Cofilin-Membrane Interactions: Electrostatic Effects in Phosphoinositide Lipid Binding

The actin cytoskeleton interacts with the cell membrane primarily through the indirect interactions of actin-binding proteins such as cofilin-1. The molecular mechanisms underlying the specific interactions of cofilin-1 with membrane lipids are still unclear. Here, we performed coarse-grain molecular dynamics simulations of cofilin-1 with complex lipid bilayers to analyze the specificity of protein-lipid interactions. We observed the maximal interactions with phosphoinositide (PIP) lipids, especially PIP₂ and PIP₃ lipids. A good match was observed between the residues predicted to interact and previous experimental studies. The clustering of PIP lipids around the membrane bound protein leads to an overall lipid demixing and gives rise to persistent membrane curvature. Further, through a series of control simulations, we observe that both electrostatics and geometry are critical for specificity of lipid binding. Our current study is a step towards understanding the physico-chemical basis of cofilin-PIP lipid interactions.

The Role of ADF/Cofilin in Synaptic Physiology and Alzheimer's Disease

Actin-depolymerization factor (ADF)/cofilin, a family of actin-binding proteins, are critical for the regulation of actin reorganization in response to various signals. Accumulating evidence indicates that ADF/cofilin also play important roles in neuronal structure and function, including long-term potentiation and depression. These are the most extensively studied forms of long-lasting synaptic plasticity and are widely regarded as cellular mechanisms underlying learning and memory. ADF/cofilin regulate synaptic function through their effects on dendritic spines and the trafficking of glutamate receptors, the principal mediator of excitatory synaptic transmission in vertebrates. Regulation of ADF/cofilin involves various signaling pathways converging on LIM domain kinases and slingshot phosphatases, which phosphorylate/inactivate and dephosphorylate/activate ADF/cofilin, respectively. Actin-depolymerization factor/cofilin activity is also regulated by other actin-binding proteins, activity-dependent subcellular distribution and protein translation. Abnormalities in ADF/cofilin have been associated with several neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, investigating the roles of ADF/cofilin in the brain is not only important for understanding the fundamental processes governing neuronal structure and function, but also may provide potential therapeutic strategies to treat brain disorders.

Dysregulation of cofilin-1 activity-the missing link between herpes simplex virus type-1 infection and Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial disease triggered by environmental factors in combination with genetic predisposition. Infectious agents, in particular herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), are gradually being recognised as important factors affecting the development of AD. However, the mechanism linking HSV-1 and AD remains unknown. Of note, HSV-1 manipulates the activity of cofilin-1 to ensure their efficient infection in neuron cells. Cofilin-1, the main regulator of actin cytoskeleton reorganization, is implicating for the plastic of dendritic spines and axon regeneration of neuronal cells. Moreover, dysfunction of cofilin-1 is observed in most AD patients, as well as in mice with AD and ageing. Further, inhibition of cofilin-1 activity ameliorates the host cognitive impairment in an animal model of AD. Together, dysregulation of cofilin-1 led by HSV-1 infection is a potential link between HSV-1 and AD. Herein, we critically summarize the role of cofilin-1-mediated actin dynamics in both HSV-1 infection and AD, respectively. We also propose several hypotheses regarding the connecting roles of cofilin-1 dysregulation in HSV-1 infection and AD. Our review provides a foundation for future studies targeting individuals carrying HSV-1 in combination with cofilin-1 to promote a more individualised approach for treatment and prevention of AD.