Lck regulates Vav activation of members of the Rho family of GTPases

Fluid shear stress enhances natural killer cell's cytotoxicity toward circulating tumor cells through NKG2D-mediated mechanosensing

Tumor cells metastasize to distant organs mainly via hematogenous dissemination, in which circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are relatively vulnerable, and eliminating these cells has great potential to prevent metastasis. In vasculature, natural killer (NK) cells are the major effector lymphocytes for efficient killing of CTCs under fluid shear stress (FSS), which is an important mechanical cue in tumor metastasis. However, the influence of FSS on the cytotoxicity of NK cells against CTCs remains elusive. We report that the death rate of CTCs under both NK cells and FSS is much higher than the combined death induced by either NK cells or FSS, suggesting that FSS may enhance NK cell's cytotoxicity. This death increment is elicited by shear-induced NK activation and granzyme B entry into target cells rather than the death ligand TRAIL or secreted cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ. When NK cells form conjugates with CTCs or adhere to MICA-coated substrates, NK cell activating receptor NKG2D can directly sense FSS to induce NK activation and degranulation. These findings reveal the promotive effect of FSS on NK cell's cytotoxicity toward CTCs, thus providing new insight into immune surveillance of CTCs within circulation.

Unraveling the Oncogenic Potential of VAV1 in Human Cancer: Lessons from Mouse Models

VAV1 is a hematopoietic signal transducer that possesses a GDP/GTP nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that is tightly regulated by tyrosine phosphorylation, along with adapter protein domains, such as SH2 and SH3. Research on VAV1 has advanced over the years since its discovery as an in vitro activated oncogene in an NIH3T3 screen for oncogenes. Although the oncogenic form of VAV1 first identified in the screen has not been detected in human clinical tumors, its wild-type and mutant forms have been implicated in mammalian malignancies of various tissue origins, as well as those of the hematopoietic system. This review article addresses the activity of human VAV1 as an overexpressed or mutated gene and also describes the differences in the distribution of VAV1 mutations in the hematopoietic system and in other tissues. The knowledge accumulated thus far from GEMMs expressing VAV1 is described, with the conclusion that GEMMs of both wild-type VAV1 and mutant VAV1 do not form tumors, yet these will be generated when additional molecular insults, such as loss of p53 or KRAS mutation, occur.

Vav2 is a novel APP-interacting protein that regulates APP protein level

Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a transmembrane protein that plays critical role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). It is also involved in many types of cancers. Increasing evidence has shown that the tyrosine phosphorylation site Y682 in the intracellular tail of APP is crucial for APP function. Here, we report that Vav2, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Rho family GTPase, is a novel interaction partner of APP. We found that Vav2-SH2 domain was able to bind directly to the Y682-phosphorylated intracellular tail of APP through isothermal titration calorimetry and NMR titrating experiments. The crystal structure of Vav2-SH2 in complex with an APP-derived phosphopeptide was determined to understand the structural basis of this recognition specificity. The interaction of APP and Vav2 in a full-length manner was further confirmed in cells by GST pull-down, co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence staining experiments. In addition, we found overexpression of Vav2 could inhibit APP degradation and markedly increase the protein levels of APP and its cleavage productions in 20E2 cells, and this function of Vav2 required a functional SH2 domain.

PI Kinase-EhGEF2-EhRho5 axis contributes to LPA stimulated macropinocytosis in Entamoeba histolytica

Entamoeba histolytica is a protozoan responsible for several pathologies in humans. Trophozoites breach the intestinal site to enter the bloodstream and thus traverse to a secondary site. Macropinocytosis and phagocytosis, collectively accounting for heterophagy, are the two major processes responsible for sustenance of Entamoeba histolytica within the host. Both of these processes require significant rearrangements in the structure to entrap the target. Rho GTPases play an indispensable role in mustering proteins that regulate cytoskeletal remodelling. Unlike phagocytosis which has been studied in extensive detail, information on machinery of macropinocytosis in E. histolytica is still limited. In the current study, using site directed mutagenesis and RNAi based silencing, coupled with functional studies, we have demonstrated the involvement of EhRho5 in constitutive and LPA stimulated macropinocytosis. We also report that LPA, a bioactive phospholipid present in the bloodstream of the host, activates EhRho5 and translocates it from cytosol to plasma membrane and endomembrane compartments. Using biochemical and FRAP studies, we established that a PI Kinase acts upstream of EhRho5 in LPA mediated signalling. We further identified EhGEF2 as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor of EhRho5. In the amoebic trophozoites, EhGEF2 depletion leads to reduced macropinocytic efficiency of trophozoites, thus phenocopying its substrate. Upon LPA stimulation, EhGEF2 is found to sequester near the plasma membrane in a wortmannin sensitive fashion, explaining a possible mode for activation of EhRho5 in the amoebic trophozoites. Collectively, we propose that LPA stimulated macropinocytosis in E. histolytica is driven by the PI Kinase-EhGEF2-EhRho5 axis.

Entamoeba histolytica is an enteric parasite in humans, which leads to various pathologies like dysentery, diarrhoea and abscess formation. Host cells are known to secrete chemokines and growth factors, which are utilized by trophozoites for sustenance and pathogenesis. The sustenance of this parasite within the host requires nutrient uptake, which involves macropinocytosis and phagocytosis. However, the regulation of macropinocytosis is less explored in E. histolytica. We have established for the first time that constitutive as well as LPA stimulated macropinocytosis in amoebic trophozoites functions via PI Kinase-EhGEF2-EhRho5 axis. We also excavated the dynamicity and the spatio-temporal regulation of EhRho5 activity and the associated dynamics in the LPA stimulated cells.

Spatially resolved in silico modeling of NKG2D signaling kinetics suggests a key role of NKG2D and Vav1 Co-clustering in generating natural killer cell activation

Natural Killer (NK) cells provide key resistance against viral infections and tumors. A diverse set of activating and inhibitory NK cell receptors (NKRs) interact with cognate ligands presented by target host cells, where integration of dueling signals initiated by the ligand-NKR interactions determines NK cell activation or tolerance. Imaging experiments over decades have shown micron and sub-micron scale spatial clustering of activating and inhibitory NKRs. The mechanistic roles of these clusters in affecting downstream signaling and activation are often unclear. To this end, we developed a predictive in silico framework by combining spatially resolved mechanistic agent based modeling, published TIRF imaging data, and parameter estimation to determine mechanisms by which formation and spatial movements of activating NKG2D microclusters affect early time NKG2D signaling kinetics in a human cell line NKL. We show co-clustering of NKG2D and the guanosine nucleotide exchange factor Vav1 in NKG2D microclusters plays a dominant role over ligand (ULBP3) rebinding in increasing production of phospho-Vav1(pVav1), an activation marker of early NKG2D signaling. The in silico model successfully predicts several scenarios of inhibition of NKG2D signaling and time course of NKG2D spatial clustering over a short (~3 min) interval. Modeling shows the presence of a spatial positive feedback relating formation and centripetal movements of NKG2D microclusters, and pVav1 production offers flexibility towards suppression of activating signals by inhibitory KIR ligands organized in inhomogeneous spatial patterns (e.g., a ring). Our in silico framework marks a major improvement in developing spatiotemporal signaling models with quantitatively estimated model parameters using imaging data.

Natural Killer cells are lymphocytes of our innate immunity and provide important resistance against viral infections and tumors. NK cells scan the local environment with diverse activating and inhibitory NK cell receptors (NKRs) and remain tolerized or lyse target cells expressing cognate ligands to NKRs. NKRs have been found to form micron sized clusters (or microclusters) as they interact with cognate ligands, and mechanisms regarding how the formation and movements of these microclusters influence NK cell signaling and activation, specifically related to activating NKRs, are often unclear. To this end, we develop a predictive spatially resolved early-time NK cell signaling model to study the interplay between membrane-proximal biochemical signaling events and the kinetics of microclusters of activating NKG2D and inhibitory KIR2DL2 receptors. We used published TIRF imaging data to validate our in silico models and estimate model parameters. Predictions from multiple in silico models are tested against a variety of data obtained from published imaging experiments and immunoassays. Our analysis suggests co-clustering of NKG2D and the guanosine nucleotide exchange factor Vav1 in the microclusters plays a major role in enhancing downstream activating signals. The developed framework can be extended to describe spatiotemporal signaling for other activating NKRs including CD16.

Small Rho GTPases and their associated RhoGEFs mutations promote immunological defects in primary immunodeficiencies

Primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) are associated with deleterious mutations of genes that encode proteins involved in actin cytoskeleton reorganisation. This deficiency affects haematopoietic cells. PID results in the defective function of immune cells, such as impaired chemokine-induced motility, receptor signalling, development and maturation. Some of the genes mutated in PIDs are related to small Ras homologous (Rho) guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase), one of the families of the Ras superfamily. Most of these genes act as molecular switches by cycling between active guanosine triphosphate-bound and inactive guanosine diphosphate-bound forms to control multiple cellular functions. They are best studied for their role in promoting cytoskeleton reorganisation, cell adhesion and motility. Currently, only three small Rho GTPases, namely, Rac2, Cdc42 and RhoH, have been identified in PIDs. However, several other Rho small G proteins might also contribute to the deregulation and phenotype observed in PIDs. Their contribution in PIDs may involve their main regulator, Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factors such as DOCK2 and DOCK8, wherein mutations may result in the impairment of small Rho GTPase activation. Thus, this review outlines the potential contribution of several small Rho GTPases to the promotion of PIDs.

Emerging Roles of Small GTPases in Islet β-Cell Function

Several small guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) from the Ras protein superfamily regulate glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in the pancreatic islet β-cell. The Rho family GTPases Cdc42 and Rac1 are primarily involved in relaying key signals in several cellular functions, including vesicle trafficking, plasma membrane homeostasis, and cytoskeletal dynamics. They orchestrate specific changes at each spatiotemporal region within the β-cell by coordinating with signal transducers, guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), GTPase-activating factors (GAPs), and their effectors. The Arf family of small GTPases is involved in vesicular trafficking (exocytosis and endocytosis) and actin cytoskeletal dynamics. Rab-GTPases regulate pre-exocytotic and late endocytic membrane trafficking events in β-cells. Several additional functions for small GTPases include regulating transcription factor activity and mitochondrial dynamics. Importantly, defects in several of these GTPases have been found associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) etiology. The purpose of this review is to systematically denote the identities and molecular mechanistic steps in the glucose-stimulated insulin secretion pathway that leads to the normal release of insulin. We will also note newly identified defects in these GTPases and their corresponding regulatory factors (e.g., GDP dissociation inhibitors (GDIs), GEFs, and GAPs) in the pancreatic β-cells, which contribute to the dysregulation of metabolism and the development of T2D.

The Role of RhoH in TCR Signalling and Its Involvement in Diseases

As an atypical member of the Rho family small GTPases, RhoH shares less than 50% sequence similarity with other members, and its expression is commonly observed in the haematopoietic lineage. To date, RhoH function was observed in regulating T cell receptor signalling, and less is known in other haematopoietic cells. Its activation may not rely on the standard GDP/GTP cycling of small G proteins and is thought to be constitutively active because critical amino acids involved in GTP hydrolysis are absent. Alternatively, its activation can be regulated by other types of regulation, including lysosomal degradation, somatic mutation and transcriptional repressor, which also results in an altered protein expression. Aberrant protein expression of RhoH has been implicated not only in B cell malignancies but also in immune-related diseases, such as primary immunodeficiencies, systemic lupus erythematosus and psoriasis, wherein its involvement may provide the link between immune-related diseases and cancer. RhoH association with these diseases involves several other players, including its interacting partner, ZAP-70; activation regulators, Vav1 and RhoGDI and other small GTPases, such as RhoA, Rac1 and Cdc42. As such, RhoH and its associated proteins are potential attack points, especially in the treatment of cancer and immune-related diseases.

VAV1 mutations contribute to development of T-cell neoplasms in mice

Activating mutations in the Vav guanine nucleotide exchange factor 1 (VAV1) gene are reported in various subtypes of mature T-cell neoplasms (TCNs). However, oncogenic activities associated with VAV1 mutations in TCNs remain unclear. To define them, we established transgenic mice expressing VAV1 mutants cloned from human TCNs. Although we observed no tumors in these mice for up to a year, tumors did develop in comparably aged mice on a p53-null background (p53-/-VAV1-Tg), and p53-/-VAV1-Tg mice died with shorter latencies than did p53-null (p53-/-) mice. Notably, various TCNs with tendency of maturation developed in p53-/-VAV1-Tg mice, whereas p53-/- mice exhibited only immature TCNs. Mature TCNs in p53-/-VAV1-Tg mice mimicked a subtype of human peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL-GATA3) and exhibited features of type 2 T helper (Th2) cells. Phenotypes seen following transplantation of either p53-/-VAV1 or p53-/- tumor cells into nude mice were comparable, indicating cell-autonomous tumor-initiating capacity. Whole-transcriptome analysis showed enrichment of multiple Myc-related pathways in TCNs from p53-/-VAV1-Tg mice relative to p53-/- or wild-type T cells. Remarkably, amplification of the Myc locus was found recurrently in TCNs of p53-/-VAV1-Tg mice. Finally, treatment of nude mice transplanted with p53-/-VAV1-Tg tumor cells with JQ1, a bromodomain inhibitor that targets the Myc pathway, prolonged survival of mice. We conclude that VAV1 mutations function in malignant transformation of T cells in vivo and that VAV1-mutant-expressing mice could provide an efficient tool for screening new therapeutic targets in TCNs harboring these mutations.

Advances in understanding of angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma

It has been nearly half a century since angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) was characterized in the early 1970’s. Our understanding of the disease has dramatically changed due to multiple discoveries and insights. One of the key features of AITL is aberrant immune activity. Although AITL is now understood to be a neoplastic disease, pathologists appreciated that it was an inflammatory condition. The more we understand AITL at cellular and genetic levels, the more we view it as both a neoplastic and an inflammatory disease. Here, we review recent progress in our understanding of AITL, focusing on as yet unsolved questions.

Ehrlichia chaffeensis Uses an Invasin To Suppress Reactive Oxygen Species Generation by Macrophages via CD147-Dependent Inhibition of Vav1 To Block Rac1 Activation

The obligatory intracellular pathogen Ehrlichia chaffeensis lacks most factors that could respond to oxidative stress (a host cell defense mechanism). We previously found that the C terminus of Ehrlichia surface invasin, entry-triggering protein of Ehrlichia (EtpE; EtpE-C) directly binds mammalian DNase X, a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored cell surface receptor and that binding is required to induce bacterial entry and simultaneously to block the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by host monocytes and macrophages. However, how the EtpE-C-DNase X complex mediates the ROS blockade was unknown. A mammalian transmembrane glycoprotein CD147 (basigin) binds to the EtpE-DNase X complex and is required for Ehrlichia entry and infection of host cells. Here, we found that bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) from myeloid cell lineage-selective CD147-null mice had significantly reduced Ehrlichia-induced or EtpE-C-induced blockade of ROS generation in response to phorbol myristate acetate. In BMDM from CD147-null mice, nucleofection with CD147 partially restored the Ehrlichia-mediated inhibition of ROS generation. Indeed, CD147-null mice as well as their BMDM were resistant to Ehrlichia infection. Moreover, in human monocytes, anti-CD147 partially abrogated EtpE-C-induced blockade of ROS generation. Both Ehrlichia and EtpE-C could block activation of the small GTPase Rac1 (which in turn activates phagocyte NADPH oxidase) and suppress activation of Vav1, a hematopoietic-specific Rho/Rac guanine nucleotide exchange factor by phorbol myristate acetate. Vav1 suppression by Ehrlichia was CD147 dependent. E. chaffeensis is the first example of pathogens that block Rac1 activation to colonize macrophages. Furthermore, Ehrlichia uses EtpE to hijack the unique host DNase X-CD147-Vav1 signaling to block Rac1 activation.IMPORTANCEEhrlichia chaffeensis is an obligatory intracellular bacterium with the capability of causing an emerging infectious disease called human monocytic ehrlichiosis. E. chaffeensis preferentially infects monocytes and macrophages, professional phagocytes, equipped with an arsenal of antimicrobial mechanisms, including rapid reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation upon encountering bacteria. As Ehrlichia isolated from host cells are readily killed upon exposure to ROS, Ehrlichia must have evolved a unique mechanism to safely enter phagocytes. We discovered that binding of the Ehrlichia surface invasin to the host cell surface receptor not only triggers Ehrlichia entry but also blocks ROS generation by the host cells by mobilizing a novel intracellular signaling pathway. Knowledge of the mechanisms by which ROS production is inhibited may lead to the development of therapeutics for ehrlichiosis as well as other ROS-related pathologies.

A PLC-γ1 Feedback Pathway Regulates Lck Substrate Phosphorylation at the T-Cell Receptor and SLP-76 Complex

Phospholipase C gamma 1 (PLC-γ1) occupies a critically important position in the T-cell signaling pathway. While its functions as a regulator of both Ca²⁺ signaling and PKC-family kinases are well characterized, PLC-γ1's role in the regulation of early T-cell receptor signaling events is incompletely understood. Activation of the T-cell receptor leads to the formation of a signalosome complex between SLP-76, LAT, PLC-γ1, Itk, and Vav1. Recent studies have revealed the existence of both positive and negative feedback pathways from SLP-76 to the apical kinase in the pathway, Lck. To determine if PLC-γ1 contributes to the regulation of these feedback networks, we performed a quantitative phosphoproteomic analysis of PLC-γ1-deficient T cells. These data revealed a previously unappreciated role for PLC-γ1 in the positive regulation of Zap-70 and T-cell receptor tyrosine phosphorylation. Conversely, PLC-γ1 negatively regulated the phosphorylation of SLP-76-associated proteins, including previously established Lck substrate phosphorylation sites within this complex. While the positive and negative regulatory phosphorylation sites on Lck were largely unchanged, Tyr¹⁹² phosphorylation was elevated in Jgamma1. The data supports a model wherein Lck's targeting, but not its kinase activity, is altered by PLC-γ1, possibly through Lck Tyr¹⁹² phosphorylation and increased association of the kinase with protein scaffolds SLP-76 and TSAd.

Genetic alterations affecting GTPases and T-cell receptor signaling in peripheral T-cell lymphomas

Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) are rare, heterogeneous tumors with poor response to standard therapy and few targeted treatments available. The identification of mutations in the T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling pathway that either directly or indirectly affect Ras- and Rho-family GTPases is an emerging theme across PTCL subtypes. This review summarizes the role of GTPases in TCR signaling and highlights the constellation of mutations in this pathway among PTCLs. In particular, focus is given to the functional impact of the mutations and opportunities for targeted therapy. These mutations include activating mutations and gene fusions involving the guanine nucleotide exchange factor, VAV1, as well as activating and dominant negative mutations in the GTPases KRAS and RHOA, respectively. In addition to mutations directly affecting the GTPase pathway, TCR signaling mutations indirectly affecting Ras- and Rho-family GTPases involving genes such as CD28, FYN, LCK, and PLCG1 are also reviewed.

Sensitivity Analysis of the NPM-ALK Signalling Network Reveals Important Pathways for Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma Combination Therapy

A large subset of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) patients harbour a somatic aberration in which anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) is fused to nucleophosmin (NPM) resulting in a constitutively active signalling fusion protein, NPM-ALK. We computationally simulated the signalling network which mediates pathological cell survival and proliferation through NPM-ALK to identify therapeutically targetable nodes through which it may be possible to regain control of the tumourigenic process. The simulations reveal the predominant role of the VAV1-CDC42 (cell division control protein 42) pathway in NPM-ALK-driven cellular proliferation and of the Ras / mitogen-activated ERK kinase (MEK) / extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) cascade in controlling cell survival. Our results also highlight the importance of a group of interleukins together with the Janus kinase 3 (JAK3) / signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signalling in the development of NPM-ALK derived ALCL. Depending on the activity of JAK3 and STAT3, the system may also be sensitive to activation of protein tyrosine phosphatase-1 (SHP1), which has an inhibitory effect on cell survival and proliferation. The identification of signalling pathways active in tumourigenic processes is of fundamental importance for effective therapies. The prediction of alternative pathways that circumvent classical therapeutic targets opens the way to preventive approaches for countering the emergence of cancer resistance.

Vav1: A Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde protein--good for the hematopoietic system, bad for cancer

Many deregulated signal transducer proteins are involved in various cancers at numerous stages of tumor development. One of these, Vav1, is normally expressed exclusively in the hematopoietic system, where it functions as a specific GDP/GTP nucleotide exchange factor (GEF), strictly regulated by tyrosine phosphorylation. Vav was first identified in an NIH3T3 screen for oncogenes. Although the oncogenic form of Vav1 identified in the screen has not been detected in clinical human tumors, its wild-type form has recently been implicated in mammalian malignancies, including neuroblastoma, melanoma, pancreatic, lung and breast cancers, and B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. In addition, it was recently identified as a mutated gene in human cancers of various origins. However, the activity and contribution to cancer of these Vav1 mutants is still unclear. This review addresses the physiological function of wild-type Vav1 and its activity as an oncogene in human cancer. It also discusses the novel mutations identified in Vav1 in various cancers and their potential contribution to cancer development as oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes.

VAV2, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rac1, regulates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in pancreatic beta cells

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Rho GTPases (Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 [Rac1] and cell division cycle 42 [Cdc42]) have been shown to regulate glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) via cytoskeletal remodelling, trafficking and fusion of insulin-secretory granules with the plasma membrane. GTP loading of these G proteins, which is facilitated by GDP/GTP exchange factors, is a requisite step in the regulation of downstream effector proteins. Guanine nucleotide exchange factor VAV2 (VAV2), a member of the Dbl family of proteins, has been identified as one of the GDP/GTP exchange factors for Rac1. Despite recent evidence on the regulatory roles of VAV2 in different cell types, roles of this guanine nucleotide exchange factor in the signalling events leading to GSIS remain undefined. Using immunological, short interfering RNA (siRNA), pharmacological and microscopic approaches we investigated the role of VAV2 in GSIS from islet beta cells.

METHODS

Co-localisation of Rac1 and VAV2 was determined by Triton X-114 phase partition and confocal microscopy. Glucose-induced actin remodelling was quantified by live cell imaging using the LifeAct-GFP fluorescent biosensor. Rac1 activation was determined by G protein linked immunosorbent assay (G-LISA).

RESULTS

Western blotting indicated that VAV2 is expressed in INS-1 832/13 beta cells, normal rat islets and human islets. Vav2 siRNA markedly attenuated GSIS in INS-1 832/13 cells. Ehop-016, a newly discovered small molecule inhibitor of the VAV2-Rac1 interaction, or siRNA-mediated knockdown of VAV2 markedly attenuated glucose-induced Rac1 activation and GSIS in INS-1 832/13 cells. Pharmacological findings were recapitulated in primary rat islets. A high glucose concentration promoted co-localisation of Rac1 and VAV2. Real-time imaging in live cells indicated a significant inhibition of glucose-induced cortical actin remodelling by Ehop-016.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Our data provide the first evidence to implicate VAV2 in glucose-induced Rac1 activation, actin remodelling and GSIS in pancreatic beta cells.

Clinical significance and prognostic value of Vav1 expression in Non-small cell lung cancer

Vav1 has been reported to be involved in human cancers, however, the expression and clinical significance of Vav1 in NSCLC are not fully understood. In the present study, we examined the expression of Vav1 in 170 NSCLC patients who underwent radical resection by the immunohistochemical analyses. The association between the Vav1 expression and clinicopathological variables was analyzed. The multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was conducted to determine the prognostic value of Vav1 on the long-term survival. The results showed that the elevated Vav1 expression was correlated positively with lymph node metastasis (P<0.001), T stage (P<0.001) and poor histological differentiation (P<0.001). Patients with negative or low Vav1 expression had better prognoses than those with high Vav1 expression (P<0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that Vav1 was independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) (HR 2.079, 95% CI 1.564 to 2.762, P<0.001) and disease-free survival (DFS) (HR 1.810, 95% CI 1.391 to 2.356, P<0.001). Our findings showed that overexpressed Vav1 was correlated with aggressive tumor behavior. Val1 was an independent factor for NSCLC prognosis, which may serve as a novel prognostic factor and potential target to improve the long-term outcome of NSCLC.

Vav1 Regulates T-Cell Activation through a Feedback Mechanism and Crosstalk between the T-Cell Receptor and CD28

Vav1, a Rac/Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor and a critical component of the T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling cascade is tyrosine phosphorylated rapidly in response to T-cell activation. Vav1 has established roles in proliferation, cytokine secretion, Ca(2+) responses, and actin cytoskeleton regulation; however, its function in the regulation of phosphorylation of TCR components, including the ζ chain, the CD3 δ, ε, γ chains, and the associated kinases Lck and ZAP-70, is not well established. To obtain a more comprehensive picture of the role of Vav1 in receptor proximal signaling, we performed a wide-scale characterization of Vav1-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation events using quantitative phosphoproteomic analysis of Vav1-deficient T cells across a time course of TCR stimulation. Importantly, this study revealed a new function for Vav1 in the negative feedback regulation of the phosphorylation of immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs within the ζ chains, CD3 δ, ε, γ chains, as well as activation sites on the critical T cell tyrosine kinases Itk, Lck, and ZAP-70. Our study also uncovered a previously unappreciated role for Vav1 in crosstalk between the CD28 and TCR signaling pathways.

Distinct c-Met activation mechanisms induce cell rounding or invasion through pathways involving integrins, RhoA and HIP1

Many carcinomas have acquired oncogenic mechanisms for activating c-Met, including c-Met overexpression and excessive autocrine or paracrine stimulation with hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). However, the biological outcome of c-Met activation through these distinct modes remains ambiguous. Here, we report that HGF-mediated c-Met stimulation triggers a mesenchymal-type collective cell invasion. By contrast, the overexpression of c-Met promotes cell rounding. Moreover, in a high-throughput siRNA screen that was performed using a library of siRNAs against putative regulators of integrin activity, we identified RhoA and the clathrin-adapter protein HIP1 as crucial c-Met effectors in these morphological changes. Transient RhoA activation was necessary for the HGF-induced invasion, whereas sustained RhoA activity regulated c-Met-induced cell rounding. In addition, c-Met-induced cell rounding correlated with the phosphorylation of filamin A and the downregulation of active cell-surface integrins. By contrast, a HIP1-mediated increase in β1-integrin turnover was required for the invasion triggered by HGF. Taken together, our results indicate that c-Met induces distinct cell morphology alterations depending on the stimulus that activates c-Met.

Vav1 as a central regulator of invadopodia assembly

Invadopodia are protrusive structures used by tumor cells for degradation of the extracellular matrix to promote invasion [1]. Invadopodia formation and function are regulated by cytoskeletal-remodeling pathways and the oncogenic kinase Src. The guanine nucleotide exchange factor Vav1, which is an activator of Rho family GTPases, is ectopically expressed in many pancreatic cancers, where it promotes tumor cell survival and migration [2, 3]. We have now determined that Vav1 is also a potent regulator of matrix degradation by pancreatic tumor cells as depletion of Vav1 by siRNA-mediated knockdown inhibits the formation of invadopodia. This requires the exchange function of Vav1 toward the GTPase Cdc42, which is required for invadopodia assembly [4, 5]. In addition, we have determined that Src-mediated phosphorylation and activation of Vav1 are both required for, and, unexpectedly, sufficient for, invadopodia formation. Expression of Vav1 Y174F, which mimics its activated state, is a potent inducer of invadopodia formation through Cdc42, even in the absence of Src activation and phosphorylation of other Src substrates, such as cortactin. Thus, these data identify a novel mechanism by which Vav1 can enhance the tumorigenicity and invasive potential of cancer cells. These data suggest that Vav1 promotes the matrix-degrading processes underlying tumor cell migration and further, under conditions of ectopic Vav1 expression, that Vav1 is a central regulator and major driver of invasive matrix remodeling by pancreatic tumor cells.

Inhibition of formyl peptide-stimulated phospholipase D activation by Fal-002-2 via blockade of the Arf6, RhoA and protein kinase C signaling pathways in rat neutrophils

Three recently developed selective phospholipase D (PLD) inhibitors N-(2-(4-(2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-1-yl)piperidin-1-yl)ethyl)-2-naphthamide (VU0155056), (S)-N-(1-(4-(5-chloro-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-1-yl)piperidin-1-yl)propan-2-yl)-2-naphthamide (VU0155069), and N-(2-(4-oxo-1-phenyl-1,3,8-triazaspiro[4,5]decan-8-yl)ethyl)quinoline-3-carboxamide (VU0285655-1) inhibited O2 (•-) generation in formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP)-stimulated rat neutrophils. A novel 2-phenyl-4-quinolone compound 6-chloro-2-(2-chlorophenyl)-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxylate (Fal-002-2), which inhibited O2 (•-) generation, also reduced the fMLP- but not phorbol ester-stimulated PLD activity (IC50 16.0 ± 5.0 μM). Fal-002-2 attenuated the interaction of PLD1 with ADP-ribosylation factor (Arf) 6, Ras homology (Rho) A and protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms (α, βI, and βII), and also inhibited the membrane recruitment of Arf6 and RhoA in fMLP-stimulated neutrophils, but not in GTPγS-stimulated cell-free system. The cellular levels of GTP-bound Arf6 and GTP-bound RhoA were reduced by Fal-002-2. Fal-002-2 also attenuated the membrane recruitment of Rho-associated protein kinase 1, phosphorylation of myosin light chain 2 at Thr18/Ser19 and PLD1 at Thr147, and the interaction of Arf6 with both arfaptin 1 and phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase 1A. The association between RhoA and Vav, the interaction of Vav with both Lyn and Lck, the membrane recruitment of Vav, and the phosphorylation of Vav at Tyr174, but not Src family at Tyr416, were all attenuated by Fal-002-2 in fMLP-stimulated neutrophils. These results indicate that Fal-002-2 is not a direct PLD inhibitor, but the inhibition of fMLP-stimulated PLD activity by Fal-002-2, which partly accounts for its suppression of O2 (•-) generation, is attributable to the blockade of both Arf6 and RhoA activation and attenuation of the interaction of Arf6, RhoA and PKC isoforms with PLD1 in rat neutrophils.

Crosstalk between Bcl-2 family and Ras family small GTPases: potential cell fate regulation?

Cell fate regulation is a function of diverse cell signaling pathways that promote cell survival and or inhibit cell death execution. In this regard, the role of the Bcl-2 family in maintaining a tight balance between cell death and cell proliferation has been extensively studied. The conventional dogma links cell fate regulation by the Bcl-2 family to its effect on mitochondrial permeabilization and apoptosis amplification. However, recent evidence provide a novel mechanism for death regulation by the Bcl-2 family via modulating cellular redox metabolism. For example overexpression of Bcl-2 has been shown to contribute to a pro-oxidant intracellular milieu and down-regulation of cellular superoxide levels enhanced death sensitivity of Bcl-2 overexpressing cells. Interestingly, gene knockdown of the small GTPase Rac1 or pharmacological inhibition of its activity also reverted death phenotype in Bcl-2 expressing cells. This appears to be a function of an interaction between Bcl-2 and Rac1. Similar functional associations have been described between the Bcl-2 family and other members of the Ras superfamily. These interactions at the mitochondria provide novel opportunities for strategic therapeutic targeting of drug-resistant cancers.

Small G proteins and their regulators in cellular signalling

Small molecular weight GTPases (small G proteins) are essential in the transduction of signals from different plasma membrane receptors. Due to their endogenous GTP-hydrolyzing activity, these proteins function as time-dependent biological switches controlling diverse cellular functions including cell shape and migration, cell proliferation, gene transcription, vesicular transport and membrane-trafficking. This review focuses on endocrine diseases linked to small G proteins. We provide examples for the regulation of the activity of small G proteins by various mechanisms such as posttranslational modifications, guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) or guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitors (GDIs). Finally we summarize endocrine diseases where small G proteins or their regulatory proteins have been revealed as the cause.

Regulation of the DH-PH tandem of guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rho GTPases by phosphoinositides

Rho GTPases act as molecular switches central in cellular processes such as cytoskeleton dynamics, migration, cell proliferation, growth or survival. Their activation is tightly regulated downstream of cell surface receptors by Guanine nucleotide Exchange Factors (GEFs), that are responsible for the specificity, the accuracy, and the spatial restriction of Rho GTPases response to extracellular cues. Because there is about four time more RhoGEFs that Rho GTPases, and GEFs do not always show a strict specificity for GTPases, it is clear that their regulation depends on specific interactions with the subcellular environment. RhoGEFs bear a peculiar structure, highly conserved though evolution, consisting of a DH-PH tandem, the DH (Dbl homology) domain being responsible for the exchange activity. The function of the PH (Pleckstrin homology) domain known to bind phosphoinositides, however, remains elusive, and reports are in many cases rather confusing. This review summarizes data on the regulation of RhoGEFs activity through interaction of the PH-associated DH domain with phosphoinositides which are considered as critical players in the spatial organization of major signaling pathways.

Detection of Rho GEF and GAP activity through a sensitive split luciferase assay system

Rho GTPases regulate the assembly of cellular actin structures and are activated by GEFs (guanine-nucleotide-exchange factors) and rendered inactive by GAPs (GTPase-activating proteins). Using the Rho GTPases Cdc42, Rac1 and RhoA, and the GTPase-binding portions of the effector proteins p21-activated kinase and Rhophilin1, we have developed split luciferase assays for detecting both GEF and GAP regulation of these GTPases. The system relies on purifying split luciferase fusion proteins of the GTPases and effectors from bacteria, and our results show that the assays replicate GEF and GAP specificities at nanomolar concentrations for several previously characterized Rho family GEFs (Dbl, Vav2, Trio and Asef) and GAPs [p190, Cdc42 GAP and PTPL1-associated RhoGAP]. The assay detected activities associated with purified recombinant GEFs and GAPs, cell lysates expressing exogenous proteins, and immunoprecipitates of endogenous Vav1 and p190. The results demonstrate that the split luciferase system provides an effective sensitive alternative to radioactivity-based assays for detecting GTPase regulatory protein activities and is adaptable to a variety of assay conditions.

Inhibition and Termination of Physiological Responses by GTPase Activating Proteins

Physiological processes are strictly organized in space and time. However, in cell physiology research, more attention is given to the question of space rather than to time. To function as a signal, environmental changes must be restricted in time; they need not only be initiated but also terminated. In this review, we concentrate on the role of one specific protein family involved in biological signal termination. GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) accelerate the endogenously low GTP hydrolysis rate of monomeric guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (GNBPs), limiting thereby their prevalence in the active, GTP-bound form. We discuss cases where defective or excessive GAP activity of specific proteins causes significant alteration in the function of the nervous, endocrine, and hemopoietic systems, or contributes to development of infections and tumors. Biochemical and genetic data as well as observations from human pathology support the notion that GAPs represent vital elements in the spatiotemporal fine tuning of physiological processes.

TNF-stimulated MAP kinase activation mediated by a Rho family GTPase signaling pathway

The biological response to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) involves activation of MAP kinases. Here we report a mechanism of MAP kinase activation by TNF that is mediated by the Rho GTPase family members Rac/Cdc42. This signaling pathway requires Src-dependent activation of the guanosine nucleotide exchange factor Vav, activation of Rac/Cdc42, and the engagement of the Rac/Cdc42 interaction site (CRIB motif) on mixed-lineage protein kinases (MLKs). We show that this pathway is essential for full MAP kinase activation during the response to TNF. Moreover, this MLK pathway contributes to inflammation in vivo.

Essential role for vav Guanine nucleotide exchange factors in brain-derived neurotrophic factor-induced dendritic spine growth and synapse plasticity

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its cognate receptor, TrkB, regulate a wide range of cellular processes, including dendritic spine formation and functional synapse plasticity. However, the signaling mechanisms that link BDNF-activated TrkB to F-actin remodeling enzymes and dendritic spine morphological plasticity remain poorly understood. We report here that BDNF/TrkB signaling in neurons activates the Vav family of Rac/RhoA guanine nucleotide exchange factors through a novel TrkB-dependent mechanism. We find that Vav is required for BDNF-stimulated Rac-GTP production in cortical and hippocampal neurons. Vav is partially enriched at excitatory synapses in the postnatal hippocampus but does not appear to be required for normal dendritic spine density. Rather, we observe significant reductions in both BDNF-induced, rapid, dendritic spine head growth and in CA3-CA1 theta burst-stimulated long-term potentiation in Vav-deficient mouse hippocampal slices, suggesting that Vav-dependent regulation of dendritic spine morphological plasticity facilitates normal functional synapse plasticity.

Age-related defects in the cytoskeleton signaling pathways of CD4 T cells

It has been postulated that the cytoskeleton controls many aspects of T cell function, including activation, proliferation and apoptosis. Recent advances in our understanding of F-actin polymerization and the Ezrin-Radixin-Moesin (ERM) family of cytoskeleton signal proteins have provided new insights into immunological synapse formation during T cell activation. During aging there is a significant decline of T cell function largely attributable to declines in activation of CD4 T cells and defects in the formation of the immunological synapse. Here we discuss recent progress in the understanding of how aging alters F-actin and ERM proteins in mouse CD4 T cells, and the implications of these changes for the T cell activation process.

Guanine nucleotide exchange factors for RhoGTPases: good therapeutic targets for cancer therapy?

Rho guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) are a family of small proteins which function as molecular switches in a variety of signaling pathways following stimulation of cell surface receptors. RhoGTPases regulate numerous cellular processes including cytoskeleton organization, gene transcription, cell proliferation, migration, growth and cell survival. Because of their central role in regulating processes that are dysregulated in cancer, it seems reasonable that defects in the RhoGTPase pathway may be involved in the development of cancer. RhoGTPase activity is regulated by a number of protein families: guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), GTPase activating proteins (GAPs) and guanine nucleotide-dissociation inhibitors (GDIs). This review discusses the participation of RhoGTPases and their regulators, especially GEFs in human cancers. In particular, we focus on the involvement of the RhoGTPase GEF, Vav1, a hematopoietic specific signal transducer which is involved in human neuroblastoma, pancreatic ductal carcinoma and lung cancer. Finally, we summarize recent advances in the design and application of a number of molecules that specifically target individual RhoGTPases or their regulators or effectors, and discuss their potential for cancer therapy.

Signaling mechanisms of inhibition of phospholipase D activation by CHS-111 in formyl peptide-stimulated neutrophils

A selective phospholipase D (PLD) inhibitor 5-fluoro-2-indolyl des-chlorohalopemide (FIPI) inhibited the O(2)(-) generation and cell migration but not degranulation in formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP)-stimulated rat neutrophils. A novel benzyl indazole compound 2-benzyl-3-(4-hydroxymethylphenyl)indazole (CHS-111), which inhibited O(2)(-) generation and cell migration, also reduced the fMLP- but not phorbol ester-stimulated PLD activity (IC(50) 3.9±1.2μM). CHS-111 inhibited the interaction of PLD1 with ADP-ribosylation factor (Arf) 6 and Ras homology (Rho) A, and reduced the membrane recruitment of RhoA in fMLP-stimulated cells but not in GTPγS-stimulated cell-free system. CHS-111 reduced the cellular levels of GTP-bound RhoA, membrane recruitment of Rho-associated protein kinase 1 and the downstream myosin light chain 2 phosphorylation, and attenuated the interaction between phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase (PIP5K) and Arf6, whereas it only slightly inhibited the guanine nucleotide exchange activity of human Dbs (DH/PH) protein and did not affect the arfaptin binding to Arf6. CHS-111 inhibited the interaction of RhoA with Vav, the membrane association and the phosphorylation of Vav. CHS-111 had no effect on the phosphorylation of Src family kinases (SFK) but attenuated the interaction of Vav with Lck, Hck, Fgr and Lyn. CHS-111 also inhibited the interaction of PLD1 with protein kinase C (PKC) α, βI and βII isoenzymes, and the phosphorylation of PLD1. These results indicate that inhibition of fMLP-stimulated PLD activity by CHS-111 is attributable to the blockade of RhoA activation via the interference with SFK-mediated Vav activation, attenuation of the interaction of Arf6 with PLD1 and PIP5K, and the activation of Ca(2+)-dependent PKC in rat neutrophils.

Tyrosine residues at the carboxyl terminus of Vav1 play an important role in regulation of its biological activity

The guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) Vav1 is an essential signal transducer protein in the hematopoietic system, where it is expressed physiologically. It is also involved in several human malignancies. Tyrosine phosphorylation at the Vav1 amino terminus plays a central role in regulating its activity; however, the role of carboxyl terminal tyrosine residues is unknown. We found that mutation of either Tyr-826 (Y826F) or Tyr-841 (Y841F) to phenylalanine led to loss of Vav1 GEF activity. When these Vav1 mutants were ectopically expressed in pancreatic cancer cells lacking Vav1, they failed to induce growth in agar, indicating loss of transforming potential. Furthermore, although Y841F had no effect on Vav1-stimulated nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) activity, Y826F doubled NFAT activity when compared with Vav1, suggesting that Tyr-826 mediates an autoinhibitory effect on NFAT activity. SH2 profiling revealed that Shc, Csk, Abl, and Sap associate with Tyr-826, whereas SH2-B, Src, Brk, GTPase-activating protein, and phospholipase C-gamma associate with Tyr-841. Although the mutations in the Tyr-826 and Tyr-841 did not affect the binding of the carboxyl SH3 of Vav1 to other proteins, binding to several of the proteins identified by the SH2 profiling was lost. Of interest is Csk, which associates with wild-type Vav1 and Y841F, yet it fails to associate with Y826F, suggesting that loss of binding between Y826F and Csk might relieve an autoinhibitory effect, leading to increased NFAT. Our data indicate that GEF activity is critical for the function of Vav1 as a transforming protein but not for NFAT stimulation. The association of Vav1 with other proteins, detected by SH2 profiling, might affect other Vav1-dependent activities, such as NFAT stimulation.

Rho family GTPases and their regulators in lymphocytes

Rho family GTPases, and the proteins that regulate them, have important roles in many cellular processes, including cell division, survival, migration and adhesion. Although most of our understanding of these proteins has come from studies using cell lines, more recent gene targeting studies in mice are providing insights into the in vivo function of these proteins. Here we review recent progress revealing crucial roles for these proteins in lymphocyte development, activation, differentiation and migration. The emerging picture shows that Rho family GTPases transduce signals from receptors for antigens, chemokines and cytokines, as well as adhesion molecules and pattern recognition receptors, and that they function as focal points for crosstalk between different signalling pathways.

Age-related changes in lck-Vav signaling pathways in mouse CD4 T cells

Activation of lck-fyn kinases during T cell receptor signaling leads to Vav phosphorylation, activation of downstream targets including Rac1, and a transient decline in ezrin and moesin phosphorylation. We have shown that age increases Rac1 activity and lowers ezrin and moesin phosphorylation in resting mouse CD4 cells, changes that could be the results of alterations in lck-Vav signaling. Analysis of Vav in CD4 cells from old mice shows increases in the phosphorylation of two key regulatory residues, Tyr160 and Tyr174, suggesting enhancement of Vav GTPase activity. In addition, analysis of lck status also shows age-related increases in phosphorylation of two key residues, Tyr394 and Tyr505, which have opposite effects on lck function. These changes in lck-Vav signals in resting CD4 cells may contribute in turn to age-related increases in Rac1 activity and declines in phosphorylation of cytoskeletal proteins including Ezrin and Moesin.

T cell receptor-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation of beta2-chimaerin modulates its Rac-GAP function in T cells

The actin cytoskeleton has an important role in the organization and function of the immune synapse during antigen recognition. Dynamic rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton in response to T cell receptor (TCR) triggering requires the coordinated activation of Rho family GTPases that cycle between active and inactive conformations. This is controlled by GTPase-activating proteins (GAP), which regulate inactivation of Rho GTPases, and guanine exchange factors, which mediate their activation. Whereas much attention has centered on guanine exchange factors for Rho GTPases in T cell activation, the identity and functional roles of the GAP in this process are largely unknown. We previously reported beta2-chimaerin as a diacylglycerol-regulated Rac-GAP that is expressed in T cells. We now demonstrate Lck-dependent phosphorylation of beta2-chimaerin in response to TCR triggering. We identify Tyr-153 as the Lck-dependent phosphorylation residue and show that its phosphorylation negatively regulates membrane stabilization of beta2-chimaerin, decreasing its GAP activity to Rac. This study establishes the existence of TCR-dependent regulation of beta2-chimaerin and identifies a novel mechanism for its inactivation.

Cbl enforces an SLP76-dependent signaling pathway for T cell differentiation

A signaling pathway involving ZAP-70, LAT, and SLP76 has been regarded as essential for receptor-driven T cell development and activation. Consistent with this model, mice deficient in SLP76 have a complete block at the double negative 3 stage of T cell development. Recently, however, it has been reported that inactivation of Cbl, a ubiquitin-protein isopeptide ligase, partially rescues T cell development in SLP76-deficient mice. To probe the influence of Cbl on domain-specific SLP76 functions, we reconstituted SLP76^-/- Cbl^-/- mice with Slp76 transgenes bearing mutations in each of three functional domains of SLP76 as follows: Y3F, in which the amino-terminal tyrosine residues of SLP76 were mutated, eliminating sites of SLP76 interaction with Vav, Nck, and Itk; Δ20, in which 20 amino acids in the proline-rich region of SLP76 were deleted, removing a binding site for Gads; and RK, in which arginine 448 of SLP76 was replaced by lysine, abolishing function of the Src homology 2 domain. Although each of these transgenes has been shown to partially rescue T cell development in SLP76^-/- mice, we report here that Cbl inactivation completely reverses the severe double negative 3 developmental block that occurs in SLP76-deficient mice expressing the Y3F transgene (Y3F mice) and partially rescues the defect in positive selection in T cell receptor transgenic Y3F mice, but in contrast fails to rescue thymic development of SLP76-deficient mice expressing the Δ20 or RK transgene. Rescue in SLP76^-/-Cbl^-/-Y3F double-positive thymocytes is associated with enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation of signaling molecules, including Lck, Vav, PLC-γ1, and ERKs, but not Itk, in response to T cell receptor stimulation. Thus, our data demonstrate that Cbl suppresses activation of a bypass signaling pathway and thereby enforces SLP76 dependence of early T cell development.

Critical role of Lck in L-selectin signaling induced by sulfatides engagement

Recruitment of leukocytes onto inflamed tissues is an important physiological event, in which L-selectin plays an essential role in initial leukocyte capture and at the same time, triggers cell signaling. Lck is a member of the Src family of protein tyrosine kinases and is critical for T cell activation triggered by receptor ligation. Here, we demonstrated that Lck was associated directly with and phosphorylated the L-selectin cytoplasmic tail upon L-selectin engagement with sulfatides. Through the direct interaction with ZAP-70 and c-Abl via its Src homology 2 (SH2) and SH3 domains, Lck organized a signaling complex at the cytoplasmic tail of L-selectin. In the cells with Lck knockdown by small interfering RNA treatment, L-selectin signaling was suppressed dramatically, as indicated by reduced phosphorylation of c-Abl and ZAP-70. Re-expression of wild-type or constitutively active but not kinase-dead murine Lck rescued the phosphorylation completely, but the SH2 domain mutant or the SH3/SH2 double mutant of murine Lck had no effect. These results suggest that Lck plays a critical role in L-selectin signaling upon sulfatides stimulation.

ERK5 promotes Src-induced podosome formation by limiting Rho activation

Increased Src activity, often associated with tumorigenesis, leads to the formation of invasive adhesions termed podosomes. Podosome formation requires the function of Rho family guanosine triphosphatases and reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. In addition, Src induces changes in gene expression required for transformation, in part by activating mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. We sought to determine whether MAPK signaling regulates podosome formation. Unlike extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), ERK5 is constitutively activated in Src-transformed fibroblasts. ERK5-deficient cells expressing v-Src exhibited increased RhoA activation and signaling, which lead to cellular retraction and an inability to form podosomes or induce invasion. Addition of the Rho-kinase inhibitor Y27632 to ERK5-deficient cells expressing v-Src led to cellular extension and restored podosome formation. In Src-transformed cells, ERK5 induced the expression of a Rho GTPase-activating protein (RhoGAP), RhoGAP7/DLC-1, via activation of the transcription factor myocyte enhancing factor 2C, and RhoGAP7 expression restored podosome formation in ERK5-deficient cells. We conclude that ERK5 promotes Src-induced podosome formation by inducing RhoGAP7 and thereby limiting Rho activation.

Crucial structural role for the PH and C1 domains of the Vav1 exchange factor

The Vav family of proteins are guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) for the Rho family of GTPases, which regulate various cellular functions, including T-cell activation. They contain a catalytic Dbl homology (DH) domain that is invariably followed by a pleckstrin homology (PH) domain, which is often required for catalytic activity. Vav proteins are the first GEFs for which an additional C1 domain is required for full biological activity. Here, we present the structure of a Vav1 fragment comprising the DH-PH-C1 domains bound to Rac1. This structure shows that the PH and C1 domains form a single structural unit that packs against the carboxy-terminal helix of the DH domain to stabilize its conformation and to promote nucleotide exchange. In contrast to previous reports, this structure shows that there are no direct contacts between the GTPase and C1 domain but instead suggests new mechanisms for the regulation of Vav1 activity.

Structural basis of guanine nucleotide exchange mediated by the T-cell essential Vav1

The guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) Vav1 plays an important role in T-cell activation and tumorigenesis. In the GEF superfamily, Vav1 has the ability to interact with multiple families of Rho GTPases. The structure of the Vav1 DH-PH-CRD/Rac1 complex to 2.6 A resolution reveals a unique intramolecular network of contacts between the Vav1 cysteine-rich domain (CRD) and the C-terminal helix of the Vav1 Dbl homology (DH) domain. These unique interactions stabilize the Vav1 DH domain for its intimate association with the Switch II region of Rac1 that is critical for the displacement of the guanine nucleotide. Small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) studies support this domain arrangement for the complex in solution. Further, mutational analyses confirms that the atypical CRD is critical for maintaining both optimal guanine nucleotide exchange activity and broader specificity of Vav family GEFs. Taken together, the data outline the detailed nature of Vav1's ability to contact a range of Rho GTPases using a novel protein-protein interaction network.

The RhoGEF domain of p210 Bcr-Abl activates RhoA and is required for transformation

The BCR-ABL oncogene encodes an in-frame fusion protein containing N-terminal sequences derived from Bcr and C-terminal sequences derived from Abl. Bcr contains a centrally located Rho-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor (RhoGEF) domain that is retained within p210 Bcr-Abl. Although this domain is subject to autoinhibition in the context of Bcr, here we show that it is constitutively activated in p210 Bcr-Abl. p210 Bcr-Abl can stimulate RhoA activation independently of its tyrosine kinase activity, and mutations within the RhoGEF domain that are predicted to eliminate RhoGEF activity inhibit RhoA activation. The RhoGEF mutant of p210 Bcr-Abl does not affect the tyrosine kinase activity of the molecule, nor the ability of p210 Bcr-Abl to interact with XPB through the RhoGEF domain. Despite retaining normal levels of tyrosine kinase activity, the RhoGEF mutant of p210 Bcr-Abl is impaired in transforming activity as measured by anchorage-independent growth. However, the mutant is still able to confer the phenotype of growth factor independence in myeloid cells, suggesting that some, but not all parameters of p210 Bcr-Abl transformation, are dependent upon a catalytically active RhoGEF domain. Collectively, these observations identify a gain-of-function activity attributable to the RhoGEF domain of p210 Bcr-Abl that is required to support the transformed phenotype.

Flesh and blood: The story of Vav1, a gene that signals in hematopoietic cells but can be transforming in human malignancies

Cancer results from the interaction of multiple aberrations including activation of dominant oncogenes and upregulation of signal transduction pathways. Identification of the genes involved in malignant transformation is a pre-requisite for understanding cancer and improving its diagnosis and treatment. Quite a few of the genes that have been implicated in cancer are mutant or aberrantly expressed versions of genes that are important mediators of the normal growth that occurs during development. An important example of this is Vav1, a cytoplasmic signal transducer protein initially identified as an oncogene. Physiological expression of Vav1 is restricted to the hematopoietic system, where its best-known function is as a GDP/GTP nucleotide exchange factor for Rho/Rac GTPases, an activity strictly controlled by tyrosine phosphorylation. Vav1 was shown to regulate cytoskeletal rearrangement during activation of hematopoietic cells. Vav1 can also mediate other cellular functions including activation of the JNK, ERK, Ras, NF-kB, and NFAT pathways, in addition to association with numerous adapter proteins such as Shc, NCK, SLP-76, GRB2, and Crk. Although the oncogenic form of Vav1 has not been detected in clinical human tumors, its wild-type form has recently been implicated in mammalian malignancies such as neuroblastoma, melanoma, pancreatic tumors and B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. This review addresses the physiological function of wild-type Vav1, its mode of activation as an oncogene, and its emerging role as a transforming protein in human cancer.

Strongly reduced alloreactivity and long-term survival times of cardiac allografts in Vav1- and Vav1/Vav2-knockout mice

Vav proteins mediate T- and B-cell activation by functioning as GTP/GDP exchange factors for small GTPases. We have studied the role of Vav1 and Vav2 in allogeneic T-cell activation, antibody responses and allograft rejection. Alloantigen-induced proliferation of T cells from Vav1- and Vav1/Vav2-knockout (ko) mice was decreased by >90% in a mixed lymphocyte reaction. In whole-blood cultures, Vav deficiency led to markedly impaired T- and B-cell activation. Expansion of Vav1- or Vav1/Vav2-ko T cells (C57BL/6) was reduced after transfer into severe combined immune deficiency/beige recipient mice (BALB/c). After priming with 2,4-dinitrophenyl (DNP)-keyhole limpet hemocyanin, T-cell-dependent anti-DNP IgM and IgG antibody levels were normal in Vav1-ko mice but undetectable in Vav1/Vav2-ko mice. The median survival time of BALB/c cardiac allografts transplanted into C57BL/6 Vav1-ko mice (n = 13) or Vav1/Vav2-ko mice (n = 5) was >100 and >77 days, compared with 8-9 days in the corresponding wild-type mice. Vav1/Vav2-ko mice with <100 days graft survival developed bacterial skin infections and were prematurely killed with beating cardiac allograft. Long-term surviving transplants of single and double ko mice showed mild cellular interstitial rejection and mild to severe vascular remodeling. In conclusion, our studies show for the first time that the absence of Vav1 and Vav1/Vav2 in ko mice strongly reduces alloreactivity and results in long-term allograft survival, whereas antibody responses were only affected in Vav1/Vav2 ko mice.

An activating mutation in sos-1 identifies its Dbl domain as a critical inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor pathway during Caenorhabditis elegans vulval development

Proper regulation of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-Ras-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways is critical for normal development and the prevention of cancer. SOS is a dual-function guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that catalyzes exchange on Ras and Rac. Although the physiologic role of SOS and its CDC25 domain in RTK-mediated Ras activation is well established, the in vivo function of its Dbl Rac GEF domain is less clear. We have identified a novel gain-of-function missense mutation in the Dbl domain of Caenorhabditis elegans SOS-1 that promotes epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling in vivo. Our data indicate that a major developmental function of the Dbl domain is to inhibit EGF-dependent MAPK activation. The amount of inhibition conferred by the Dbl domain is equal to that of established trans-acting inhibitors of the EGFR pathway, including c-Cbl and RasGAP, and more than that of MAPK phosphatase. In conjunction with molecular modeling, our data suggest that the C. elegans mutation, as well as an equivalent mutation in human SOS1, activates the MAPK pathway by disrupting an autoinhibitory function of the Dbl domain on Ras activation. Our work suggests that functionally similar point mutations in humans could directly contribute to disease.

Auto-inhibition of the Dbl family protein Tim by an N-terminal helical motif

Dbl-related oncoproteins are guanine nucleotide exchange factors specific for Rho-family GTPases and typically possess tandem Dbl homology (DH) and pleckstrin homology domains that act in concert to catalyze exchange. Because the ability of many Dbl-family proteins to catalyze exchange is constitutively activated by truncations N-terminal to their DH domains, it has been proposed that the activity of Dbl-family proteins is regulated by auto-inhibition. However, the exact mechanisms of regulation of Dbl-family proteins remain poorly understood. Here we show that the Dbl-family protein, Tim, is auto-inhibited by a short, helical motif immediately N-terminal to its DH domain, which directly occludes the catalytic surface of the DH domain to prevent GTPase activation. Similar to the distantly related Vav isozymes, auto-inhibition of Tim is relieved by truncation, mutation, or phosphorylation of the auto-inhibitory helix. A peptide comprising the helical motif inhibits the exchange activity of Tim in vitro. Furthermore, substitutions within the most highly conserved surface of the DH domain designed to disrupt interactions with the auto-inhibitory helix also activate the exchange process.