophore monensin produced stimulation of Na(+),K(+)-ATPase activity with concomitant decrease of acetylated tubulin quantity associated with the enzyme.

Brain plasma membrane Na+,K+-ATPase is inhibited by acetylated tubulin

Membranes from brain tissue contain tubulin that can be isolated as a hydrophobic compound by partitioning into Triton X-114. The hydrophobic behavior of this tubulin is due to the formation of a complex with the alpha-subunit of Na+,K+-ATPase. In the present work we show that the interaction of tubulin with Na+K+-ATPase inhibits the enzyme activity. We found that the magnitude of the inhibition is correlated with: (1) concentration of the acetylated tubulin isoform present in the tubulin preparation used, and (2) amount of acetylated tubulin isoform isolated as a hydrophobic compound. In addition, some compounds involved in the catalytic action of Na+K+-ATPase were assayed to determine their effects on the inhibitory capability of tubulin on this enzyme. The inhibitory effect of tubulin was only slightly decreased by ATP at relatively low nucleotide concentration (0.06 mM). NaCl (1-160 mM) and KCl (0.2-10 mM) showed no effect whereas inorganic phosphate abolished the inhibitory effect of tubulin in a concentration-dependent manner.

Muscarinic receptor activation promotes the membrane association of tubulin for the regulation of Gq-mediated phospholipase Cbeta(1) signaling

The microtubule protein tubulin regulates adenylyl cyclase and phospholipase Cbeta(1) (PLCbeta(1)) signaling via transactivation of the G-protein subunits Galphas, Galphai1, and Galphaq. Because most tubulin is not membrane associated, this study investigates whether tubulin translocates to the membrane in response to an agonist so that it might regulate G-protein signaling. This was studied in SK-N-SH neuroblastoma cells, which possess a muscarinic receptor-regulated PLCbeta(1)-signaling pathway. Tubulin, at nanomolar concentrations, transactivated Galphaq by the direct transfer of a GTP analog and potentiated carbachol-activated PLCbeta(1). A specific and time-dependent association of tubulin with plasma membranes was observed when SK-N-SH cells were treated with carbachol. The same phenomenon was observed with membranes from Sf9 cells, expressing a recombinant PLCbeta(1) cascade. The time course of this event was concordant both with transactivation of Galphaq by the direct transfer of [(32)P]P(3)(4-azidoanilido)-P(1)-5'-GTP from tubulin as well as with the activation of PLCbeta(1). In SK-N-SH cells, carbachol induced a rapid and transient translocation of tubulin to the plasma membrane, microtubule reorganization, and a change in cell shape as demonstrated by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy. These observations presented a spatial and temporal resolution of the sequence of events underlying receptor-evoked involvement of tubulin in G-protein-mediated signaling. It is suggested that G-protein-coupled receptors might modulate cytoskeletal dynamics, intracellular traffic, and cellular architecture.

Tubulin anchoring to glycolipid-enriched, detergent-resistant domains of the neuronal plasma membrane

After incubation of intact living cultured rat cerebellar granule cells at 37 degrees C with a new GM1 ganglioside analog, carrying a diazirine group and labeled with (125)I in the ceramide moiety, followed by photoactivation, a relatively small number of radiolabeled proteins were detected in a membrane-enriched fraction. A protein of about 55 kDa with a pI of about 5 carried a large portion of the radioactivity even if incubation and cross-linking were performed at 4 degrees C and in the presence of inhibitors of endocytosis, suggesting that it is cross-linked at the plasma membrane. Immunoprecipitation and Western blotting experiments showed the positivity of this protein for tubulin. Trypsin treatment of intact cells ruled out the involvement of a plasma membrane surface tubulin. Release of radioactivity from cross-linked tubulin after KOH treatment (but not hydroxylamine treatment) suggested that the photoactivated ganglioside reacts with an ester-linked fatty acid anchor of tubulin. Low buoyancy, detergent-resistant membrane fractions, isolated from cells after incubation with the GM1 analogue and photoactivation, proved their enrichment in endogenous and radioactive GM1 ganglioside, sphingomyelin, cholesterol, signal transduction proteins, and tubulin. It is noteworthy that radioactive tubulin was also detected in this fraction, indicating the presence of tubulin molecules carrying a fatty acid anchor in detergent-resistant, ganglioside-enriched domains of the plasma membrane. Parallel experiments carried out with a phosphatidylcholine analogue, also carrying a diazirine group and labeled with (125)I in the fatty acid moiety, showed the specificity of tubulin interaction with GM1. Taken together, these results indicate that some tubulin molecules are associated with a lipid anchor to detergent-resistant glycolipid-enriched domains of the plasma membrane. This novel feature of membrane domains can provide a key for a better understanding of their biological role.

Na+,K+-ATPase was found to be the membrane component responsible for the hydrophobic behavior of the brain membrane tubulin

We have previously described that the tubulin isolated from brain membranes as a hydrophobic compound by partitioning into Triton X-114 is a peripheral membrane protein [corrected]. The hydrophobic behavior of this tubulin is due to its interaction with membrane protein(s) and the interaction occurs principally with the acetylated tubulin isotype. In the present work we identified the membrane protein that interacts with tubulin as the Na+,K+-ATPase alpha subunit by amino acid sequencing. Using purified brain Na+,K+-ATPase we were able to isolate part of the total hydrophilic tubulin as a hydrophobic compound which contains a high proportion of the acetylated tubulin isotype.

Is signal transduction modulated by an interaction between heterotrimeric G-proteins and tubulin?

Although it is generally accepted that tubulin plays an important role in G-protein-mediated signal transduction in a variety of systems, the mechanism of this phenomenon is not completely understood. G-protein-tubulin interaction at the cell membrane and the cytosol, and the influence of such an interaction on cellular signaling are discussed in this review article. Because the diameter of a microtubule is 25 nm and the plasma membrane is 9-11 nm thick, it is not possible for membrane-associated tubulin to assemble into a complete microtubule in the membrane environment. However, tubulin heterodimers may be able to function in the membrane environment as individual heterodimers or as polymers arranged into short protofilaments. At the cell membrane, membrane-associated tubulin may influence hormone-receptor interaction, receptor-G-protein coupling, and G-protein-effector coupling. Structural proteins, such as tubulin, can participate in cellular signaling by communicating through physical forces. By virtue of its interaction with the submembranous network of cytoskeletal proteins, tubulin, when perturbed in one locus, can transmit large changes in conformations to other points. Thus, GTP binding to membrane-associated tubulin might lead to a conformational change in either receptors or G proteins. This may, in turn, influence the binding of an agonist to its receptor. On the other hand, in the cell cytosol, subsequent to agonist-induced translocation of G-proteins from the membrane compartment to the cytosol, G-proteins may affect microtubule formation. In GH3 and AtT-20 cells (stably expressing TRH receptor), transiently transfected with Gq alpha cDNA, soluble tubulin levels decreased in Gq alpha-transfected GH3 and AtT-20 cells, by 33% and 52%, respectively. These results suggest that G-proteins may have a direct effect on the microtubule function in vivo. Because tubulin and G-protein families are ubiquitous and highly conserved, an interaction between these two protein families may occur in vivo, and this, in turn, can have an impact on signal transduction. However, the physiological significance of this interaction remains to be demonstrated.

Microtubule organization and the distribution of gamma-tubulin in spermatogenesis of a beetle, Tenebrio molitor (Tenebrionidae, Coleoptera, Insecta)

The present study focuses on the restructuring of the microtubule (MT) cytoskeleton and microtubule-organizing centres (MTOCs) throughout spermatogenesis of a darkling beetle, Tenebrio molitor (Tenebrionidae, Coleoptera, Insecta). To this end, serial ultrathin sections through male germ cells were studied using transmission electron microscopy. Additionally, spindles and young spermatids were isolated from testes under MT-stabilizing conditions and doubly labeled with antibodies against beta- and gamma-tubulin. The latter is a tubulin isoform detected in MTOCs of a wide variety of species. The observations suggest that microtubules may be nucleated from sites with and without high gamma-tubulin content and that these sites do not necessarily possess canonical centrosomes. In a prominent cytoplasmic MT system of primary spermatocytes in prophase, microtubule nucleation apparently occurs in the absence of immunologically detectable gamma-tubulin. At the poles of meiotic spindles, MTs are directly inserted into gamma-tubulin-containing material and this connection is considered responsible for their nucleation. The interzone spindle MTs of telophase cells contain gamma-tubulin and this may confer stability to them. Finally, manchette MTs of spermatids originate in the vicinity of the acrosome precursor but are not inserted into this body. The acrosome precursor is surrounded by a membrane and is clearly detected by the antibody against gamma-tubulin.

The synaptic vesicle and its targets

Synaptic vesicles play the central role in synaptic transmission. They are regarded as key organelles involved in synaptic functions such as uptake, storage and stimulus-dependent release of neurotransmitter. In the last few years our knowledge concerning the molecular components involved in the functioning of synaptic vesicles has grown impressively. Combined biochemical and molecular genetic approaches characterize many constituents of synaptic vesicles in molecular detail and contribute to an elaborate understanding of the organelle responsible for fast neuronal signalling. By studying synaptic vesicles from the electric organ of electric rays and from the mammalian cerebral cortex several proteins have been characterized as functional carriers of vesicle function, including proteins involved in the molecular cascade of exocytosis. The synaptic vesicle specific proteins, their presumptive function and targets of synaptic vesicle proteins will be discussed. This paper focuses on the small synaptic vesicles responsible for fast neuronal transmission. Comparing synaptic vesicles from the peripheral and central nervous systems strengthens the view of a high conservation in the overall composition of synaptic vesicles with a unique set of proteins attributed to this cellular compartment. Synaptic vesicle proteins belong to gene families encoding multiple isoforms present in subpopulations of neurons. The overall architecture of synaptic vesicle proteins is highly conserved during evolution and homologues of these proteins govern the constitutive secretion in yeast. Neurotoxins from different sources helped to identify target proteins of synaptic vesicles and to elucidate the molecular machinery of docking and fusion. Synaptic vesicle proteins and their markers are useful tools for the understanding of the complex life cycle of synaptic vesicles.

The relationship of hydrophobic tubulin with membranes in neural tissue

Brain membrane preparations contain tubulin that can be extracted with Triton X-114. After the extract is allowed to partition, 8% of the total brain tubulin is isolated as a hydrophobic compound in the detergent-rich phase. Cytosolic tubulin does not show this hydrophobic behaviour since it is recovered in the aqueous phase. Membrane tubulin can be released by 0.1 M Na2 CO3 treatment at pH > or = 11.5 in such a way that the hydrophobic tubulin is converted into the hydrophilic form. These results suggest that tubulin exists associated with some membrane component that confers the hydrophobic behaviour to tubulin. If the tissue is homogenized in microtubule-stabilizing buffer containing Triton X-100, the hydrophobic tubulin is isolated from the microtubule fraction. This result indicates that the hydrophobic tubulin isolated from membrane preparations belongs to microtubules that in vivo are associated to membranes. Therefore, hydrophobic tubulin (tubulin-membrane component complex) can be obtained from membranes or from microtubules depending on the conditions of brain homogenization.

Identification and characterization of a tubulin binding protein in rat brain plasma membrane

Studies on the interaction of FITC-tubulin and 125I-tubulin with isolated plasma membrane of neural cells and with primary cultures of neuronal (N) and glial (G) cells of rat brain demonstrate the presence of specific, saturable, high affinity tubulin binding sites in these cells. The positive fluorescence of live unfixed primary cultures of N and G cells following incubation with FITC-tubulin indicate that the tubulin binding sites are located on the outer side of the plasma membrane. Such fluorescence was not observed with FITC-BSA, FITC-conalbumin or freshly dissociated cells from rat tissues or established cell lines. Binding of FITC-tubulin or 125I-tubulin is competed only by tubulin and not by other proteins. Scatchard analysis of the binding of 125I-tubulin to purified plasma membrane indicates very high affinity (Kd = 85 nM) with a Bmax of 7.4 pmol/mg protein. The putative tubulin receptor was partially purified by affinity chromatography on tubulin-sepharose column. Immunoprecipitation of the solubilized tubulin-receptor complex followed by SDS-PAGE analysis and autoradiography, revealed the presence of two components of molecular weights 70 and 45 kDa respectively, presumably representing the two nonidentical subunits of the putative receptor. In conjunction with several recent reports indicating the secretion of high molecular weight proteins from cultured neural cells and the ability of tubulin to modulate adenyl cyclase in synaptic membranes these findings suggest that the binding of exogenous tubulin to sites external to the plasma membrane may be involved in signal transduction.

Neocortex and hippocampus contain distinct distributions of calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II and GAP43 mRNA

Calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II and GAP43 are two molecules which have been linked to synaptic plasticity. Localization of mRNA for these molecules identifies the neuronal populations which have the potential to utilize these mechanisms. General descriptions for calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II or GAP43 mRNA have been previously reported. In light of recent evidence that suggests that at some sites these two molecules may interact, we sought to determine the cortical distribution in detail, and to examine the extent of overlap between neuronal populations containing each mRNA. To this end we have used in situ hybridization techniques to study the distribution of calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II and GAP43 mRNA in adjacent sections of adult rat forebrain. Overall, the distribution patterns were distinct but partially overlapping. For both calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II and GAP43, mRNA levels were highest in hippocampus, allo- and neocortex, compared to moderate to low levels in striatum and thalamic nuclei. Within the heavily labeled regions certain populations expressed both calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II and GAP43 mRNA at high levels, while other populations were selective for calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II. In the hippocampus, the stratum pyramidale of CA1-3 expressed high levels of both calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II and GAP43 mRNA. Granule cells of the fascia dentata and the stratum radiatum of CA3 both contained moderate to high levels of calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II mRNA, but near background levels of GAP43 mRNA label. Within the neocortex, deep layers were distinguished from superficial layers by their lack of calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II mRNA expression within the neuropil, and the presence of GAP43 mRNA in neurons located in layer V and the deepest part of layer VI. Thus, layer V and deep layer VI neurons showed high levels of label for both GAP43 and calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II mRNA, while neurons of superficial layers contained only calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II mRNA. These markers differentiate neuronal populations which can also be distinguished on the basis of their ability to undergo specific forms of synaptic plasticity. These different forms of plasticity may be due in part to the laminar-specific patterns of GAP43 and calcium-calmodulin protein kinase II mRNA that we have described.

Effects of microtubule agents on the spatial and electrical properties of the plasma membrane inChara corallina

The freshwater algaChara corallina Klein ex Willd., em. R.D.W. (=C. australis R.Br.) develops alternating outward (acid) and inward (alkaline) current areas on its surface when illuminated. Exposure of cells to vinblastine, colchicine, or oryzalin caused a reduction in and a shifting of this extracellular current pattern. Removal of these agents from the bathing media resulted in regeneration of the initial current profile. Because these agents all affect tubulin, microtubules may be responsible for orchestrating the transmembrane currents responsible for the acid and alkaline banding phenomenon. Analysis of the membrane potential showed a fast depolarization after vinblastine exposure; however, analysis of the current-voltage curve did not show a change in membrane conductance. A 30-min colchicine treatment decreased the conductance of the plasma membrane with either an hyperor a depolarization in the membrane potential. In contrast, although a 9-h exposure to oryzalin caused a major reduction in the extra-cellular current pattern, only minor changes were observed in the membrane potential and conductance. However, in the presence of oryzalin, the time constants in the light response of the membrane potential increased over this 9-h period. Collectively, these results implicate an involvement of microtubules in spatial control of plasma-membrane transport events inC. corallina.

Redistribution of neuronal lysosomes induced by colchicine: an electron microscopic quantitative study

We have previously demonstrated that a single injection of the microtubule poison colchicine, into the lateral cerebral ventricle of the rat, induced a rapid redistribution of the lysosomal marker enzymes, dipeptidylaminopeptidase II (Dpp II) and acid phosphatase, from their normal location in neuronal cell bodies out into the dendrites. In the present study, we have quantitatively analyzed this phenomenon at the electron microscopic level by identifying and counting the number of lysosomes and mitochondria in neuronal cell bodies and dendrites of control and colchicine-treated rats. Areas examined included the anterior dorsal (AD) thalamus, pontine nucleus, and facial nucleus. The results show that the cytoplasm of these neurons contains significantly fewer large lysosomes after treatment with colchicine while the dendrites become abnormally enriched with large and small lysosomes after treatment. Lysosomes were rarely seen in the axons of either control or colchicine-treated animals. A significant increase in the density and the shape of mitochondria was also observed in the dendrites following colchicine treatment. The data presented support the hypothesis that neurons contain a transport system which selectively translocates lysosomes, and possibly other organelles, into dendrites. The size, shape, and number of these organelles may change as a result of this transport.

Analysis and separation of synaptosomal membrane proteins

Synaptosomal membrane proteins solubilized with 8% CHAPS-8 M urea were analyzed with two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE). The membrane proteins were resolved up to 250 spots on a 2DE map, ranging in isoelectric points (pI) from 3.5 to 10.0 and molecular weights (MW) from 10 kDa to 200 kDa. Comparison of the mapped proteins of synaptosomal membranes with those of myelin and mitochondrial membranes revealed that synaptosomal membrane proteins were characteristic in the area of pI from 4.0 to 7.5 and MW from 20 kDa to 130 kDa, and that at least 30 spots were synaptosomal membrane-specific proteins. Most of these 30 proteins have not been previously described, named, and characterized. Serial numbers (from SY1 to SY30) were assigned to the proteins on the map in order to investigate them systematically. A preliminary attempt to separate synaptosomal membrane proteins was carried out using a reversed-phase HPLC system. Several proteins could either be isolated or enriched. SY10 (pI 4.6; MW 56 kDa) was one of these proteins, and was of particular interest for its unusual behavior on the reversed-phase column, and for its binding to an immobilized protein A-gel.

Analysis of tubulin proteins and peptides in neuronal and non-neuronal tissues using immobilized pH gradients

The accurate identification of the individual protein products of multi-gene families is essential to the interpretation of data from a wide range of experimental approaches including molecular biology, protein chemistry, and cell biology. We have adapted immobilized pH gradient isoelectric focusing to provide high resolution of tubulin proteins. Here we use these techniques to investigate the heterogeneity of tubulin in several neuronal and non-neuronal tissues to provide an accurate evaluation of isotubulin composition. Of the ten sources examined, the greatest number of isotubulins was found in whole adult brain. Tubulin isolated from either neonate human or rat brain consists predominantly of the more basic alpha and beta isotubulins found in adult brain. Cerebrum, cerebellum, medulla and caudate nucleus all contain the same large number of isotubulins as in whole brain, but in varying proportions. Liver, kidney and spleen isotubulin populations are all similar to each other and consist of a simpler distribution than any neuronal tissue examined. The majority of the tubulin protein in these non-neuronal tissues is composed of only the most basic alpha tubulins and intermediately-charged beta tubulins. No isotubulins were identified that were unique to these three non-neuronal tissues. Tubulin from neuroblastoma cells has an isotubulin distribution grossly similar to non-neuronal sources but additionally contains two basic beta isotubulins found in adult brain that are absent from non-neuronal tissues.

Differential turnover of tubulin and neurofilament proteins in central nervous system neuron terminals

The transport of tubulin and neurofilament protein subunits from the preterminal axons of guinea pig retinal ganglion cells into their presynaptic terminals in the superior colliculus was examined. Newly synthesized tubulin and neurofilament proteins were radiolabeled with tritiated amino acids in the cell bodies and were allowed to be axonally transported through the optic axons and into the terminals in the superior colliculi. Superior colliculi were harvested at appropriate times, synaptosomes were prepared, and radiolabeled proteins were examined by gel electrophoresis and fluorography. Proteins in the radiolabeled synaptosomes were compared with those in the portion of the optic tract immediately proximal to the superior colliculus. Tubulin subunits entered the terminals by 100 days after intraocular labeling, and at least one isoform of tubulin appeared to persist as long as 400 days. Neurofilament proteins, despite the fact that they are axonally transported and delivered to the terminals in concert with the tubulin subunits, disappear rapidly upon entry into the terminals themselves.

Exchange of guanine nucleotides between tubulin and GTP-binding proteins that regulate adenylate cyclase: cytoskeletal modification of neuronal signal transduction

Tubulin, the primary constituent of microtubules, is a GTP-binding proteins with structural similarities to other GTP-binding proteins. Whereas microtubules have been implicated as modulators of the adenylate cyclase system, the mechanism of this regulation has been elusive. Tubulin, polymerized with the hydrolysis-resistant GTP analog, 5'-guanylylimidodiphosphate [Gpp(NH)p], can promote inhibition of synaptic membrane adenylate cyclase which persists subsequent to washing. Tubulin with Gpp(NH)p bound was slightly less potent than free Gpp(NH)p in the inhibition of adenylate cyclase, but tubulin without nucleotide bound had no effect on the enzyme. A GTP-binding protein from the rod outer segment (transducin), with Gpp(NH)p bound, was also without effect on adenylate cyclase. Tubulin (regardless of the nucleotide bound to it) did not alter the activity of the adenylate cyclase catalytic unit directly. When tubulin was polymerized with the hydrolysis-resistant photoaffinity GTP analog, [32P]P3(4-azidoanilido)-P1-5'-GTP ([32P]AAGTP), and this protein was added to synaptic membranes, AAGTP was transferred from tubulin to the inhibitory GTP-binding protein, Gi. This transfer was blocked by prior incubation of the membranes with Gpp(NH)p or covalent binding of AAGTP to tubulin prior to exposure of that tubulin to membranes. Incubation of membranes with Gpp(NH)p subsequent to incubation with tubulin-AAGTP results in a decrease in AAGTP bound to Gi and a compensatory increase in AAGTP bound to the stimulatory GTP-binding protein, Gs. Likewise, persistent inhibition of adenylate cyclase by tubulin-Gpp(NH)p could be overridden by the inclusion of 100 microM Gpp(NH)p in the assay inhibition. Whereas Gpp(NH)p promotes persistent inhibition of synaptic membrane adenylate cyclase without incubation at elevated temperatures, tubulin [with AAGTP or Gpp(NH)p bound] requires 30 s incubation at 23 degrees C to effect adenylate cyclase inhibition. Photoaffinity experiments yield parallel results. These data are consistent with synaptic membrane tubulin regulating neuronal adenylate cyclase by transferring GTP to Gi and, subsequently, to Gs.

Identification and characterization of the major proteins of mammalian brain synaptic vesicles

Highly purified rat and cow brain synaptic vesicles contain major proteins with molecular weights of approximately 74,000, 60,000, 57,000, 40,000, 38,000, and 34,000 by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The presence of the major proteins on synaptic vesicles was confirmed by immunoprecipitation of intact rat brain synaptic vesicles with a synaptic vesicle-specific monoclonal antibody. The 40,000-Mr protein appeared to be identical to the 38,000-Mr integral membrane glycoprotein, p38 or synaptophysin, previously identified as a major component of mammalian synaptic vesicles. The isoelectric point of the 75,000-Mr proteins from either rat or cow brain synaptic vesicles is 5.0, and the pI of the 57,000-Mr protein is approximately 5.1 in both species. The similarity in size and charge of several major proteins in rat and cow synaptic vesicles suggests a high degree of structure conservation of these proteins in diverse mammalian species and raises the possibility that a set of functions common to most or all mammalian synaptic vesicles is mediated by these proteins.

Interaction of Chlamydomonas dynein with tubulin

Studies were conducted to determine if dynein could bind to unpolymerized tubulin. Tubulin alone normally fractionated in the included volume of a molecular sieve Bio-Gel A-1.5m column. Incubated together, tubulin and dynein coeluted in the void volumn, suggesting that a complex had formed between the two. In addition, immunoelectron microscopy revealed preassembled microtubules were labeled with biotin antibody only when incubated in both dynein and biotinylated tubulin, evidence that dynein with bound biotinylated tubulin had decorated the microtubules. A fraction of the tubulin could be dissociated from dynein by addition of ATP and vanadate, as assayed by molecular sieve chromatography followed by densitometry of gels, suggesting that some tubulin bound to the B end of the dynein arm. Additional tubulin dissociated from the dynein under conditions of high salt. These studies, together with those indicating that tubulin blocked the A end of the dynein arm from binding to microtubules and promoted the interaction of two arms at their A ends, provide evidence that the A end of the arm also can bind tubulin. Thus, the tubulin subunits, themselves, on a microtubule rather than a particular surface lattice structure formed by adjacent protofilaments may provide the binding sites for both ends of the dynein arm.

The characterization of phospholipids associated with microtubules, purified tubulin and microtubule associated proteins in vitro

1. Significant levels of total phospholipid phosphate were detected in highly purified microtubule protein preparations. 2. While the phospholipid profiles of total microtubule proteins and microtubule-associated proteins showed both similarities and differences to that of a whole brain homogenate, purified tubulin was associated only with phospholipids that were not detectable in the latter. 3. Phosphatidyl ethanolamine, found exclusively in a fraction of microtubule associated proteins, stimulated microtubule assembly in vitro.

The synaptic vesicle and the cytoskeleton

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The high-molecular-weight proteins of bovine brain plain synaptic vesicles

High molecular mass polypeptides (Mr greater than 100,000) of plain synaptic vesicles from bovine cerebral cortex were separated using porous polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. Four major bands, of Mr 262,000, 249,000, 216,000, and 173,000, were resolved. Investigations into the membrane association of the Mr 216,000 and 173,000 proteins by means of solubilization experiments and Sepharose 4B chromatography indicate that the former is a peripheral protein and the latter is more firmly attached, possibly an integral protein. Finally, the Mr 216,000 protein was shown to be highly enriched in synaptic vesicles compared to other brain subfractions. It thus appears to be specifically associated with synaptic vesicles and therefore may have an important role specific to synaptic vesicle function or structure.

Compartmentalization of calmodulin and tubulin in the male C57BL/6J mouse brain: heterogeneity of age changes in calmodulin compartments

Calmodulin (CaM) and tubulin were analyzed by radioimmunoassay in subcellular fractions prepared from cerebral cortex and striatum of aging male C57BL/6J mice. Three fractions were prepared by a new procedure: cytosol (soluble); EGTA-releasable, membrane-bound; and detergent-extractable (Triton X-100), membrane-bound fractions. CaM concentration in all three fractions prepared from striatum showed small (10-15%, p less than 0.05) decreases with age (3-31 months). Cortical CaM concentrations were less affected by age, and only the EGTA-releasable fraction decreased. To compare functional activity and immunoreactivity of CaM, soluble CaM was also assayed by the activation of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE). The radioimmunoassay and PDE activation assays gave equivalent results, suggesting that no alteration occurred with age in biological activity of CaM, via post-translational modification or other mechanisms. Soluble and particulate tubulin concentration did not change significantly with age in either brain region. The changes observed in striatal CaM, particularly in membrane-bound compartments, could contribute to the age-related decline in mammalian basal ganglial function.

Regulation of neuronal adenylate cyclase

It appears that several components function in a spirit of integrated cooperation toward the intracellular regulation of neurotransmitter responsiveness. We have demonstrated that cytoskeletal proteins might interact with GNs and that GNs and GNi might interact with one another. At this juncture, it appears that both of these phenomena might occur only in cells of neural origin. Calmodulin and antidepressants may also affect adenylate cyclase in nervous tissue alone. The effects of AAGTP are different in nervous tissue from other tissues, and experiments with that nucleotide have led to the discovery of a new, 32 kDa GTP-binding protein which appears only in neural crest cells. Appreciation of the intricacies of signal transduction through the adenylate cyclase system are developing along with our understanding of that system. When combined with the complexity of neurotransmitter responsiveness, comprehension of the combined systems remains in its infancy, destined to grow as well as to surprise and delight all who are interested.

Interaction of tubulin with octyl glucoside and deoxycholate. 1. Binding and hydrodynamic studies

Tubulin purified from calf brain cytoplasm, normally a compact water-soluble dimer, is able to interact with the mild detergents octyl glucoside (a minimum of 60 detergent molecules) and deoxycholate (95 +/- 8 molecules). Binding is cooperative and approaches saturation below the critical micelle concentration of the amphiphiles. Binding is accompanied by a quenching of the intrinsic protein fluorescence, but no spectral shape changes indicating denaturation such as in the case of sodium dodecyl sulfate are observed. Glycerol, which is known to be preferentially excluded from the tubulin domain and to favor the folded and associated forms of this protein, inhibits the binding of the mild detergents. Octyl glucoside induces a rapidly equilibrating tubulin self-association reaction characterized by a bimodal sedimentation velocity profile with boundaries at approximately 5 and 12 S. Full dissociation of this detergent restores the normal sedimentation behavior to 90% of the protein. Binding of deoxycholate slows the sedimentation velocity of tubulin from s(0)20,w = 5.6 +/- 0.2 S to s(0)20,w = 4.8 +/- 0.3 S. Measurements of the molecular weight of the tubulin-deoxycholate complex indicate an increase from 100,000 to 143,000 +/- 5,000. The diffusion rate consistently decreases from (5.3 +/- 0.5) X 10(-7) to (3.8 +/- 0.2) X 10(-7) cm2 S-1. This is most simply interpreted as an expansion of the undissociated tubulin dimer upon detergent binding (a change in the frictional ratio, f/f min, from 1.35 to 1.86). It is concluded that tubulin shows a reversible transition between the water-soluble state and amphipathic detergent-bound forms which constitute a model system of tubulin-membrane interactions.

Microtubule stability along mammalian peripheral nerves

Microtubule (MT) number, axonal area, and MT density were examined in unmyelinated axons of rat cervical vagus nerve. Study of nerve regions proximal (1-5 mm) and distal (35-40 mm) to the nodosum ganglion in controls (incubation at 37 degrees C for 1 h) showed that the number of MT per axon is significantly less in distal than in proximal nerve regions. Cooling (incubation at 0 degree C for 1 h) caused a significant reduction in the number of MT per axon in both nerve regions. The unmyelinated axons from both nerve regions showed a comparable reduction in MT number by cooling, indicating that axonal MT stability to cold was not significantly different between these two nerve regions. In these nerves no detectable changes were found in cross-axonal area of unmyelinated axons between distal and proximal nerve regions. In another experimental series, in distal nerve regions (35-40 mm from the nodosum ganglion) the number of MT was not further reduced in nerves incubated at 0 degree C by increasing the incubation time. Similar results were obtained from colchicine treated nerves (incubation at 37 degrees C, with 10 mM colchicine for 1 and 2 h). Distal nerve regions (35-40 mm from the nodosum ganglion) showed a similar reduction in the number of MT per axon when nerves were incubated at 0 degree C or with colchicine, suggesting that this drug, as well as cold, may be affecting a similar population of axonal MT, i.e., MT susceptible to anti-MT agents. These results indicate that approximately one-half of the axonal MT are stable to cold as well as to colchicine in rat unmyelinated axons.

Identification of a synaptic vesicle-specific 38,000-dalton protein by monoclonal antibodies

Synaptic vesicles were purified from the guinea pig cerebrum by sucrose density gradient centrifugation, and monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) were produced against this vesicle fraction. Seven MAbs (171B5, 171E8, 174D12, 174H11, 177A2, 177H11 and 178D4) recognized a novel acidic protein of about 38,000 daltons which was specific to synaptic vesicles. In immunofluorescence microscopy, the staining pattern of these MAbs corresponded to the distribution of the synapses in the guinea pig central nervous system. These MAbs appeared to stain all synaptic regions, irrespective of their synaptic function or type of neurotransmitters. MAb 171B5 and 174H11 stained the rat, rabbit and bovine synapses similarly to the guinea pig. Two other MAbs (171E8 and 177H11) stained other mammals weakly but the remaining 3 MAbs reacted only with the guinea pig. In immunoelectron microscopy of both the cerebellar tissue and isolated vesicle fraction, these MAbs selectively labeled the synaptic vesicles but not other structures. Immunoblot analysis was performed on electrophoretically separated proteins in vesicle fraction and brain homogenate. All of 7 MAbs reacted with a band at a molecular weight of about 38,000 from the guinea pig. Isoelectric focussing disclosed that this protein was acidic (pI 4.5-5).

In vitro studies of the biosynthesis of brain tubulin on membranes

Membrane elements in brain tissue contain relatively large amounts of alpha- and beta-tubulin (FIGURES 2 and 3). We have investigated the subcellular sites of tubulin biosynthesis in order to determine the origin of this membrane-associated tubulin. Free and membrane-bound polysomes from rat forebrain were separated by differential centrifugation, and the products of translation from these polysome populations were analyzed by 2DGE (FIGURES 4 and 6). Alpha- and beta-tubulin subunits were synthesized by the free polysome population (FIGURES 4 and 5A and B). The membrane-bound polysome fraction synthesized a protein with similar (but not identical) characteristics to alpha-tubulin (denoted as "MB" in FIGURE 6), including isoelectric point, molecular weight, peptide map, and copurification with microtubules after aggregation-disaggregation. Tubulin subunits synthesized in vitro by free polysomes could associate posttranslationally with a microsome fraction (FIGURE 7A). The association of the tubulin translation products with membranes was not disrupted by high salt; the associated tubulin, however, was susceptible to proteolytic digestion, with the exception of one of the beta-tubulin subunits (FIGURE 7B). There was an identical protease-resistant beta-tubulin subunit among the native proteins of the smooth microsome fractions. Our data is consistent with the conclusion that at least one beta subunit of membrane-associated tubulin is synthesized by free polysomes and becomes posttranslationally added to membrane structures. It is unlikely that a cotranslational mechanism is responsible, in which there is a signal-mediated insertion of a growing polypeptide chain to membrane. Our results, however, are consistent with a "membrane trigger" mechanism proposed by Wickner in which the membrane lipid bilayer triggers the folding of a polypeptide into a configuration that allows integral membrane insertion. The association of tubulin with membranes may also be secondary to the interaction of hydrophobic elements. The amino acid sequence of beta tubulin is known to contain several hydrophobic domains. Tubulin can be incorporated into phospholipid vesicles and various subcellular membrane elements. In our studies, in vitro synthesized tubulin from free polysome was found to be purified by hydrophobic affinity chromatography with ethane-sepharose (FIGURE 8). Thus, the hydrophobic characteristics of newly synthesized tubulin could be partially responsible for the posttranslational association of tubulin subunit with membranes. Native tubulin in a soluble fraction of CNS tissue was not purified by hydrophobic affinity chromatography.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Electron-microscopic demonstration of alpha-tubulin immunoreactivity in astroglia

Vibratome sections of the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum were immunostained for alpha-tubulin using the TU-Ol monoclonal antibody. In all three regions, electron microscopy of the immunostained preparations revealed--in addition to the previously described reaction of pyramidal apical dendritic microtubules--consistent staining of the ribosomal apparatus of astrocytes.