1
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He X, Brakebusch C. Regulation of Precise DNA Repair by Nuclear Actin Polymerization: A Chance for Improving Gene Therapy? Cells 2024; 13:1093. [PMID: 38994946 PMCID: PMC11240418 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Although more difficult to detect than in the cytoplasm, it is now clear that actin polymerization occurs in the nucleus and that it plays a role in the specific processes of the nucleus such as transcription, replication, and DNA repair. A number of studies suggest that nuclear actin polymerization is promoting precise DNA repair by homologous recombination, which could potentially be of help for precise genome editing and gene therapy. This review summarizes the findings and describes the challenges and chances in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cord Brakebusch
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark;
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2
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Wollscheid HP, Ulrich HD. Chromatin meets the cytoskeleton: the importance of nuclear actin dynamics and associated motors for genome stability. DNA Repair (Amst) 2023; 131:103571. [PMID: 37738698 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2023.103571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
The actin cytoskeleton is of fundamental importance for numerous cellular processes, including intracellular transport, cell plasticity, and cell migration. However, functions of filamentous actin (F-actin) in the nucleus remain understudied due to the comparatively low abundance of nuclear actin and the resulting experimental limitations to its visualization. Owing to recent technological advances such as super-resolution microscopy and the development of nuclear-specific actin probes, essential roles of the actin cytoskeleton in the context of genome maintenance are now emerging. In addition to the contributions of monomeric actin as a component of multiple important nuclear protein complexes, nuclear actin has been found to undergo polymerization in response to DNA damage and DNA replication stress. Consequently, nuclear F-actin plays important roles in the regulation of intra-nuclear mobility of repair and replication foci as well as the maintenance of nuclear shape, two important aspects of efficient stress tolerance. Beyond actin itself, there is accumulating evidence for the participation of multiple actin-binding proteins (ABPs) in the surveillance of genome integrity, including nucleation factors and motor proteins of the myosin family. Here we summarize recent findings highlighting the importance of actin cytoskeletal factors within the nucleus in key genome maintenance pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Peter Wollscheid
- Institute of Molecular Biology gGmbH (IMB), Ackermannweg 4, Mainz D - 55128, Germany.
| | - Helle D Ulrich
- Institute of Molecular Biology gGmbH (IMB), Ackermannweg 4, Mainz D - 55128, Germany.
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3
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Sun Y, Li M, Geng J, Meng S, Tu R, Zhuang Y, Sun M, Rui M, Ou M, Xing G, Johnson TK, Xie W. Neuroligin 2 governs synaptic morphology and function through RACK1-cofilin signaling in Drosophila. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1056. [PMID: 37853189 PMCID: PMC10584876 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05428-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroligins are transmembrane cell adhesion proteins well-known for their genetic links to autism spectrum disorders. Neuroligins can function by regulating the actin cytoskeleton, however the factors and mechanisms involved are still largely unknown. Here, using the Drosophila neuromuscular junction as a model, we reveal that F-Actin assembly at the Drosophila NMJ is controlled through Cofilin signaling mediated by an interaction between DNlg2 and RACK1, factors not previously known to work together. The deletion of DNlg2 displays disrupted RACK1-Cofilin signaling pathway with diminished actin cytoskeleton proteo-stasis at the terminal of the NMJ, aberrant NMJ structure, reduced synaptic transmission, and abnormal locomotion at the third-instar larval stage. Overexpression of wildtype and activated Cofilin in muscles are sufficient to rescue the morphological and physiological defects in dnlg2 mutants, while inactivated Cofilin is not. Since the DNlg2 paralog DNlg1 is known to regulate F-actin assembly mainly via a specific interaction with WAVE complex, our present work suggests that the orchestration of F-actin by Neuroligins is a diverse and complex process critical for neural connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Sun
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Moyi Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China.
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
| | - Junhua Geng
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Sibie Meng
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Renjun Tu
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Yan Zhuang
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Mingkuan Sun
- The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Menglong Rui
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Mengzhu Ou
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Guangling Xing
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Travis K Johnson
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, and La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Wei Xie
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China.
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
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4
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Ostalé CM, Vega-Cuesta P, González T, López-Varea A, de Celis JF. RNAi screen in the Drosophila wing of genes encoding proteins related to cytoskeleton organization and cell division. Dev Biol 2023; 498:61-76. [PMID: 37015290 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2023.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Cell division and cytoskeleton organization are fundamental processes participating in the development of Drosophila imaginal discs. In this manuscript we describe the phenotypes in the adult fly wing generated by knockdowns of 85% of Drosophila genes encoding proteins likely related to the regulation of cell division and cytoskeleton organization. We also compile a molecular classification of these proteins into classes that describe their expected or known main biochemical characteristics, as well as mRNA expression in the wing disc and likely protein subcellular localization for a subset of these genes. Finally, we analyze in more detail one protein family of cytoskeleton genes (Arp2/3 complex), and define the consequences of interfering with cell division for wing growth and patterning.
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5
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Pulianmackal AJ, Kanakousaki K, Flegel KA, Grushko OG, Gourley E, Rozich E, Buttitta LA. Misregulation of the Nucleoporins 98 and 96 lead to defects in protein synthesis that promote hallmarks of tumorigenesis. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:274202. [PMID: 35107131 PMCID: PMC8938402 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleoporin 98KD (Nup98) is a promiscuous translocation partner in hematological malignancies. Most disease models of Nup98 translocations involve ectopic expression of the fusion protein under study, leaving the endogenous Nup98 loci unperturbed. Overlooked in these approaches is the loss of one copy of normal Nup98 in addition to the loss of Nup96 – a second Nucleoporin encoded within the same mRNA and reading frame as Nup98 – in translocations. Nup98 and Nup96 are also mutated in a number of other cancers, suggesting that their disruption is not limited to blood cancers. We found that reducing Nup98-96 function in Drosophila melanogaster (in which the Nup98-96 shared mRNA and reading frame is conserved) de-regulates the cell cycle. We found evidence of overproliferation in tissues with reduced Nup98-96, counteracted by elevated apoptosis and aberrant signaling associated with chronic wounding. Reducing Nup98-96 function led to defects in protein synthesis that triggered JNK signaling and contributed to hallmarks of tumorigenesis when apoptosis was inhibited. We suggest that partial loss of Nup98-96 function in translocations could de-regulate protein synthesis, leading to signaling that cooperates with other mutations to promote tumorigenesis. Editor's choice: Compromising Nucleoporins 98 and 96 leads to defects in protein synthesis and stress signaling via JNK that triggers compensatory and apoptosis-induced proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajai J Pulianmackal
- Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Kiriaki Kanakousaki
- Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Kerry A Flegel
- Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Olga G Grushko
- Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ella Gourley
- Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Emily Rozich
- Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Laura A Buttitta
- Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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6
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Bamburg JR, Minamide LS, Wiggan O, Tahtamouni LH, Kuhn TB. Cofilin and Actin Dynamics: Multiple Modes of Regulation and Their Impacts in Neuronal Development and Degeneration. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102726. [PMID: 34685706 PMCID: PMC8534876 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteins of the actin depolymerizing factor (ADF)/cofilin family are ubiquitous among eukaryotes and are essential regulators of actin dynamics and function. Mammalian neurons express cofilin-1 as the major isoform, but ADF and cofilin-2 are also expressed. All isoforms bind preferentially and cooperatively along ADP-subunits in F-actin, affecting the filament helical rotation, and when either alone or when enhanced by other proteins, promotes filament severing and subunit turnover. Although self-regulating cofilin-mediated actin dynamics can drive motility without post-translational regulation, cells utilize many mechanisms to locally control cofilin, including cooperation/competition with other proteins. Newly identified post-translational modifications function with or are independent from the well-established phosphorylation of serine 3 and provide unexplored avenues for isoform specific regulation. Cofilin modulates actin transport and function in the nucleus as well as actin organization associated with mitochondrial fission and mitophagy. Under neuronal stress conditions, cofilin-saturated F-actin fragments can undergo oxidative cross-linking and bundle together to form cofilin-actin rods. Rods form in abundance within neurons around brain ischemic lesions and can be rapidly induced in neurites of most hippocampal and cortical neurons through energy depletion or glutamate-induced excitotoxicity. In ~20% of rodent hippocampal neurons, rods form more slowly in a receptor-mediated process triggered by factors intimately connected to disease-related dementias, e.g., amyloid-β in Alzheimer’s disease. This rod-inducing pathway requires a cellular prion protein, NADPH oxidase, and G-protein coupled receptors, e.g., CXCR4 and CCR5. Here, we will review many aspects of cofilin regulation and its contribution to synaptic loss and pathology of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R. Bamburg
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (L.S.M.); (O.W.); (L.H.T.); (T.B.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-970-988-9120; Fax: +1-970-491-0494
| | - Laurie S. Minamide
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (L.S.M.); (O.W.); (L.H.T.); (T.B.K.)
| | - O’Neil Wiggan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (L.S.M.); (O.W.); (L.H.T.); (T.B.K.)
| | - Lubna H. Tahtamouni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (L.S.M.); (O.W.); (L.H.T.); (T.B.K.)
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, The Hashemite University, Zarqa 13115, Jordan
| | - Thomas B. Kuhn
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (L.S.M.); (O.W.); (L.H.T.); (T.B.K.)
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
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7
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Ulferts S, Prajapati B, Grosse R, Vartiainen MK. Emerging Properties and Functions of Actin and Actin Filaments Inside the Nucleus. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2021; 13:cshperspect.a040121. [PMID: 33288541 PMCID: PMC7919393 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a040121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have provided considerable insights into the dynamic nature of the cell nucleus, which is constantly reorganizing its genome, controlling its size and shape, as well as spatiotemporally orchestrating chromatin remodeling and transcription. Remarkably, it has become clear that the ancient and highly conserved cytoskeletal protein actin plays a crucial part in these processes. However, the underlying mechanisms, regulations, and properties of actin functions inside the nucleus are still not well understood. Here we summarize the diverse and distinct roles of monomeric and filamentous actin as well as the emerging roles for actin dynamics inside the nuclear compartment for genome organization and nuclear architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svenja Ulferts
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology I, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bina Prajapati
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute for Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Robert Grosse
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology I, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany,Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies (CIBSS), 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maria K. Vartiainen
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute for Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
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8
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Hasan MM, Teixeira JE, Lam YW, Huston CD. Coactosin Phosphorylation Controls Entamoeba histolytica Cell Membrane Protrusions and Cell Motility. mBio 2020; 11:e00660-20. [PMID: 32753489 PMCID: PMC7407079 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00660-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasion of the colon wall by Entamoeba histolytica during amoebic dysentery entails migration of trophozoites through tissue layers that are rich in extracellular matrix. Transcriptional silencing of the E. histolytica surface metalloprotease EhMSP-1 produces hyperadherent less-motile trophozoites that are deficient in forming invadosomes. Reversible protein phosphorylation is often implicated in regulation of cell motility and invadosome formation. To identify such intermediaries of the EhMSP-1-silenced phenotype, here we compared the phosphoproteomes of EhMSP-1-silenced and vector control trophozoites by using quantitative tandem mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Six proteins were found to be differentially phosphorylated in EhMSP-1-silenced and control cells, including EhCoactosin, a member of the ADF/cofilin family of actin-binding proteins, which was more frequently phosphorylated at serine 147. Regulated overexpression of wild-type, phosphomimetic, and nonphosphorylatable EhCoactosin variants was used to test if phosphorylation functions in control of E. histolytica actin dynamics. Each of the overexpressed proteins colocalized with F-actin during E. histolytica phagocytosis. Nonetheless, trophozoites overexpressing an EhCoactosin phosphomimetic mutant formed more and poorly coordinated cell membrane protrusions compared to those in control or cells expressing a nonphosphorylatable mutant, while trophozoites overexpressing nonphosphorylatable EhCoactosin were significantly more motile within a model of mammalian extracellular matrix. Therefore, although EhCoactosin's actin-binding ability appeared unaffected by phosphorylation, EhCoactosin phosphorylation helps to regulate amoebic motility. These data help to understand the mechanisms underlying altered adherence and motility in EhMSP-1-silenced trophozoites and lay the groundwork for identifying kinases and phosphatases critical for control of amoebic invasiveness.IMPORTANCE Invasive amoebiasis, caused by the intestinal parasite Entamoeba histolytica, causes life-threatening diarrhea and liver abscesses, but, for unknown reasons, only approximately 10% of E. histolytica infections become symptomatic. A key requirement of invasion is the ability of the parasite to migrate through tissue layers. Here, we systematically looked for differences in protein phosphorylation between control parasites and a previously identified hyperadherent E. histolytica cell line that has reduced motility. We identified EhCoactosin, an actin-binding protein not previously known to be phosphoregulated, as one of the differentially phosphorylated proteins in E. histolytica and demonstrated that EhCoactosin phosphorylation functions in control of cell membrane dynamics and amoebic motility. This and the additional differentially phosphorylated proteins reported lay the groundwork for identifying kinases and phosphatases that regulate tissue invasiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad M Hasan
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Cellular, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - José E Teixeira
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Ying-Wai Lam
- Proteomics Facility, Vermont Genetics Network, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Christopher D Huston
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Cellular, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
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9
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Abstract
The presence of actin in the nucleus has historically been a highly contentious issue. It is now, however, well accepted that actin has physiologically important roles in the nucleus. In this Review, we describe the evolution of our thinking about actin in the nucleus starting with evidence supporting its involvement in transcription, chromatin remodeling and intranuclear movements. We also review the growing literature on the mechanisms that regulate the import and export of actin and how post-translational modifications of actin could regulate nuclear actin. We end with an extended discussion of the role of nuclear actin in the repair of DNA double stranded breaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonid Serebryannyy
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Primal de Lanerolle
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States.
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10
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Cofilin-Mediated Actin Stress Response Is Maladaptive in Heat-Stressed Embryos. Cell Rep 2020; 26:3493-3501.e4. [PMID: 30917306 PMCID: PMC6447309 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.02.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental stress threatens the fidelity of embryonic morphogenesis. Heat, for example, is a teratogen. Yet how heat affects morphogenesis is poorly understood. Here, we identify a heat-inducible actin stress response (ASR) in Drosophila embryos that is mediated by the activation of the actin regulator Cofilin. Similar to ASR in adult mammalian cells, heat stress in fly embryos triggers the assembly of intra-nuclear actin rods. Rods measure up to a few microns in length, and their assembly depends on elevated free nuclear actin concentration and Cofilin. Outside the nucleus, heat stress causes Cofilin-dependent destabilization of filamentous actin (F-actin) in actomyosin networks required for morphogenesis. F-actin destabilization increases the chance of morphogenesis mistakes. Blocking the ASR by reducing Cofilin dosage improves the viability of heat-stressed embryos. However, improved viability correlates with restoring F-actin stability, not rescuing morphogenesis. Thus, ASR endangers embryos, perhaps by shifting actin from cytoplasmic filaments to an elevated nuclear pool. Figard et al. show that heat stress induces an actin stress response (ASR) in early Drosophila embryos. This ASR is mediated by a heat-induced increase in Cofilin activity. Increased Cofilin activity destabilizes F-actin structures required for morphogenesis. In addition, the Cofilin-mediated ASR reduces embryo viability.
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11
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The Actin-Family Protein Arp4 Is a Novel Suppressor for the Formation and Functions of Nuclear F-Actin. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030758. [PMID: 32204557 PMCID: PMC7140684 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The crosstalk between actin and actin-related proteins (Arps), namely Arp2 and Arp3, plays a central role in facilitating actin polymerization in the cytoplasm and also in the nucleus. Nuclear F-actin is required for transcriptional regulation, double-strand break repair, and nuclear organization. The formation of nuclear F-actin is highly dynamic, suggesting the involvement of positive and negative regulators for nuclear actin polymerization. While actin assembly factors for nuclear F-actin have been recently described, information about inhibitory factors is still limited. The actin-related protein Arp4 which is predominantly localized in the nucleus, has been previously identified as an integral subunit of multiple chromatin modulation complexes, where it forms a heterodimer with monomeric actin. Therefore, we tested whether Arp4 functions as a suppressor of nuclear F-actin formation. The knockdown of Arp4 (Arp4 KD) led to an increase in nuclear F-actin formation in NIH3T3 cells, and purified Arp4 potently inhibited F-actin formation in mouse nuclei transplanted into Xenopus laevis oocytes. Consistently, Arp4 KD facilitated F-actin-inducible gene expression (e.g., OCT4) and DNA damage repair. Our results suggest that Arp4 has a critical role in the formation and functions of nuclear F-actin.
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12
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Hyrskyluoto A, Vartiainen MK. Regulation of nuclear actin dynamics in development and disease. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2020; 64:18-24. [PMID: 32088545 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2020.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Actin has essential functions both in the cytoplasm and in the nucleus, where it has been linked to key nuclear processes, from transcription to DNA damage response. The multifunctional nature of actin suggests that the cell must contain mechanisms to accurately control the cellular actin balance. Indeed, recent results have demonstrated that nuclear actin levels fluctuate to regulate the transcriptional activity of the cell and that controlled nuclear actin polymerization is required for transcription activation, cell cycle progression, and DNA repair. Intriguingly, aberrant nuclear actin regulation has been observed, for example, in cancer, signifying the importance of this process for cellular homeostasis. This review discussed the latest research on how nuclear actin is regulated, and how this influences actin-dependent nuclear processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alise Hyrskyluoto
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maria K Vartiainen
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
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13
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Duan T, Green N, Tootle TL, Geyer PK. Nuclear architecture as an intrinsic regulator of Drosophila female germline stem cell maintenance. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2020; 37:30-38. [PMID: 32087561 PMCID: PMC7089816 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2019.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Homeostasis of Drosophila germline stem cells (GSC) depends upon the integration of intrinsic and extrinsic signals. This review highlights emerging data that support nuclear architecture as an intrinsic regulator of GSC maintenance and germ cell differentiation. Here, we focus on the nuclear lamina (NL) and the nucleolus, two compartments that undergo alterations in composition upon germ cell differentiation. Loss of NL or nucleolar components leads to GSC loss, resulting from activation of GSC quality control checkpoint pathways. We suggest that the NL and nucleolus integrate signals needed for the switch between GSC maintenance and germ cell differentiation, and propose regulation of nuclear actin pools as one mechanism that connects these compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Duan
- Departments of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Nicole Green
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa, College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Tina L Tootle
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa, College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Pamela K Geyer
- Departments of Biochemistry, University of Iowa, College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
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14
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Kelpsch DJ, Tootle TL. Nuclear Actin: From Discovery to Function. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2018; 301:1999-2013. [PMID: 30312531 PMCID: PMC6289869 DOI: 10.1002/ar.23959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
While actin was discovered in the nucleus over 50 years ago, research lagged for decades due to strong skepticism. The revitalization of research into nuclear actin occurred after it was found that cellular stresses induce the nuclear localization and alter the structure of actin. These studies provided the first hints that actin has a nuclear function. Subsequently, it was established that the nuclear import and export of actin is highly regulated. While the structures of nuclear actin remain unclear, it can function as monomers, polymers, and even rods. Furthermore, even within a given structure, distinct pools of nuclear actin that can be differentially labeled have been identified. Numerous mechanistic studies have uncovered an array of functions for nuclear actin. It regulates the activity of RNA polymerases, as well as specific transcription factors. Actin also modulates the activity of several chromatin remodeling complexes and histone deacetylases, to ultimately impinge on transcriptional programing and DNA damage repair. Further, nuclear actin mediates chromatin movement and organization. It has roles in meiosis and mitosis, and these functions may be functionally conserved from ancient bacterial actin homologs. The structure and integrity of the nuclear envelope and sub-nuclear compartments are also regulated by nuclear actin. Furthermore, nuclear actin contributes to human diseases like cancer, neurodegeneration, and myopathies. Here, we explore the early discovery of actin in the nucleus and discuss the forms and functions of nuclear actin in both normal and disease contexts. Anat Rec, 301:1999-2013, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Kelpsch
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 51 Newton Rd, 1-500 BSB, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Tina L. Tootle
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 51 Newton Rd, 1-500 BSB, Iowa City, IA 52242
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15
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An actin-based nucleoskeleton involved in gene regulation and genome organization. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 506:378-386. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.11.206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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16
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Nuclear actin: ancient clue to evolution in eukaryotes? Histochem Cell Biol 2018; 150:235-244. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-018-1693-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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17
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Parisis N, Krasinska L, Harker B, Urbach S, Rossignol M, Camasses A, Dewar J, Morin N, Fisher D. Initiation of DNA replication requires actin dynamics and formin activity. EMBO J 2017; 36:3212-3231. [PMID: 28982779 DOI: 10.15252/embj.201796585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear actin regulates transcriptional programmes in a manner dependent on its levels and polymerisation state. This dynamics is determined by the balance of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling, formin- and redox-dependent filament polymerisation. Here, using Xenopus egg extracts and human somatic cells, we show that actin dynamics and formins are essential for DNA replication. In proliferating cells, formin inhibition abolishes nuclear transport and initiation of DNA replication, as well as general transcription. In replicating nuclei from transcriptionally silent Xenopus egg extracts, we identified numerous actin regulators, and disruption of actin dynamics abrogates nuclear transport, preventing NLS (nuclear localisation signal)-cargo release from RanGTP-importin complexes. Nuclear formin activity is further required to promote loading of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) onto chromatin, as well as initiation and elongation of DNA replication. Therefore, actin dynamics and formins control DNA replication by multiple direct and indirect mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Parisis
- IGMM, CNRS Univ. Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Laboratory of Functional Proteomics, INRA, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Serge Urbach
- Functional Proteomics Platform (FPP), Institute of Functional Genomics (IGF), CNRS UMR 5203 INSERM U661, Montpellier, France
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18
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Kristó I, Bajusz C, Borsos BN, Pankotai T, Dopie J, Jankovics F, Vartiainen MK, Erdélyi M, Vilmos P. The actin binding cytoskeletal protein Moesin is involved in nuclear mRNA export. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2017; 1864:1589-1604. [PMID: 28554770 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2017.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Current models imply that the evolutionarily conserved, actin-binding Ezrin-Radixin-Moesin (ERM) proteins perform their activities at the plasma membrane by anchoring membrane proteins to the cortical actin network. Here we show that beside its cytoplasmic functions, the single ERM protein of Drosophila, Moesin, has a novel role in the nucleus. The activation of transcription by heat shock or hormonal treatment increases the amount of nuclear Moesin, indicating biological function for the protein in the nucleus. The distribution of Moesin in the nucleus suggests a function in transcription and the depletion of mRNA export factors Nup98 or its interacting partner, Rae1, leads to the nuclear accumulation of Moesin, suggesting that the nuclear function of the protein is linked to mRNA export. Moesin localizes to mRNP particles through the interaction with the mRNA export factor PCID2 and knock down of Moesin leads to the accumulation of mRNA in the nucleus. Based on our results we propose that, beyond its well-known, manifold functions in the cytoplasm, the ERM protein of Drosophila is a new, functional component of the nucleus where it participates in mRNA export.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ildikó Kristó
- Biological Research Center of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Csaba Bajusz
- Biological Research Center of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Barbara N Borsos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tibor Pankotai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Joseph Dopie
- University of Helsinki, Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ferenc Jankovics
- Biological Research Center of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - Miklós Erdélyi
- Biological Research Center of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Péter Vilmos
- Biological Research Center of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary.
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19
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Misu S, Takebayashi M, Miyamoto K. Nuclear Actin in Development and Transcriptional Reprogramming. Front Genet 2017; 8:27. [PMID: 28326098 PMCID: PMC5339334 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2017.00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Actin is a highly abundant protein in eukaryotic cells and dynamically changes its polymerized states with the help of actin-binding proteins. Its critical function as a constituent of cytoskeleton has been well-documented. Growing evidence demonstrates that actin is also present in nuclei, referred to as nuclear actin, and is involved in a number of nuclear processes, including transcriptional regulation and chromatin remodeling. The contribution of nuclear actin to transcriptional regulation can be explained by its direct interaction with transcription machineries and chromatin remodeling factors and by controlling the activities of transcription factors. In both cases, polymerized states of nuclear actin affect the transcriptional outcome. Nuclear actin also plays an important role in activating strongly silenced genes in somatic cells for transcriptional reprogramming. When these nuclear functions of actin are considered, it is plausible to speculate that nuclear actin is also implicated in embryonic development, in which numerous genes need to be activated in a well-coordinated manner. In this review, we especially focus on nuclear actin's roles in transcriptional activation, reprogramming and development, including stem cell differentiation and we discuss how nuclear actin can be an important player in development and cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Misu
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University Kinokawa-shi, Japan
| | - Marina Takebayashi
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University Kinokawa-shi, Japan
| | - Kei Miyamoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, Kindai University Kinokawa-shi, Japan
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20
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Diverse functions for different forms of nuclear actin. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2017; 46:33-38. [PMID: 28092729 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In addition to its essential roles as part of the cytoskeleton, actin has also been linked to many processes in the nucleus. Recent data has demonstrated the presence of both monomeric and polymeric actin in the nucleus, and implied distinct functional roles for these actin pools. Monomeric actin seems to be involved in regulation of gene expression through transcription factors, chromatin regulating complexes and RNA polymerases. In addition to cytoplasmic actin regulators, nuclear proteins, such as emerin, can regulate actin polymerization properties specifically in this compartment. Besides of structural roles, nuclear actin filaments may be required for organizing the nuclear contents and for the maintenance of genomic integrity.
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21
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Abstract
Although most people still associate actin mainly with the cytoskeleton, several lines of evidence, with the earliest studies dating back to decades ago, have emphasized the importance of actin also inside the cell nucleus. Actin has been linked to many gene expression processes from gene activation to chromatin remodeling, but also to maintenance of genomic integrity and intranuclear movement of chromosomes and chromosomal loci. Recent advances in visualizing different forms and dynamic properties of nuclear actin have clearly advanced our understanding of the basic concepts by which actin operates in the nucleus. In this chapter we address the different breakthroughs in nuclear actin studies, as well as discuss the regulation nuclear actin and the importance of nuclear actin dynamics in relation to its different nuclear functions. Our aim is to highlight the fact that actin should be considered as an essential component of the cell nucleus, and its nuclear actions should be taken into account also in experiments on cytoplasmic actin networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiina Viita
- Program in Cell and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 56, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maria K Vartiainen
- Program in Cell and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, 56, Helsinki, Finland.
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22
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Serebryannyy LA, Yuen M, Parilla M, Cooper ST, de Lanerolle P. The Effects of Disease Models of Nuclear Actin Polymerization on the Nucleus. Front Physiol 2016; 7:454. [PMID: 27774069 PMCID: PMC5053997 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Actin plays a crucial role in regulating multiple processes within the nucleus, including transcription and chromatin organization. However, the polymerization state of nuclear actin remains controversial, and there is no evidence for persistent actin filaments in a normal interphase nucleus. Further, several disease pathologies are characterized by polymerization of nuclear actin into stable filaments or rods. These include filaments that stain with phalloidin, resulting from point mutations in skeletal α-actin, detected in the human skeletal disease intranuclear rod myopathy, and cofilin/actin rods that form in response to cellular stressors like heatshock. To further elucidate the effects of these pathological actin structures, we examined the nucleus in both cell culture models as well as isolated human tissues. We find these actin structures alter the distribution of both RNA polymerase II and chromatin. Our data suggest that nuclear actin filaments result in disruption of nuclear organization, which may contribute to the disease pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonid A Serebryannyy
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michaela Yuen
- Institute for Neuroscience and Muscle Research, Kids Research Institute, The Children's Hospital at WestmeadSydney, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, Discipline of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of SydneySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Megan Parilla
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sandra T Cooper
- Institute for Neuroscience and Muscle Research, Kids Research Institute, The Children's Hospital at WestmeadSydney, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, Discipline of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of SydneySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Primal de Lanerolle
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago, IL, USA
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23
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Kelpsch DJ, Groen CM, Fagan TN, Sudhir S, Tootle TL. Fascin regulates nuclear actin during Drosophila oogenesis. Mol Biol Cell 2016; 27:2965-79. [PMID: 27535426 PMCID: PMC5042582 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e15-09-0634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Study of Drosophila oogenesis reveals that the nuclear localization of actin is controlled by both development and Fascin. Fascin regulates both endogenous nuclear actin and ectopic nuclear actin rod formation by controlling Cofilin. Drosophila oogenesis provides a developmental system with which to study nuclear actin. During Stages 5–9, nuclear actin levels are high in the oocyte and exhibit variation within the nurse cells. Cofilin and Profilin, which regulate the nuclear import and export of actin, also localize to the nuclei. Expression of GFP-tagged Actin results in nuclear actin rod formation. These findings indicate that nuclear actin must be tightly regulated during oogenesis. One factor mediating this regulation is Fascin. Overexpression of Fascin enhances nuclear GFP-Actin rod formation, and Fascin colocalizes with the rods. Loss of Fascin reduces, whereas overexpression of Fascin increases, the frequency of nurse cells with high levels of nuclear actin, but neither alters the overall nuclear level of actin within the ovary. These data suggest that Fascin regulates the ability of specific cells to accumulate nuclear actin. Evidence indicates that Fascin positively regulates nuclear actin through Cofilin. Loss of Fascin results in decreased nuclear Cofilin. In addition, Fascin and Cofilin genetically interact, as double heterozygotes exhibit a reduction in the number of nurse cells with high nuclear actin levels. These findings are likely applicable beyond Drosophila follicle development, as the localization and functions of Fascin and the mechanisms regulating nuclear actin are widely conserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Kelpsch
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Christopher M Groen
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Tiffany N Fagan
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Sweta Sudhir
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | - Tina L Tootle
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242
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24
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Serebryannyy LA, Parilla M, Annibale P, Cruz CM, Laster K, Gratton E, Kudryashov D, Kosak ST, Gottardi CJ, de Lanerolle P. Persistent nuclear actin filaments inhibit transcription by RNA polymerase II. J Cell Sci 2016; 129:3412-25. [PMID: 27505898 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.195867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Actin is abundant in the nucleus and it is clear that nuclear actin has important functions. However, mystery surrounds the absence of classical actin filaments in the nucleus. To address this question, we investigated how polymerizing nuclear actin into persistent nuclear actin filaments affected transcription by RNA polymerase II. Nuclear filaments impaired nuclear actin dynamics by polymerizing and sequestering nuclear actin. Polymerizing actin into stable nuclear filaments disrupted the interaction of actin with RNA polymerase II and correlated with impaired RNA polymerase II localization, dynamics, gene recruitment, and reduced global transcription and cell proliferation. Polymerizing and crosslinking nuclear actin in vitro similarly disrupted the actin-RNA-polymerase-II interaction and inhibited transcription. These data rationalize the general absence of stable actin filaments in mammalian somatic nuclei. They also suggest a dynamic pool of nuclear actin is required for the proper localization and activity of RNA polymerase II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonid A Serebryannyy
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Megan Parilla
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Paolo Annibale
- Laboratory of Fluorescence Dynamics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Christina M Cruz
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Kyle Laster
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Enrico Gratton
- Laboratory of Fluorescence Dynamics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Dmitri Kudryashov
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Steven T Kosak
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Cara J Gottardi
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Primal de Lanerolle
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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25
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Muehlich S, Hermanns C, Meier MA, Kircher P, Gudermann T. Unravelling a new mechanism linking actin polymerization and gene transcription. Nucleus 2016; 7:121-5. [PMID: 27104924 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2016.1171433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In the recent years, the role of actin and actin-binding proteins in gene transcription has received considerable attention. Nuclear monomeric and polymerized actin and several actin binding proteins have been detected in the mammalian cell nucleus, although their roles in transcription are just beginning to emerge. Our group recently reported that the actin-binding protein Filamin A interacts with the transcriptional coactivator MKL1 to link actin polymerization with transcriptional activity of Serum Response Factor. Here we summarize the regulation and function of MKL1, and highlight this novel mechanism of MKL1 regulation through binding to Filamin A and its implications for cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Muehlich
- a Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology , Ludwig-Maximilians-University , Munich , Germany
| | - Constanze Hermanns
- a Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology , Ludwig-Maximilians-University , Munich , Germany
| | - Melanie A Meier
- a Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology , Ludwig-Maximilians-University , Munich , Germany
| | - Philipp Kircher
- a Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology , Ludwig-Maximilians-University , Munich , Germany
| | - Thomas Gudermann
- a Walther Straub Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology , Ludwig-Maximilians-University , Munich , Germany
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26
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Actin, actin-binding proteins, and actin-related proteins in the nucleus. Histochem Cell Biol 2016; 145:373-88. [PMID: 26847179 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-015-1400-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Extensive research in the past decade has significantly broadened our view about the role actin plays in the life of the cell and added novel aspects to actin research. One of these new aspects is the discovery of the existence of nuclear actin which became evident only recently. Nuclear activities including transcriptional activation in the case of all three RNA polymerases, editing and nuclear export of mRNAs, and chromatin remodeling all depend on actin. It also became clear that there is a fine-tuned equilibrium between cytoplasmic and nuclear actin pools and that this balance is ensured by an export-import system dedicated to actin. After over half a century of research on conventional actin and its organizing partners in the cytoplasm, it was also an unexpected finding that the nucleus contains more than 30 actin-binding proteins and new classes of actin-related proteins which are not able to form filaments but had evolved nuclear-specific functions. The actin-binding and actin-related proteins in the nucleus have been linked to RNA transcription and processing, nuclear transport, and chromatin remodeling. In this paper, we attempt to provide an overview of the wide range of information that is now available about actin, actin-binding, and actin-related proteins in the nucleus.
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27
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Ceroni A, Higgins GS, Ebner DV. In Vitro-Pooled shRNA Screening to Identify Determinants of Radiosensitivity. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1470:103-19. [PMID: 27581288 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6337-9_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-pooled screening is a valuable and cost-effective tool for assaying the contribution of individual genes to cell viability and proliferation on a genomic scale. Here we describe the key considerations for the design and execution of a pooled shRNA screen to identify determinants of radiosensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Geoff S Higgins
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford-Old Road Campus, Oxford, UK
| | - Daniel V Ebner
- Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford-Old Road Campus, Oxford, UK
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