p300 family members associate with the carboxyl terminus of simian virus 40 large tumor antigen

Merkel cell polyomavirus small T antigen is a viral transcription activator that is essential for viral genome maintenance

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) is a small DNA tumor virus that persists in human skin and causes Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) in immunocompromised individuals. The multi-functional protein MCV small T (sT) activates viral DNA replication by stabilizing large T (LT) and promotes cell transformation through the LT stabilization domain (LTSD). Using MCVΔsT, a mutant MCV clone that ablates sT, we investigated the role of sT in MCV genome maintenance. sT was dispensable for initiation of viral DNA replication, but essential for maintenance of the MCV genome and activation of viral early and late gene expression for progression of the viral lifecycle. Furthermore, in phenotype rescue studies, exogenous sT activated viral DNA replication and mRNA expression in MCVΔsT through the LTSD. While exogenous LT expression, which mimics LT stabilization, increased viral DNA replication, it did not activate viral mRNA expression. After cataloging transcriptional regulator proteins by proximity-based MCV sT-host protein interaction analysis, we validated LTSD-dependent sT interaction with four transcriptional regulators: Cux1, c-Jun, BRD9, and CBP. Functional studies revealed Cux1 and c-Jun as negative regulators, and CBP and BRD9 as positive regulators of MCV transcription. CBP inhibitor A-485 suppressed sT-induced viral gene activation in replicating MCVΔsT and inhibited early gene expression in MCV-integrated MCC cells. These results suggest that sT promotes viral lifecycle progression by activating mRNA expression and capsid protein production through interaction with the transcriptional regulators. This activity is essential for MCV genome maintenance, suggesting a critical role of sT in MCV persistence and MCC carcinogenesis.

Getting down to the core of histone modifications

The identification of an increasing number of posttranslationally modified residues within histone core domains is furthering our understanding of how nucleosome dynamics are regulated. In this review, we first discuss how the targeting of specific histone H3 core residues can directly influence the nucleosome structure and then apply this knowledge to provide functional reasoning for their localization to distinct genomic regions. While we focus mainly on transcriptional implications, the principles discussed in this review can also be applied to their roles in other cellular processes. Finally, we highlight some examples of how aberrant modifications of core histone residues can facilitate the pathogenesis of some diseases.

Two independent regions of simian virus 40 T antigen increase CBP/p300 levels, alter patterns of cellular histone acetylation, and immortalize primary cells

Simian virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen (SVT) interferes with normal cell regulation and thus has been used to identify cellular components controlling proliferation and homeostasis. We have previously shown that SVT-mediated transformation requires interaction with the histone acetyltransferases (HATs) CBP/p300 and now report that the ectopic expression of SVT in several cell types in vivo and in vitro results in a significant increase in the steady-state levels of CBP/p300. Furthermore, SVT-expressing cells contain higher levels of acetylated CBP/p300, a modification that has been linked to increased HAT activity. Concomitantly, the acetylation levels of histone residues H3K56 and H4K12 are markedly increased in SVT-expressing cells. Other polyomavirus-encoded large T antigens also increase the levels of CBP/p300 and sustain a rise in the acetylation levels of H3K56 and H4K12. SVT does not affect the transcription of CBP/p300, but rather, alters their overall levels through increasing the loading of CBP/p300 mRNAs onto polysomes. Two distinct regions within SVT, one located in the amino terminus and one in the carboxy terminus, can independently alter both the levels of CBP/p300 and the loading of CBP/p300 transcripts onto polysomes. Within the amino-terminal fragment, a functional J domain is necessary for increasing CBP/p300 and specific histone acetylation levels, as well as for immortalizing primary cells. These studies uncover the action of polyomavirus T antigens on cellular CBP/p300 and suggest that additional mechanisms are used by T antigens to induce cell immortalization and transformation.

Regulation of nucleocytoplasmic trafficking of viral proteins: an integral role in pathogenesis?

Signal-dependent targeting of proteins into and out of the nucleus is mediated by members of the importin (IMP) family of transport receptors, which recognise targeting signals within a cargo protein and mediate passage through the nuclear envelope-embedded nuclear pore complexes. Regulation of this process is paramount to processes such as cell division and differentiation, but is also critically important for viral replication and pathogenesis; phosphorylation appears to play a major role in regulating viral protein nucleocytoplasmic trafficking, along with other posttranslational modifications. This review focuses on viral proteins that utilise the host cell IMP machinery in order to traffic into/out of the nucleus, and in particular those where trafficking is critical to viral replication and/or pathogenesis, such as simian virus SV40 large tumour antigen (T-ag), human papilloma virus E1 protein, human cytomegalovirus processivity factor ppUL44, and various gene products from RNA viruses such as Rabies. Understanding of the mechanisms regulating viral protein nucleocytoplasmic trafficking is paramount to the future development of urgently needed specific and effective anti-viral therapeutics. This article was originally intended for the special issue "Regulation of Signaling and Cellular Fate through Modulation of Nuclear Protein Import". The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience caused.

Update on human polyomaviruses and cancer

Over 50 years of polyomavirus research has produced a wealth of insights into not only general biologic processes in mammalian cells, but also, how conditions can be altered and signaling systems tweaked to produce transformation phenotypes. In the past few years three new members (KIV, WUV, and MCV) have joined two previously known (JCV and BKV) human polyomaviruses. In this review, we present updated information on general virologic features of these polyomaviruses in their natural host, concentrating on the association of MCV with human Merkel cell carcinoma. We further present a discussion on advances made in SV40 as the prototypic model, which has and will continue to inform our understanding about viruses and cancer.

Genome-wide siRNA screen identifies SMCX, EP400, and Brd4 as E2-dependent regulators of human papillomavirus oncogene expression

An essential step in the pathogenesis of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cancers is the dysregulated expression of the viral oncogenes. The papillomavirus E2 protein can silence the long control region (LCR) promoter that controls viral E6 and E7 oncogene expression. The mechanisms by which E2 represses oncogene expression and the cellular factors through which E2 mediates this silencing are largely unknown. We conducted an unbiased, genome-wide siRNA screen and series of secondary screens that identified 96 cellular genes that contribute to the repression of the HPV LCR. In addition to confirming a role for the E2-binding bromodomain protein Brd4 in E2-mediated silencing, we identified a number of genes that have not previously been implicated in E2 repression, including the demethylase JARID1C/SMCX as well as EP400, a component of the NuA4/TIP60 histone acetyltransferase complex. Each of these genes contributes independently and additively to E2-mediated silencing, indicating that E2 functions through several distinct cellular complexes to repress E6 and E7 expression.

T antigen transgenic mouse models

The study of polyomavirus has benefited immensely from two scientific methodologies, cell culture and in vitro studies on one side and the use of transgenic mice as experimental models on the other. Both approaches allowed us to identify cellular products targeted by the viruses, the consequences of these interactions at the phenotypic and molecular level, and thus the potential roles of the targets within their normal cellular context. In particular, cell culture and in vitro reports suggest a model explaining partially how SV40 large T antigen contributes to oncogenic transformation. In most cases, T antigen induces cell cycle entry by inactivation of the Rb proteins (pRb, p130, and p107), thus activating E2F-dependent transcription and subsequent S-phase entry. Simultaneously, T antigen blocks p53 activity and therefore prevents the ensuing cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis. For the most part, studies of T antigen expression in transgenic mice support this model, but the use of T antigen mutants and their expression in different tissue and cell type settings have expanded our knowledge of the model system and raised important questions regarding tumorigenic mechanisms functioning in vivo.

Cell-type specific regulation of gene expression by simian virus 40 T antigens

SV40 transforms cells through the action of two oncoproteins, large T antigen and small t antigen. Small t antigen targets phosphatase PP2A, while large T antigen stimulates cell proliferation and survival by action on multiple proteins, including the tumor suppressors Rb and p53. Large T antigen also binds components of the transcription initiation complex and several transcription factors. We examined global gene expression in SV40-transformed mouse embryo fibroblasts, and in enterocytes obtained from transgenic mice. SV40 transformation alters the expression of approximately 800 cellular genes in both systems. Much of this regulation is observed in both MEFs and enterocytes and is consistent with T antigen action on the Rb-E2F pathway. However, the regulation of many genes is cell-type specific, suggesting that unique signaling pathways are activated in different cell types upon transformation, and that the consequences of SV40 transformation depends on the type of cell targeted.

How the Rb tumor suppressor structure and function was revealed by the study of Adenovirus and SV40

The review recounts the history of how the study of the DNA tumor viruses including polyoma, SV40 and Adenovirus brought key insights into the structure and function of the Retinoblastoma protein (Rb). Knudsen's model of the two-hit hypothesis to explain patterns of hereditary and sporadic retinoblastoma provided the foundation for the tumor suppressor hypothesis that ultimately led to the cloning of the Rb gene. The discovery that SV40 and Adenovirus could cause tumors when inoculated into animals was startling not only because SV40 had contaminated the poliovirus vaccine and Adenovirus was a common cause of viral induced pneumonia but also because they provided an opportunity to study the genetics and biochemistry of cancer. Studies of mutant forms of these viruses led to the identification of the E1A and Large T antigen (LT) oncogenes and their small transforming elements including the Adenovirus Conserved Regions (CR), the SV40 J domain and the LxCxE motif. The immunoprecipitation studies that initially revealed the size and ultimately the identity of cellular proteins that could bind to these transforming elements were enabled by the widespread development of highly specific monoclonal antibodies against E1A and LT. The identification of Rb as an E1A and LT interacting protein quickly led to the cloning of p107, p130, p300, CBP, p400 and TRRAP and the concept that viral transformation was due, at least in part, to the perturbation of the function of normal cellular proteins. In addition, studies on the ability of E1A to transactivate the Adenovirus E2 promoter led to the cloning of the heterodimeric E2F and DP transcription factor and recognition that Rb repressed transcription of cellular genes required for cell cycle entry and progression. More recent studies have revealed how E1A and LT combine the activity of Rb and the other cellular associated proteins to perturb expression of many genes during viral infection and tumor formation.

SV40: Cell transformation and tumorigenesis

The story of SV40-induced tumorigenesis and cellular transformation is intimately entwined with the development of modern molecular biology. Because SV40 and other viruses have small genomes and are relatively easy to manipulate in the laboratory, they offered tractable systems for molecular analysis. Thus, many of the early efforts to understand how eukaryotes replicate their DNA, regulate expression of their genes, and translate mRNA were focused on viral systems. The discovery that SV40 induces tumors in certain laboratory animals and transforms many types of cultured cells offered the first opportunity to explore the molecular basis for cancer. The goal of this article is to highlight some of the experiments that have led to our current view of SV40-induced transformation and to provide some context as to how they contributed to basic research in molecular biology and to our understanding of cancer.

Phosphorylation and stabilization of TAp63gamma by IkappaB kinase-beta

Post-translational modification of the p53 family members is key to their regulation. Here we report the phosphorylation of TAp63gamma, but not DeltaNp63gamma, by IkappaB kinase beta (IKKbeta). Activation of IKKbeta by gamma radiation or tumor necrosis factor-alpha led to increased TAp63gamma protein levels in cells. IKKbeta, but not its kinase-defective mutant IKKbeta-K44A, led to this observed stabilization of TAp63gamma. This stabilization of TAp63gamma in response to gamma radiation was significantly decreased in the absence of IKKbeta. Phosphorylation of TAp63gamma blocks ubiquitylation and possible degradation of this protein. We postulate that phosphorylation of TAp63gamma by IKKbeta stabilizes the TAp63gamma protein by blocking ubiquitylation-dependent degradation of this protein.

Involvement of chromatin and histone deacetylation in SV40 T antigen transcription regulation

Simian Virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen (T Ag) is a multifunctional viral oncoprotein that regulates viral and cellular transcriptional activity. However, the mechanisms by which such regulation occurs remain unclear. Here we show that T antigen represses CBP-mediated transcriptional activity. This repression is concomitant with histone H3 deacetylation and is TSA sensitive. Moreover, our results demonstrate that T antigen interacts with HDAC1 in vitro in an Rb-independent manner. In addition, the overexpression of HDAC1 cooperates with T antigen to antagonize CBP transactivation function and correlates with chromatin deacetylation of the TK promoter. Finally, decreasing HDAC1 levels with small interfering RNA (siRNA) partially abolishes T antigen-induced repression. These findings highlight the importance of the histone acetylation/deacetylation balance in the cellular transformation mediated by oncoviral proteins.

Regulation of SV40 large T-antigen stability by reversible acetylation

Reversible acetylation on protein lysine residues has been shown to regulate the function of both nuclear proteins such as histones and p53 and cytoplasmic proteins such as alpha-tubulin. To identify novel acetylated proteins, we purified several proteins by the affinity to an anti-acetylated-lysine antibody from cells treated with trichostatin A (TSA). Among the proteins identified, here we report acetylation of the SV40 large T antigen (T-Ag). The acetylation site was determined to be lysine-697, which is located adjacent to the C-terminal Cdc4 phospho-degron (CPD). Overexpression of the CBP acetyltransferase acetylated T-Ag, whereas HDAC1, HDAC3 and SIRT1 bound and deacetylated T-Ag. The acetylation and deacetylation occurred independently of p53, a binding partner of T-Ag, but the acetylation was enhanced in the presence of p53. T-Ag in the cells treated with TSA and NA or the acetylation mimic mutant (K697Q) became unstable in COS-7 cells, suggesting that acetylation regulates stability of T-Ag. Indeed, NIH3T3 cells stably expressing K697Q showed decreased anchorage-independent growth compared with those expressing wild type or the K697R mutant. These results demonstrate that acetylation destabilizes T-Ag and regulates the transforming activity of T-Ag in NIH3T3 cells.

Targeting of p300/CREB binding protein coactivators by simian virus 40 is mediated through p53

The primary transforming functions of simian virus 40 large T antigen (SV40 LT) are conferred primarily through the binding and inactivation of p53 and the retinoblastoma family members. Normal p53 function requires an association with the CREB binding protein (CBP)/p300 coactivators, and a ternary complex containing SV40 LT, p53, and CBP/p300 has been identified previously. In this report, we have evaluated a secondary function of p53 bound to the SV40 LT complex in mediating the binding of human CBP/p300. We demonstrate that p53 associated with SV40 LT was posttranslationally modified in a manner consistent with the binding of CBP/p300. Furthermore, expression of SV40 LT induced the proportion of p53 phosphorylated on S15. An essential function for p53 in bridging the interaction between SV40 LT and CBP/p300 was identified through the reconstitution of the SV40 LT-CBP/p300 complex upon p53 reexpression in p53-null cells. In addition, the SV40 LT-CBP/p300 complex was disrupted through RNA interference-mediated depletion of endogenous p53. We also demonstrate that SV40 LT was acetylated in a p300- and p53-dependent manner, at least in part through the CH3 domain of p300. Therefore, the binding of p53 serves to modify SV40 LT by targeting CBP and p300 binding to direct the acetylation of SV40 LT.

Molecular biology of malignant mesothelioma: a review

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an uncommon tumor with high mortality and morbidity rates. It arises from mesothelial cells that line the pleural, pericardial, peritoneal, and testicular cavities. This is a disease with an indolent course because tumors arise 20 to 40 years after exposure to an inciting agent. Extensive research has shown that mesothelial cells are transformed into MM cells through various chromosomal and cellular pathway defects. These changes alter the normal cells' ability to survive, proliferate, and metastasize. This article discusses the alterations that occur in transforming normal mesothelial cells into MM. It also details some of the signal transduction pathways that seem to be important in MM with the potential for novel targeted therapeutics.

SV40 large T antigen targets multiple cellular pathways to elicit cellular transformation

DNA tumor viruses such as simian virus 40 (SV40) express dominant acting oncoproteins that exert their effects by associating with key cellular targets and altering the signaling pathways they govern. Thus, tumor viruses have proved to be invaluable aids in identifying proteins that participate in tumorigenesis, and in understanding the molecular basis for the transformed phenotype. The roles played by the SV40-encoded 708 amino-acid large T antigen (T antigen), and 174 amino acid small T antigen (t antigen), in transformation have been examined extensively. These studies have firmly established that large T antigen's inhibition of the p53 and Rb-family of tumor suppressors and small T antigen's action on the pp2A phosphatase, are important for SV40-induced transformation. It is not yet clear if the Rb, p53 and pp2A proteins are the only targets through which SV40 transforms cells, or whether additional targets await discovery. Finally, expression of SV40 oncoproteins in transgenic mice results in effects ranging from hyperplasia to invasive carcinoma accompanied by metastasis, depending on the tissue in which they are expressed. Thus, the consequences of SV40 action on these targets depend on the cell type being studied. The identification of additional cellular targets important for transformation, and understanding the molecular basis for the cell type-specific action of the viral T antigens are two important areas through which SV40 will continue to contribute to our understanding of cancer.

Expression of JC virus regulatory proteins in human cancer: potential mechanisms for tumourigenesis

JC virus (JCV) is a human polyomavirus that is the etiologic agent of the fatal demyelinating disease of the central nervous system known as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). JCV is also linked to some tumours of the brain and other organs as evidenced by the presence of JCV DNA sequences and the expression of viral proteins in clinical samples. Since JCV is highly oncogenic in experimental animals and transforms cells in culture, it is possible that JCV contributes to the malignant phenotype of human tumours with which it is associated. JCV encodes three non-capsid regulatory proteins: large T-antigen, small t-antigen and agnoprotein that interact with a number of cellular target proteins and interfere with certain normal cellular functions. In this review, we discuss how JCV proteins deregulate signalling pathways especially ones pertaining to transcriptional regulation and cell cycle control. These effects may be involved in the progression of JCV-associated tumours and may represent potential therapeutic targets.

p400 Is Required for E1A to Promote Apoptosis

The adenovirus E1A oncoprotein promotes proliferation and transformation by binding cellular proteins, including members of the retinoblastoma protein family, the p300/CREB-binding protein transcriptional coactivators, and the p400-TRRAP chromatin-remodeling complex. E1A also promotes apoptosis, in part, by engaging the ARF-p53 tumor suppressor pathway. We show that E1A induces ARF and p53 and promotes apoptosis in normal fibroblasts by physically associating with the retinoblastoma protein and a p400-TRRAP complex and that its interaction with p300 is largely dispensable for these effects. We further show that E1A increases p400 expression and, conversely, that suppression of p400 using stable RNA interference reduces the levels of ARF, p53, and apoptosis in E1A-expressing cells. Therefore, whereas E1A inactivates the retinoblastoma protein, it requires p400 to efficiently promote cell death. These results identify p400 as a regulator of the ARF-p53 pathway and a component of the cellular machinery that couples proliferation to cell death.

The p400 E1A-associated protein is a novel component of the p53 --> p21 senescence pathway

Adenovirus E1A-associated p400 belongs to the SWI2/SNF2 family of chromatin remodeling proteins. Here, we report that p400 is a component of the p53-p21(WAF1/CIP1/sid1) pathway, regulating the p21 transcription and senescence induction program. Acute depletion of p400 expression by shRNA (short hairpin RNA) synthesis led to premature senescence of untransformed human fibroblasts, whose features include G1 arrest, p21 induction, senescence-associated heterochromatic foci (SAHF), and beta-gal staining. Importantly, p400shRNA-induced premature senescence phenotypes were rescued by coexpression of p53-shRNA or p21-shRNA. Furthermore, p400 complex colocalized with p53 on the p21 promoter. These data suggest that the p400 complex inhibits p53 --> p21 transcription and the development of premature senescence.

p53 targets simian virus 40 large T antigen for acetylation by CBP

Simian virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen (T Ag) interacts with the tumor suppressor p53 and the transcriptional coactivators CBP and p300. Binding of these cellular proteins in a ternary complex has been implicated in T Ag-mediated transformation. It has been suggested that the ability of CBP/p300 to modulate p53 function underlies p53's regulation of cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. In this study, we provide further evidence that CBP activity may be mediated through its synergistic action with p53. We demonstrate that SV40 T Ag is acetylated in vivo in a p53-dependent manner and T Ag acetylation is largely mediated by CBP. The acetylation of T Ag is dependent on its interaction with p53 and on p53's interaction with CBP. We have mapped the site of acetylation on T Ag to the C-terminal lysine residue 697. This acetylation site is conserved between the T antigens of the human polyomaviruses JC and BK, which are also known to interact with p53. We show that both JC and BK T antigens are also acetylated at corresponding sites in vivo. While other proteins are known to be acetylated by CBP/p300, none are known to depend on p53 for acetylation. T Ag acetylation may provide a regulatory mechanism for T Ag binding to a cellular factor or play a role in another aspect of T Ag function.

Inhibition of Lens Fiber Cell Morphogenesis by Expression of a Mutant SV40 Large T Antigen That Binds CREB-binding Protein/p300 but Not pRb

Simian virus (SV) 40 large T antigen can both induce tumors and inhibit cellular differentiation. It is not clear whether these cellular changes are synonymous, sequential, or distinct responses to the protein. T antigen is known to bind to p53, to the retinoblastoma (Rb) family of tumor suppressor proteins, and to other cellular proteins such as p300 family members. To test whether SV40 large T antigen inhibits cellular differentiation in vivo in the absence of cell cycle induction, we generated transgenic mice that express in the lens a mutant version of the early region of SV40. This mutant, which we term E107KDelta, has a deletion that eliminates synthesis of small t antigen and a point mutation (E107K) that results in loss of the ability to bind to Rb family members. At embryonic day 15.5 (E15.5), the transgenic lenses show dramatic defects in lens fiber cell differentiation. The fiber cells become post-mitotic, but do not elongate properly. The cells show a dramatic reduction in expression of their beta- and gamma-crystallins. Because CBP and p300 are co-activators for crystallin gene expression, we assayed for interactions between E107KDelta and CBP/p300. Our studies demonstrate that cellular differentiation can be inhibited by SV40 large T antigen in the absence of pRb inactivation, and that interaction of large T antigen with CBP/p300 may be enhanced by a mutation that eliminates the binding to pRb.

Structure of the mitochondrial ATP synthase by electron cryomicroscopy

We have determined the structure of intact ATP synthase from bovine heart mitochondria by electron cryomicroscopy of single particles. Docking of an atomic model of the F1-c10 subcomplex into a major segment of the map has allowed the 32 A resolution density to be interpreted as the F1-ATPase, a central and a peripheral stalk and an FO membrane region that is composed of two domains. One domain of FO corresponds to the ring of c-subunits, and the other probably contains the a-subunit, the transmembrane portion of the b-subunit and the remaining integral membrane proteins of FO. The peripheral stalk wraps around the molecule and connects the apex of F1 to the second domain of FO. The interaction of the peripheral stalk with F1-c10 implies that it binds to a non-catalytic alpha-beta interface in F1 and its inclination where it is not attached to F1 suggests that it has a flexible region that can serve as a stator during both ATP synthesis and ATP hydrolysis.

The SV40 T antigen modulates CBP histone acetyltransferase activity

Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) play a key role in transcription control, cell proliferation and differentiation by modulating chromatin structure; however, little is known about their own regulation. Here we show that expression of the viral oncoprotein SV40 T antigen increases histone acetylation and global cellular HAT activities. In addition, it enhances CREB-binding protein HAT activity and modulates its transcriptional activity. Finally, we show that inhibition of cellular histone deacetylases by trichostatin A increases the SV40 infectivity rate. These findings highlight the importance of histone acetylation in the regulation of the cell cycle by oncoviral proteins.

Dissecting the contribution of p16(INK4A) and the Rb family to the Ras transformed phenotype

Although oncogenic Ras commonly contributes to the development of cancer, in normal primary cells it induces cell cycle arrest rather than transformation. Here we analyze the additional genetic changes required for Ras to promote cell cycle progression rather than arrest. We show that loss of p53 is sufficient for oncogenic Ras to stimulate proliferation in the absence of extrinsic mitogens in attached cells. However, surprisingly, we find that p53 loss is not sufficient for Ras to overcome anchorage dependence or contact inhibition. In contrast, expression of simian virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen (LT) allows Ras to overcome these additional cell cycle controls. Mutational analysis of SV40 LT shows that this action of SV40 LT depends on its ability to inactivate the retinoblastoma (Rb) family of proteins, in concert with the loss of p53. Importantly, we show that inactivation of the Rb family of proteins can be mimicked by loss of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p16(INK4A). p16(INK4A) is commonly lost in human tumors, but its contribution to the transformed phenotype is unknown. We demonstrate here a role for p16(INK4A) in the loss of cell cycle controls required for tumorigenesis and show how accumulating genetic changes cooperate and contribute to the transformed phenotype.

Simian virus 40 large T antigen and two independent T-antigen segments sensitize cells to apoptosis following genotoxic damage

The simian virus 40 (SV40) large tumor (T) antigen is sufficient to transform cells in cultures and induce tumors in experimental animals. Transformation of primary cells in cultures requires both overcoming growth arrest by stimulating the cell cycle and blocking cell death activities presumably activated by oncogene-mediated hyperproliferation signals. The study presented here examined the ability of specific regions and activities of T antigen to modulate apoptosis in cells treated with the genotoxic agent 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). The results showed that the expression of full-length T antigen rendered rat embryo fibroblasts (REF) sensitive to 5-FU-induced apoptosis. Thus, neither the p53-binding region nor the Bcl-2 homology region of T antigen was sufficient to prevent cell death induced by the DNA-damaging agent. T-antigen-mediated sensitization occurred independently of retinoblastoma protein or p53 and p300 binding. An N-terminal segment containing the first 127 T-antigen amino acids (T1-127) was sufficient to sensitize cells. A C-terminal segment consisting of T-antigen amino acids 251 to 708 (T251-708) also sensitized cells to 5-FU-induced apoptosis. This sensitization did not occur when T251-708 was targeted to the nucleus by inclusion of the SV40 nuclear localization signal. The introduction of mutations into the T-antigen J domain resulted in mutation-specific and variable inhibition of apoptosis. This result suggested that either the structural or the functional integrity of the J domain is required to sensitize cells to apoptosis. Treatment of REF or REF expressing full-length T antigen, an N-terminal segment, or T251-708 resulted in increased expression of the p53-responsive MDM2 gene; apoptosis occurred through a p53-dependent pathway, as p53-null cells expressing these T antigens were resistant to 5-FU-induced apoptosis. Possible mechanisms involved in sensitizing cells to a p53-dependent apoptosis pathway in spite of the ability of T antigen to bind and inactivate the transcriptional transactivating activity of p53 are discussed.

T antigens of simian virus 40: molecular chaperones for viral replication and tumorigenesis

Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a small DNA tumor virus that has been extensively characterized due to its relatively simple genetic organization and the ease with which its genome is manipulated. The large and small tumor antigens (T antigens) are the major regulatory proteins encoded by SV40. Large T antigen is responsible for both viral and cellular transcriptional regulation, virion assembly, viral DNA replication, and alteration of the cell cycle. Deciphering how a single protein can perform such numerous and diverse functions has remained elusive. Recently it was established that the SV40 T antigens, including large T antigen, are molecular chaperones, each with a functioning DnaJ domain. The molecular chaperones were originally identified as bacterial genes essential for bacteriophage growth and have since been shown to be conserved in eukaryotes, participating in an array of both viral and cellular processes. This review discusses the mechanisms of DnaJ/Hsc70 interactions and how they are used by T antigen to control viral replication and tumorigenesis. The use of the DnaJ/Hsc70 system by SV40 and other viruses suggests an important role for these molecular chaperones in the regulation of the mammalian cell cycle and sheds light on the enigmatic SV40 T antigen-a most amazing molecule.

Binding of p300/CBP co-activators by polyoma large T antigen

Small DNA tumor viruses such as simian virus 40 (SV40) and polyomavirus (Py) take advantage of host cell proteins to transcribe and replicate their DNA. Interactions between the viral T antigens and host proteins result in cell transformation and tumor induction. Large T antigen of SV40 interacts with p53, pRb/p107/p130 family members, and the cyclic AMP-responsive element-binding protein (CREB)-binding protein (CBP)/p300. Py large T antigen is known to interact only with pRb and p300 among these proteins. Here we report that Py large T binds to CBP in vivo and in vitro. In co-transfection assays, Py large T inhibits the co-activation functions of CBP/p300 in CREB-mediated transactivation but not in NF-kappa B-mediated transactivation. p53 appears not to be involved in the functions of CREB-mediated transactivation and is not essential for large T:CBP interaction. Mutations introduced into a region of Py large T with homology to adenovirus E1A and SV40 large T prevent binding to the co-activators. These mutant large T antigens fail to inhibit CREB-mediated transactivation. The CBP/p300-binding Py mutants are able to transform established rat embryo fibroblasts but are restricted in their ability to induce tumors in the newborn mouse, indicating that interaction of large T with the co-activators may be essential for virus replication and spread in the intact host.

Epstein-Barr virus immediate-early protein BRLF1 interacts with CBP, promoting enhanced BRLF1 transactivation

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) immediate-early protein BRLF1 is a transcriptional activator that mediates the switch from latent to lytic viral replication. Many transcriptional activators function, in part, due to an interaction with histone acetylases, such as CREB-binding protein (CBP). Here we demonstrate that BRLF1 interacts with the amino and carboxy termini of CBP and that multiple domains of the BRLF1 protein are necessary for this interaction. Furthermore, we show that the interaction between BRLF1 and CBP is important for BRLF1-induced activation of the early lytic EBV gene SM in Raji cells.

Effect on polyomavirus T-antigen function of mutations in a conserved leucine-rich segment of the DnaJ domain

The N-terminal part of the mouse polyomavirus T antigens contains a highly conserved segment (-LLELLKL-), including amino acid residues 13 to 19. The sequence motif is predicted to form alpha helix I in the DnaJ domain of the T antigens. Four mutants with conservative substitutions of amino acid residues 13 and 14 were constructed. Of the four substitutions, L13M, L13I, L13V, and L14V, only L13V resulted in a phenotypic change. In transfected mouse cells, L13V large T antigen showed a more than 100-fold-reduced viral DNA synthesis. The viral replication could not be rescued by cotransfection of the cells with DNA expressing small t antigen or a large T antigen truncated at the C terminus that would compensate for a defect in host cell stimulation. In contrast to the effect on DNA replication, the L13V substitution in large T antigen did not prevent complex formation with Hsc70 and the Rb protein. Also, the activity of the protein in transactivation of transcription from the adenovirus E2 promoter was unimpaired, showing that the transcription factor E2F was released from pRb. The L13V substitution also caused a defect in small t antigen. However, this phenotypic change was due to protein instability. In contrast, middle T antigen with the L13V substitution remained stable and functional in cellular transformation. Together, the data show that the effect of the L13V substitution did not abrogate the Hsc70 interaction of the DnaJ domain. However, it is possible that the substitution of amino acid residue 13 affected specific DnaJ functions of large T antigen.

Role of T antigen interactions with p53 in tumorigenesis

SV40 induces neoplastic transformation by disabling several key cellular growth regulatory circuits. Among these are the Rb- and p53-families of tumor suppressors. The multifunctional, virus-encoded large T antigen blocks the function of both Rb and p53. Large T antigen uses multiple mechanisms to block p53 activity, and this action contributes to tumorigenesis, in part, by blocking p53-mediated growth suppression and apoptosis. Since the p53 pathway is inactivated in most human tumors, T antigen/p53 interactions offer a possible mechanism by which SV40 contributes to human cancer.

Cellular transformation by SV40 large T antigen: interaction with host proteins

SV40 large T antigen (TAg) is a powerful oncoprotein capable of transforming a variety of cell types. The transforming activity of TAg is due in large part to its perturbation of the retinoblastoma (pRB) and p53 tumor suppressor proteins. In addition, TAg binds to several other cellular factors, including the transcriptional co-activators p300 and CBP, which may contribute to its transformation function. Several other features of TAg that appear to contribute to its full transformation potential are yet to be completely understood. Study of TAg therefore continues to provide new insights into the mechanism of cellular transformation.

SV40 and cell cycle perturbations in malignant mesothelioma

Although epidemiological findings have established that exposure to asbestos fibers is the major cause of malignant mesothelioma (MM), recent studies have implicated simian virus 40 (SV40) in the etiology of some of these tumors. Cytogenetic and molecular genetic evidence suggests that multiple somatic genetic events are required for tumorigenic conversion of a mesothelial cell. As with many other types of cancer, in MM critical oncogenic events exert their action via perturbations of the cell cycle. Interactions between the retinoblastoma (Rb) family of proteins and oncoproteins encoded by SV40 lead to cell cycle alterations. Likewise, inhibition of the p53 tumor suppressor by SV40 can inactivate a crucial cell cycle checkpoint, thereby permitting cells to undergo mitosis regardless of the presence of DNA damage. Many MMs exhibit loss and/or inactivation of the tumor suppressors p16(INK4a)and p14(ARF), components of the pRb and p53 cell cycle regulatory pathways, respectively. Recent investigations have demonstrated that SV40 large T antigen, isolated from frozen biopsies of human MM specimens, binds to and inactivates various tumor suppressor gene products such as pRb and p53. In this review, we discuss how SV40-oncosuppressor interactions can lead to functional alterations of the pRb- and p53-dependent cell cycle regulatory pathways and thereby contribute to neoplastic transformation of human mesothelial cells.

Role of the amino-terminal domain of simian virus 40 early region in inducing tumors in secretin-expressing cells in transgenic mice

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The early region of simian virus 40 (SV40) encodes 2 transforming proteins, large T (Tag) and small t antigen, that produce neuroendocrine tumors in the intestine and the pancreas when expressed in secretin cells of transgenic mice.

METHODS

Two SV40 early-region transgenes containing a deletion that eliminated expression of the small t antigen were expressed in transgenic mice under control of the secretin gene. The 2 lines of mice, one expressing the native large T antigen and the other T antigen with a mutation in its N-terminal J domain, were examined to determine which biological activities of the SV40 early region were required for tumorigenesis.

RESULTS

Most animals expressing wild-type large T antigen developed pancreatic insulinomas and lymphomas and died between 3 and 6 months of age. However, small intestinal neoplasms were extremely rare in the absence of small t antigen expression. Transgenic lines expressing the J domain mutant failed to develop tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Transformation of secretin-producing enteroendocrine cells by SV40 requires functional cooperation between intact large T and small t oncoproteins. In contrast, large T antigen alone is sufficient to induce tumors in the endocrine pancreas and thymus.

BAP37 and Prohibitin are specifically recognized by an SV40 T antigen antibody

We have identified two cellular proteins that are specifically immunoprecipitated by an anti-SV40 T antigen monoclonal antibody. This antibody, PAb419, recognizes an epitope contained within a region of T antigen which we have recently demonstrated is required for the initiation of immortalization by SV40 T antigen, but is not essential for maintenance of the immortal state. The two proteins were identified as BAP37 and Prohibitin. Recent results suggest Prohibitin may enhance the transcriptional inactivation of E2F by the retinoblastoma family of pocket proteins (pRb, p107, p130). BAP37 and Prohibitin are specifically recognized by PAb419 and PAb210, another anti-SV40 T antigen monoclonal antibody, which has an overlapping epitope, but not by other anti-SV40 T antigen monoclonal antibodies, demonstrating the specificity of the interaction.

Loss of p19(ARF) eliminates the requirement for the pRB-binding motif in simian virus 40 large T antigen-mediated transformation

At least three domains of simian virus 40 large T antigen (TAg) participate in cellular transformation. The LXCXE motif of TAg binds to all members of the retinoblastoma protein (pRB) family of tumor suppressors. The N-terminal 70 residues of TAg have significant homology to the J domain of Hsp40/DnaJ and cooperate with the LXCXE motif to inactivate the pRB family. A bipartite C-terminal domain of TAg binds to p53 and thereby disrupts the ability of p53 to act as a sequence-specific transcription factor. The contribution of these three domains of TAg to cellular transformation was evaluated in cells that contained inactivating mutations in the pRB and p53 pathways. Cells that stably expressed wild-type or selected mutant forms of TAg were generated in mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs) containing homozygous deletions in the RB, INK4a, and ARF loci. It was determined that the J domain, the LXCXE motif, and the p53-binding domain of TAg were required for full transformation of wild-type and RB(-/-) MEFs. In contrast, INK4a(-/-) MEFs that lacked expression of p16(INK4a) and p19(ARF) and ARF(-/-) MEFs that lacked p19(ARF) but expressed p16(INK4a) acquired anchorage-independent growth when expressing wild-type TAg or mutant derivatives that disrupted either the pRB-binding or p53-binding domain. The expression and function of the pRB family members were not overly disrupted in ARF(-/-) MEFs expressing LXCXE mutants of TAg. These results suggest that inactivating mutations of p19(ARF) can relieve the requirement for the LXCXE motif in TAg-mediated transformation and that TAg may have additional functions in transformation.

Reversal of an antiestrogen-mediated cell cycle arrest of MCF-7 cells by viral tumor antigens requires the retinoblastoma protein-binding domain

Proliferation of MCF-7 cells is estrogen dependent and antiestrogen sensitive. In the absence of estrogens or presence of antiestrogens MCF-7 cells arrest in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, and this arrest is associated with an accumulation of the active, hypophosphorylated form of the retinoblastoma protein (pRb). Because active pRb negatively regulates passage from G1 to S phase, this suggests that pRb is a crucial target of estrogen action, and that its inactivation might lead to antiestrogen resistance. We tested this hypothesis by expressing viral tumor antigens (T antigens), which bind and inactivate pRb, in MCF-7 cells, and determining the effects on cell proliferation in the presence of antiestrogens. The results of these experiments demonstrate that T antigen expression confers antiestrogen resistance to MCF-7 cells. Using a panel of mutant T antigens, we further demonstrate that the pRb-binding, but not the p53 binding domain is required to confer antiestrogen resistance. Thus, pRb is an important target of estrogen action, and its inactivation can contribute to the development of antiestrogen resistance.

The evolutionarily conserved N-terminal region of Cbl is sufficient to enhance down-regulation of the epidermal growth factor receptor

The mammalian proto-oncoprotein Cbl and its homologues in Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila are evolutionarily conserved negative regulators of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R). Overexpression of wild-type Cbl enhances down-regulation of activated EGF-R from the cell surface. We report that the Cbl tyrosine kinase-binding (TKB) domain is essential for this activity. Whereas wild-type Cbl enhanced ligand-dependent EGF-R ubiquitination, down-regulation from the cell surface, accumulation in intracellular vesicles, and degradation, a Cbl TKB domain-inactivated mutant (G306E) did not. Furthermore, the transforming truncation mutant Cbl-N (residues 1-357), comprising only the Cbl TKB domain, functioned as a dominant negative protein. It colocalized with EGF-R in intracellular vesicular structures, yet it suppressed down-regulation of EGF-R from the surface of cells expressing endogenous wild-type Cbl. Therefore, Cbl-mediated down-regulation of EGF-R requires the integrity of both the N-terminal TKB domain and additional C-terminal sequences. A Cbl truncation mutant comprising amino acids 1-440 functioned like wild-type Cbl in down-regulation assays. This mutant includes the evolutionarily conserved TKB and RING finger domains but lacks the less conserved C-terminal sequences. We conclude that the evolutionarily conserved N terminus of Cbl is sufficient to effect enhancement of EGF-R ubiquitination and down-regulation from the cell surface.

Epstein-Barr virus nuclear protein 2 interacts with p300, CBP, and PCAF histone acetyltransferases in activation of the LMP1 promoter

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) nuclear protein 2 (EBNA2) and herpes simplex virion protein 16 (VP16) acidic domains that mediate transcriptional activation now are found to have affinity for p300, CBP, and PCAF histone acetyltransferases (HATs). Transcriptionally inactive point mutations in these domains lack affinity for p300, CBP, or PCAF. P300 and CBP copurify with the principal HAT activities that bind to EBNA2 or VP16 acidic domains through velocity sedimentation and anion-exchange chromatography. EBNA2 binds to both the N- and C-terminal domains of p300 and coimmune-precipitates from transfected 293T cells with p300. In EBV-infected Akata Burkitt's tumor cells that do not express the EBV encoded oncoproteins EBNA2 or LMP1, p300 expression enhances the ability of EBNA2 to up-regulate LMP1 expression. Through its intrinsic HAT activity, PCAF can further potentiate the p300 effect. In 293 T cells, P300 and CBP (but not PCAF) can also coactivate transcription mediated by the EBNA2 or VP16 acidic domains and HAT-negative mutants of p300 have partial activity. Thus, the EBNA2 and VP16 acidic domains can utilize the intrinsic HAT or scaffolding properties of p300 to activate transcription.

pRB-dependent, J domain-independent function of simian virus 40 large T antigen in override of p53 growth suppression

Simian virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen (LT) can immortalize and transform many cell types. These activities are attributed in large part to the binding and functional inactivation by LT of two major tumor suppressors: p53 and the retinoblastoma protein, pRB. Most effects of LT on pRB have been shown to additionally require an intact J domain, which mediates binding to Hsc70. We show here that the J domain is not required for p53 override in full-length LT. Although LT binds p53, it was shown previously that overcoming a p53-induced cell cycle arrest requires binding to pRB family members (R. S. Quartin et al., J. Virol. 68:1334-1341). We demonstrate that an LT mutant defective for pRB family member binding (K1) can be complemented for efficient override of p53 arrest by a construct encoding the first 135 amino acids of LT with a J domain-inactivating mutation, H42Q. Hence, complementation does not require the J domain, and pRB binding by LT is important for more than dissociating pRB-E2F complexes, which is J dependent. In accordance with this notion, LT alleviates pRB small-pocket-mediated transcriptional repression independently of the J domain. The LT K1 mutant can also be complemented for p53 override by small t antigen (st) in a manner independent of its J domain. Our observations underscore the importance of multiple SV40 functions, two in LT and one in st, that act cooperatively to counteract p53 growth suppression.

E1A oncogene-induced cellular sensitization to immune-mediated apoptosis is independent of p53 and resistant to blockade by E1B 19 kDa protein

E1A oncogene expression sensitizes mammalian cells to apoptosis triggered by cytolytic lymphocytes (CL) [16]. Most studies suggest that E1A-induced apoptosis involves a p53-dependent cellular pathway that is blocked by the E1B 19 kDa gene product. In this study, the roles of p53 and E1B 19 kDa were tested for E1A sensitization to CL-induced apoptosis in contrast with apoptosis triggered by TNF alpha or chemical injuries. E1A sensitization to immune-mediated (CL- or TNF-induced) apoptosis was independent of p53 expression and was resistant to blockade by E1B 19 kDa protein in mouse and hamster cells. In contrast, the p53 requirement for chemically induced apoptosis of E1A-sensitized cells varied with the agent used to treat cells. Apoptosis induced by diverse chemical agents (hygromycin, beauvericin, etoposide, H(2)O(2)) was blocked by E1B 19 kDa expression. Therefore, both the p53-dependence and the E1B 19 kDa blockade of E1A-induced cellular sensitization to apoptotic injury depend on the type of proapoptotic injury tested. These data suggest that the mechanisms by which E1A sensitizes tumor cells to immune-mediated apoptosis and to rejection by immunocompetent animals do not require cellular expression of wild-type p53 and can function independently of the Bcl-2-like, antiapoptotic mechanisms of E1B 19 kDa.

Inhibition of SV40 large T antigen induced apoptosis by small T antigen

It is well established that the expression of simian virus 40 (SV40) early gene products causes oncogenic transformation of rodent cells. An important aspect of this process is the inactivation of the p53 and retinoblastoma (pRb) tumour suppressor proteins through interaction with the SV40 large tumour antigen (LT). In addition, the SV40 small tumour antigen (ST) may enhance LT induced transformation. Here we show that LT induces apoptotic cell death in rat embryo fibroblast (REF) cells and that ST functions to inhibit this effect by a mechanism which is different from other known anti-apoptotic proteins. Mutational analysis of LT indicates that mutants defective in the pRb-binding domain are unable to induce apoptosis whereas LT mutants defective in the p53-binding domain are still competent to induce apoptosis. Thus, interaction between LT and one or more pRb family members must occur for induction of apoptosis and that binding of p53 by LT is insufficient to inhibit LT induced apoptosis in REFs. The data presented herein suggest that the anti-apoptotic function of ST may explain, at least in part, how ST contributes to SV40 early region induced transformation of REF cells.

The Epstein-Barr virus BZLF1 protein interacts physically and functionally with the histone acetylase CREB-binding protein

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) immediate-early protein BZLF1 (Z) is a key regulator of the EBV latent-to-lytic switch. Z is a transcriptional activator which induces EBV early gene expression. We demonstrate here that Z interacts with CREB-binding protein (CBP), a histone acetylase and transcriptional coactivator. This interaction requires the amino-terminal region of CBP as well as the transactivation and leucine zipper domains of Z. We show that CBP enhances Z-mediated transactivation of EBV early promoters, in reporter gene assays and in the context of the endogenous genome. We also demonstrate that Z decreases CREB transactivation function and that this inhibitory effect is reversed by overexpression of CBP. We show that Z also interacts directly with CREB. However, mutational analysis indicates that Z inhibition of CREB activity requires the direct interaction between Z and CBP but not the direct interaction between Z and CREB. We propose that Z interacts with CBP to enhance viral early gene transcription. In addition, the Z-CBP interaction may control host cellular transcription factor activity through competition for limiting amounts of cellular CBP.

p300/cAMP-responsive element-binding protein interactions with ets-1 and ets-2 in the transcriptional activation of the human stromelysin promoter

In this paper we show that transcription factors Ets-1 and Ets-2 recruit transcription adapter proteins p300 and CBP (cAMP-responsive element-binding protein) during the transcriptional activation of the human stromelysin promoter, which contains palindromic Ets-binding sites. Ets-2 and p300/CBP exist as a complex in vivo. Two regions of p300/CBP between amino acids (a.a.) 328 and 596 and a. a. 1678 and 2370 independently can interact with Ets-1 and Ets-2 in vitro and in vivo. Both these regions of p300/CBP bind to the transactivation domain of Ets-2, whereas the C-terminal region binds only to the DNA binding domain of Ets-2. The N- and the C-terminal regions of CBP (a.a. 1-1097 and 1678-2442, respectively) which lack histone acetylation activity independently are capable of coactivating Ets-2. Other Ets family transcription factors failed to cooperate with p300/CBP in stimulating the stromelysin promoter. The LXXLL sequence, reported to be important in receptor-coactivator interactions, does not appear to play a role in the interaction of Ets-2 with p300/CBP. Previous studies have shown that the stimulation of transcriptional activation activity of Ets-2 requires phosphorylation of threonine 72 by the Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway. We show that mutation of this site does not affect its capacity to bind to and to cooperate with p300/CBP.

A kinase activity associated with simian virus 40 large T antigen phosphorylates upstream binding factor (UBF) and promotes formation of a stable initiation complex between UBF and SL1

Simian virus 40 large T antigen is a multifunctional protein which has been shown to modulate the expression of genes transcribed by RNA polymerase I (Pol I), II, and III. In all three transcription systems, a key step in the activation process is the recruitment of large T antigen to the promoter by direct protein-protein interaction with the TATA binding protein (TBP)-TAF complexes, namely, SL1, TFIID, and TFIIIB. However, our previous studies on large T antigen stimulation of Pol I transcription also revealed that the binding to the TBP-TAFI complex SL1 is not sufficient to activate transcription. To further define the molecular mechanism involved in large T antigen-mediated Pol I activation, we examined whether the high-mobility group box-containing upstream binding factor (UBF) plays any role in this process. Here, using cell labeling experiments, we showed that large T antigen expression induces an increase in UBF phosphorylation. Further biochemical analysis demonstrated that UBF is phosphorylated by a kinase activity that is strongly associated with large T antigen, and that the carboxy-terminal activation domain of UBF is required for the phosphorylation to occur. Using in vitro reconstituted transcription assays, we demonstrated that the inability of alkaline phosphatase treated UBF to efficiently activate transcription can be rescued by large T antigen. Moreover, we showed that large T antigen-induced UBF phosphorylation promotes the formation of a stable UBF-SL1 complex. Together, these results provide strong evidence for an important role for the large T antigen-associated kinase in mediating the stimulation of RNA Pol I transcription.

Polyomavirus large T antigen induces alterations in cytoplasmic signalling pathways involving Shc activation

It has been extensively demonstrated that growth factors play a key role in the regulation of proliferation. Several lines of evidence support the hypothesis that for the induction of cell cycle progression in the absence of exogenous growth factors, oncogenes must either induce autocrine growth factor secretion or, alternatively, activate their receptors or their receptor substrates. Cells expressing polyomavirus large T antigen (PyLT) display reduced growth factor requirements, but the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon have yet to be explored. We conducted tests to see whether the reduction in growth factor requirements induced by PyLT was related to alterations of growth factor-dependent signals. To this end, we analyzed the phosphorylation status of a universal tyrosine kinase substrate, the transforming Shc adapter protein, in fibroblasts expressing the viral oncogene. We report that the level of Shc phosphorylation does not decrease in PyLT-expressing fibroblasts after growth factor withdrawal and that this PyLT-mediated effect does not require interaction with protein encoded by the retinoblastoma susceptibility gene. We also found that the chronic activation of the adapter protein is correlated with the binding of Shc to Grb-2 and with defects in the downregulation of mitogen-activated protein kinases. In fibroblasts expressing the nuclear oncoprotein, we also observed the formation of a PyLT-Shc complex that might be involved in constitutive phosphorylation of the adapter protein. Viewed comprehensively, these results suggest that the cell cycle progression induced by PyLT may depend not only on the direct inactivation of nuclear antioncogene products but also on the indirect induction, through the alteration of cytoplasmic pathways, of growth factor-dependent nuclear signals.