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Perl AL, Pokorny JL, Green KJ. Desmosomes at a glance. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261899. [PMID: 38940346 PMCID: PMC11234380 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261899] [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] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Desmosomes are relatives of ancient cadherin-based junctions, which emerged late in evolution to ensure the structural integrity of vertebrate tissues by coupling the intermediate filament cytoskeleton to cell-cell junctions. Their ability to dynamically counter the contractile forces generated by actin-associated adherens junctions is particularly important in tissues under high mechanical stress, such as the skin and heart. Much more than the simple cellular 'spot welds' depicted in textbooks, desmosomes are in fact dynamic structures that can sense and respond to changes in their mechanical environment and external stressors like ultraviolet light and pathogens. These environmental signals are transmitted intracellularly via desmosome-dependent mechanochemical pathways that drive the physiological processes of morphogenesis and differentiation. This Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster review desmosome structure and assembly, highlight recent insights into how desmosomes integrate chemical and mechanical signaling in the epidermis, and discuss desmosomes as targets in human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey L. Perl
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jenny L. Pokorny
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Kathleen J. Green
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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2
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Xie L, Wu G, Liu X, Duan X, Zhou K, Li H, Ning W. The TRIP6/LATS1 complex constitutes the tension sensor of α-catenin/vinculin at both bicellular and tricellular junctions. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151426. [PMID: 38805800 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151426] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell-cell mechanotransduction regulates tissue development and homeostasis. α-catenin, the core component of adherens junctions, functions as a tension sensor and transducer by recruiting vinculin and transducing signals that influence cell behaviors. α-catenin/vinculin complex-mediated mechanotransduction regulates multiple pathways, such as Hippo pathway. However, their associations with the α-catenin-based tension sensors at cell junctions are still not fully addressed. Here, we uncovered the TRIP6/LATS1 complex co-localizes with α-catenin/vinculin at both bicellular junctions (BCJs) and tricellular junctions (TCJs). The localization of TRIP6/LATS1 complex to both TCJs and BCJs requires ROCK1 and α-catenin. Treatment by cytochalasin B, Y-27632 and blebbistatin all impaired the BCJ and TCJ junctional localization of TRIP6/LATS1, indicating that the junctional localization of TRIP6/LATS1 is mechanosensitive. The α-catenin/vinculin/TRIP6/LATS1 complex strongly localized to TCJs and exhibited a discontinuous button-like pattern on BCJs. Additionally, we developed and validated an α-catenin/vinculin BiFC-based mechanosensor that co-localizes with TRIP6/LATS1 at BCJs and TCJs. The mechanosensor exhibited a discontinuous distribution and motile signals at BCJs. Overall, our study revealed that TRIP6 and LATS1 are novel compositions of the tension sensor, together with the core complex of α-catenin/vinculin, at both the BCJs and TCJs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Xie
- Center for Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Gangyun Wu
- Center for Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Xiayu Liu
- Center for Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Xiufen Duan
- Center for Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Kaiyao Zhou
- Center for Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Hua Li
- Center for Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China.
| | - Wenxiu Ning
- Center for Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China; Yunnan Key Laboratory of Cell Metabolism and Diseases, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China.
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3
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Conboy JP, Istúriz Petitjean I, van der Net A, Koenderink GH. How cytoskeletal crosstalk makes cells move: Bridging cell-free and cell studies. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2024; 5:021307. [PMID: 38840976 PMCID: PMC11151447 DOI: 10.1063/5.0198119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Cell migration is a fundamental process for life and is highly dependent on the dynamical and mechanical properties of the cytoskeleton. Intensive physical and biochemical crosstalk among actin, microtubules, and intermediate filaments ensures their coordination to facilitate and enable migration. In this review, we discuss the different mechanical aspects that govern cell migration and provide, for each mechanical aspect, a novel perspective by juxtaposing two complementary approaches to the biophysical study of cytoskeletal crosstalk: live-cell studies (often referred to as top-down studies) and cell-free studies (often referred to as bottom-up studies). We summarize the main findings from both experimental approaches, and we provide our perspective on bridging the two perspectives to address the open questions of how cytoskeletal crosstalk governs cell migration and makes cells move.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P. Conboy
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Irene Istúriz Petitjean
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Anouk van der Net
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Gijsje H. Koenderink
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
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4
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Jakob R, Britt BR, Giampietro C, Mazza E, Ehret AE. Discrete network models of endothelial cells and their interactions with the substrate. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2024; 23:941-957. [PMID: 38351427 PMCID: PMC11101350 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-023-01815-1] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Endothelial cell monolayers line the inner surfaces of blood and lymphatic vessels. They are continuously exposed to different mechanical loads, which may trigger mechanobiological signals and hence play a role in both physiological and pathological processes. Computer-based mechanical models of cells contribute to a better understanding of the relation between cell-scale loads and cues and the mechanical state of the hosting tissue. However, the confluency of the endothelial monolayer complicates these approaches since the intercellular cross-talk needs to be accounted for in addition to the cytoskeletal mechanics of the individual cells themselves. As a consequence, the computational approach must be able to efficiently model a large number of cells and their interaction. Here, we simulate cytoskeletal mechanics by means of molecular dynamics software, generally suitable to deal with large, locally interacting systems. Methods were developed to generate models of single cells and large monolayers with hundreds of cells. The single-cell model was considered for a comparison with experimental data. To this end, we simulated cell interactions with a continuous, deformable substrate, and computationally replicated multistep traction force microscopy experiments on endothelial cells. The results indicate that cell discrete network models are able to capture relevant features of the mechanical behaviour and are thus well-suited to investigate the mechanics of the large cytoskeletal network of individual cells and cell monolayers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael Jakob
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Ben R Britt
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, CH-8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Costanza Giampietro
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, CH-8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Edoardo Mazza
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, CH-8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Alexander E Ehret
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland.
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, CH-8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland.
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Jin X, Rosenbohm J, Moghaddam AO, Kim E, Seiffert-Sinha K, Leiker M, Zhai H, Baddam SR, Minnick G, Huo Y, Safa BT, Wahl JK, Meng F, Huang C, Lim JY, Conway DE, Sinha AA, Yang R. Desmosomal Cadherin Tension Loss in Pemphigus Vulgaris Mediated by the Inhibition of Active RhoA at Cell-Cell Adhesions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.03.592394. [PMID: 38766211 PMCID: PMC11100601 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.03.592394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Binding of autoantibodies to keratinocyte surface antigens, primarily desmoglein 3 (Dsg3) of the desmosomal complex, leads to the dissociation of cell-cell adhesion in the blistering disorder pemphigus vulgaris (PV). After the initial disassembly of desmosomes, cell-cell adhesions actively remodel in association with the cytoskeleton and focal adhesions. Growing evidence highlights the role of adhesion mechanics and mechanotransduction at cell-cell adhesions in this remodeling process, as their active participation may direct autoimmune pathogenicity. However, a large part of the biophysical transformations after antibody binding remains underexplored. Specifically, it is unclear how tension in desmosomes and cell-cell adhesions changes in response to antibodies, and how the altered tensional states translate to cellular responses. Here, we showed a tension loss at Dsg3 using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based tension sensors, a tension loss at the entire cell-cell adhesion, and a potentially compensatory increase in junctional traction force at cell-extracellular matrix adhesions after PV antibody binding. Further, our data indicate that this tension loss is mediated by the inhibition of RhoA at cell-cell contacts, and the extent of RhoA inhibition may be crucial in determining the severity of pathogenicity among different PV antibodies. More importantly, this tension loss can be partially restored by altering actomyosin based cell contractility. Collectively, these findings provide previously unattainable details in our understanding of the mechanisms that govern cell-cell interactions under physiological and autoimmune conditions, which may open the window to entirely new therapeutics aimed at restoring physiological balance to tension dynamics that regulates the maintenance of cell-cell adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Jin
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Jordan Rosenbohm
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Amir Ostadi Moghaddam
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Eunju Kim
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | | | - Merced Leiker
- Department of Dermatology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203
| | - Haiwei Zhai
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Sindora R. Baddam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23284
| | - Grayson Minnick
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Yucheng Huo
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Republic of Singapore
| | - Bahareh Tajvidi Safa
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - James K. Wahl
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Lincoln, NE 68583
| | - Fanben Meng
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Changjin Huang
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jung Yul Lim
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
| | - Daniel E. Conway
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
- The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Animesh A. Sinha
- Department of Dermatology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203
| | - Ruiguo Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
- Nebraska Center for Integrated Biomolecular Communication, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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6
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Liu YQ, Xu YW, Zheng ZT, Li D, Hong CQ, Dai HQ, Wang JH, Chu LY, Liao LD, Zou HY, Li EM, Xie JJ, Fang WK. Serine/threonine-protein kinase D2-mediated phosphorylation of DSG2 threonine 730 promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression. J Pathol 2024; 263:99-112. [PMID: 38411280 DOI: 10.1002/path.6264] [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: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Desmoglein-2 (DSG2) is a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the desmosomal cadherin family, which mediates cell-cell junctions; regulates cell proliferation, migration, and invasion; and promotes tumor development and metastasis. We previously showed serum DSG2 to be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), although the significance and underlying molecular mechanisms were not identified. Here, we found that DSG2 was increased in ESCC tissues compared with adjacent tissues. In addition, we demonstrated that DSG2 promoted ESCC cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, using interactome analysis, we identified serine/threonine-protein kinase D2 (PRKD2) as a novel DSG2 kinase that mediates the phosphorylation of DSG2 at threonine 730 (T730). Functionally, DSG2 promoted ESCC cell migration and invasion dependent on DSG2-T730 phosphorylation. Mechanistically, DSG2 T730 phosphorylation activated EGFR, Src, AKT, and ERK signaling pathways. In addition, DSG2 and PRKD2 were positively correlated with each other, and the overall survival time of ESCC patients with high DSG2 and PRKD2 was shorter than that of patients with low DSG2 and PRKD2 levels. In summary, PRKD2 is a novel DSG2 kinase, and PRKD2-mediated DSG2 T730 phosphorylation promotes ESCC progression. These findings may facilitate the development of future therapeutic agents that target DSG2 and DSG2 phosphorylation. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Qiao Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Yi-Wei Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Zheng-Tan Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Die Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Chao-Qun Hong
- Department of Oncological Laboratory Research, The Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Hao-Qiang Dai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Jun-Hao Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Ling-Yu Chu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, The Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Lian-Di Liao
- Institute of Oncologic Pathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Hai-Ying Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - En-Min Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
- Shantou Academy Medical Sciences, Shantou, PR China
| | - Jian-Jun Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
| | - Wang-Kai Fang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, PR China
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7
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Toivola DM, Polari L, Schwerd T, Schlegel N, Strnad P. The keratin-desmosome scaffold of internal epithelia in health and disease - The plot is thickening. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2024; 86:102282. [PMID: 38000362 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Keratin (K) intermediate filaments are attached to desmosomes and constitute the orchestrators of epithelial cell and tissue architecture. While their relevance in the epidermis is well recognized, our review focuses on their emerging importance in internal epithelia. The significance of keratin-desmosome scaffolds (KDSs) in the intestine is highlighted by transgenic mouse models and individuals with inflammatory bowel disease who display profound KDS alterations. In lung, high K8 expression defines a transitional cell subset during regeneration, and K8 variants are associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Inherited variants in desmosomal proteins are overrepresented in idiopathic lung fibrosis, and familiar eosinophilic esophagitis. K18 serum fragments are established hepatocellular injury markers that correlate with the extent of histological inflammation. K17 expression is modified in multiple tumors, and K17 levels might be of prognostic relevance. These data should spur further studies on biological roles of these versatile tissue protectors and efforts on their therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M Toivola
- Cell Biology, Biosciences and InFLAMES Research Flagship Center, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.
| | - Lauri Polari
- Cell Biology, Biosciences and InFLAMES Research Flagship Center, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Tobias Schwerd
- Department of Pediatrics, Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | - Nicolas Schlegel
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplant, Vascular and Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
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Wibbe N, Ebnet K. Cell Adhesion at the Tight Junctions: New Aspects and New Functions. Cells 2023; 12:2701. [PMID: 38067129 PMCID: PMC10706136 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Tight junctions (TJ) are cell-cell adhesive structures that define the permeability of barrier-forming epithelia and endothelia. In contrast to this seemingly static function, TJs display a surprisingly high molecular complexity and unexpected dynamic regulation, which allows the TJs to maintain a barrier in the presence of physiological forces and in response to perturbations. Cell-cell adhesion receptors play key roles during the dynamic regulation of TJs. They connect individual cells within cellular sheets and link sites of cell-cell contacts to the underlying actin cytoskeleton. Recent findings support the roles of adhesion receptors in transmitting mechanical forces and promoting phase separation. In this review, we discuss the newly discovered functions of cell adhesion receptors localized at the TJs and their role in the regulation of the barrier function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolina Wibbe
- Institute-Associated Research Group "Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity", Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Klaus Ebnet
- Institute-Associated Research Group "Cell Adhesion and Cell Polarity", Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Von-Esmarch-Str. 56, D-48149 Münster, Germany
- Cells-in-Motion Cluster of Excellence (EXC 1003-CiM), University of Münster, D-48419 Münster, Germany
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Nagler S, Ghoreishi Y, Kollmann C, Kelm M, Gerull B, Waschke J, Burkard N, Schlegel N. Plakophilin 2 regulates intestinal barrier function by modulating protein kinase C activity in vitro. Tissue Barriers 2023; 11:2138061. [PMID: 36280901 PMCID: PMC10606776 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2022.2138061] [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: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous data provided evidence for a critical role of desmosomes to stabilize intestinal epithelial barrier (IEB) function. These studies suggest that desmosomes not only contribute to intercellular adhesion but also play a role as signaling hubs. The contribution of desmosomal plaque proteins plakophilins (PKP) in the intestinal epithelium remains unexplored. The intestinal expression of PKP2 and PKP3 was verified in human gut specimens, human intestinal organoids as well as in Caco2 cells whereas PKP1 was not detected. Knock-down of PKP2 using siRNA in Caco2 cells resulted in loss of intercellular adhesion and attenuated epithelial barrier. This was paralleled by changes of the whole desmosomal complex, including loss of desmoglein2, desmocollin2, plakoglobin and desmoplakin. In addition, tight junction proteins claudin1 and claudin4 were reduced following the loss of PKP2. Interestingly, siRNA-induced loss of PKP3 did not change intercellular adhesion and barrier function in Caco2 cells, while siRNA-induced loss of both PKP2 and PKP3 augmented the changes observed for reduced PKP2 alone. Moreover, loss of PKP2 and PKP2/3, but not PKP3, resulted in reduced activity levels of protein kinase C (PKC). Restoration of PKC activity using Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) rescued loss of intestinal barrier function and attenuated the reduced expression patterns of claudin1 and claudin4. Immunostaining, proximity ligation assays and co-immunoprecipitation revealed a direct interaction between PKP2 and PKC. In summary, our in vitro data suggest that PKP2 plays a critical role for intestinal barrier function by providing a signaling hub for PKC-mediated expression of tight junction proteins claudin1 and claudin4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Nagler
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplant, Vascular and Paediatric Surgery University Hospital Würzburg, Wuerzburg97080, Germany
| | - Yalda Ghoreishi
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplant, Vascular and Paediatric Surgery University Hospital Würzburg, Wuerzburg97080, Germany
| | - Catherine Kollmann
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplant, Vascular and Paediatric Surgery University Hospital Würzburg, Wuerzburg97080, Germany
| | - Matthias Kelm
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplant, Vascular and Paediatric Surgery University Hospital Würzburg, Wuerzburg97080, Germany
| | - Brenda Gerull
- Comprehensive Heart Failure Center and Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jens Waschke
- Department I, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Munich, Germany
| | - Natalie Burkard
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplant, Vascular and Paediatric Surgery University Hospital Würzburg, Wuerzburg97080, Germany
| | - Nicolas Schlegel
- Department of General, Visceral, Transplant, Vascular and Paediatric Surgery University Hospital Würzburg, Wuerzburg97080, Germany
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10
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Du C, Cai N, Dong J, Xu C, Wang Q, Zhang Z, Li J, Huang C, Ma T. Uncovering the role of cytoskeleton proteins in the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 123:110607. [PMID: 37506501 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110607] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Neutrophils are a type of lymphocyte involved in innate immune defense. In response to specific stimuli, these phagocytic cells undergo a unique form of cell death, NETosis, during which they release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) composed of modified chromatin structures decorated with cytoplasmic and granular proteins. Multiple proteins and pathways have been implicated in the formation of NETs. The cytoskeleton, an interconnected network of filamentous polymers and regulatory proteins, plays a crucial role in resisting deformation, transporting intracellular cargo, and changing shape during movement of eukaryotic cells. It may also have evolved to defend eukaryotic organisms against infection. Recent research focuses on understanding the mechanisms underlying NETs formation and how cytoskeletal networks contribute to this process, by identifying enzymes that trigger NETosis or interact with NETs and influence cellular behavior through cytoskeletal dynamics. An enhanced understanding of the complex relationship between the cytoskeleton and NET formation will provide a framework for future research and the development of targeted therapeutic strategies, and supports the notion that the long-lived cytoskeleton structures may have a lasting impact on this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changlin Du
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Na Cai
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jiahui Dong
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Chuanting Xu
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Zhenming Zhang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jun Li
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Cheng Huang
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Taotao Ma
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
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11
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Perl AL, Koetsier JL, Green KJ. PP2A-B55alpha controls keratinocyte adhesion through dephosphorylation of the Desmoplakin C-terminus. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12720. [PMID: 37543698 PMCID: PMC10404246 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37874-8] [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: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Critical for the maintenance of epidermal integrity and function are attachments between intermediate filaments (IF) and intercellular junctions called desmosomes. The desmosomal cytoplasmic plaque protein desmoplakin (DP) is essential for anchoring IF to the junction. DP-IF interactions are regulated by a phospho-regulatory motif within the DP C-terminus controlling keratinocyte intercellular adhesion. Here we identify the protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A)-B55α holoenzyme as the major serine/threonine phosphatase regulating DP's C-terminus and consequent intercellular adhesion. Using a combination of chemical and genetic approaches, we show that the PP2A-B55α holoenzyme interacts with DP at intercellular membranes in 2D- and 3D- epidermal models and human skin samples. Our experiments demonstrate that PP2A-B55α regulates the phosphorylation status of junctional DP and is required for maintaining strong desmosome-mediated intercellular adhesion. These data identify PP2A-B55α as part of a regulatory module capable of tuning intercellular adhesion strength and a candidate disease target in desmosome-related disorders of the skin and heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey L Perl
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Jennifer L Koetsier
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Kathleen J Green
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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12
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Domingo-Muelas A, Skory RM, Moverley AA, Ardestani G, Pomp O, Rubio C, Tetlak P, Hernandez B, Rhon-Calderon EA, Navarro-Sánchez L, García-Pascual CM, Bissiere S, Bartolomei MS, Sakkas D, Simón C, Plachta N. Human embryo live imaging reveals nuclear DNA shedding during blastocyst expansion and biopsy. Cell 2023; 186:3166-3181.e18. [PMID: 37413989 PMCID: PMC11170958 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Proper preimplantation development is essential to assemble a blastocyst capable of implantation. Live imaging has uncovered major events driving early development in mouse embryos; yet, studies in humans have been limited by restrictions on genetic manipulation and lack of imaging approaches. We have overcome this barrier by combining fluorescent dyes with live imaging to reveal the dynamics of chromosome segregation, compaction, polarization, blastocyst formation, and hatching in the human embryo. We also show that blastocyst expansion mechanically constrains trophectoderm cells, causing nuclear budding and DNA shedding into the cytoplasm. Furthermore, cells with lower perinuclear keratin levels are more prone to undergo DNA loss. Moreover, applying trophectoderm biopsy, a mechanical procedure performed clinically for genetic testing, increases DNA shedding. Thus, our work reveals distinct processes underlying human development compared with mouse and suggests that aneuploidies in human embryos may not only originate from chromosome segregation errors during mitosis but also from nuclear DNA shedding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Domingo-Muelas
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Igenomix Foundation and Carlos Simon Foundation, Spain
| | - Robin M Skory
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Adam A Moverley
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Oz Pomp
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Piotr Tetlak
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Blake Hernandez
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Eric A Rhon-Calderon
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | | | - Stephanie Bissiere
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Marisa S Bartolomei
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Carlos Simón
- Igenomix Foundation and Carlos Simon Foundation, Spain; Department of Pediatrics Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain; INCLIVA Health Research Institute, Valencia 46010, Spain; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Nicolas Plachta
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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13
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Rübsam M, Püllen R, Tellkamp F, Bianco A, Peskoller M, Bloch W, Green KJ, Merkel R, Hoffmann B, Wickström SA, Niessen CM. Polarity signaling balances epithelial contractility and mechanical resistance. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7743. [PMID: 37173371 PMCID: PMC10182030 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33485-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelia maintain a functional barrier during tissue turnover while facing varying mechanical stress. This maintenance requires both dynamic cell rearrangements driven by actomyosin-linked intercellular adherens junctions and ability to adapt to and resist extrinsic mechanical forces enabled by keratin filament-linked desmosomes. How these two systems crosstalk to coordinate cellular movement and mechanical resilience is not known. Here we show that in stratifying epithelia the polarity protein aPKCλ controls the reorganization from stress fibers to cortical actomyosin during differentiation and upward movement of cells. Without aPKC, stress fibers are retained resulting in increased contractile prestress. This aberrant stress is counterbalanced by reorganization and bundling of keratins, thereby increasing mechanical resilience. Inhibiting contractility in aPKCλ-/- cells restores normal cortical keratin networks but also normalizes resilience. Consistently, increasing contractile stress is sufficient to induce keratin bundling and enhance resilience, mimicking aPKC loss. In conclusion, our data indicate that keratins sense the contractile stress state of stratified epithelia and balance increased contractility by mounting a protective response to maintain tissue integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Rübsam
- Department Cell Biology of the Skin, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
- Cologne Excellence Cluster for Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Robin Püllen
- Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Biological Information Processing, IBI-2: Mechanobiology, 52428, Jülich, Germany
| | - Frederik Tellkamp
- Department Cell Biology of the Skin, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Cologne Excellence Cluster for Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Institute for Genetics, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alessandra Bianco
- Department Cell Biology of the Skin, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Cologne Excellence Cluster for Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Marc Peskoller
- Department Cell Biology of the Skin, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Cologne Excellence Cluster for Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wilhelm Bloch
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sport Medicine, Institute of Cardiovascular Research and Sport Medicine, German Sport University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kathleen J Green
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Rudolf Merkel
- Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Biological Information Processing, IBI-2: Mechanobiology, 52428, Jülich, Germany
| | - Bernd Hoffmann
- Forschungszentrum Jülich, Institute of Biological Information Processing, IBI-2: Mechanobiology, 52428, Jülich, Germany
| | - Sara A Wickström
- Cologne Excellence Cluster for Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, 50931, Cologne, Germany
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Carien M Niessen
- Department Cell Biology of the Skin, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
- Cologne Excellence Cluster for Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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14
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Perrin L, Matic Vignjevic D. The emerging roles of the cytoskeleton in intestinal epithelium homeostasis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023:S1084-9521(23)00071-X. [PMID: 36948998 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
The intestinal epithelium must absorb many nutrients and water while forming a barrier that is impermeable to pathogens present in the external environment. Concurrently to fulfill this dual role, the intestinal epithelium is challenged by a rapid renewal of cells and forces resulting from digestion. Hence, intestinal homeostasis requires precise control of tissue integrity, tissue renewal, cell polarity, and force generation/transmission. In this review, we highlight the contribution of the cell cytoskeleton- actin, microtubules, and intermediate filaments- to intestinal epithelium homeostasis. With a focus on enterocytes, we first discuss the role of these networks in the formation and maintenance of cell-cell and cell-matrix junctions. Then, we cover their role in intracellular trafficking related to the apicobasal polarity of enterocytes. Finally, we report on the cytoskeletal changes that occur during tissue renewal. In conclusion, the importance of the cytoskeleton in maintaining intestinal homeostasis is emerging, and we think this field will keep evolving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisiane Perrin
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR 144, F-75005 Paris, France.
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15
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Nanavati BN, Noordstra I, Verma S, Duszyc K, Green KJ, Yap AS. Desmosome-anchored intermediate filaments facilitate tension-sensitive RhoA signaling for epithelial homeostasis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.23.529786. [PMID: 36865131 PMCID: PMC9980054 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.23.529786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Epithelia are subject to diverse forms of mechanical stress during development and post-embryonic life. They possess multiple mechanisms to preserve tissue integrity against tensile forces, which characteristically involve specialized cell-cell adhesion junctions coupled to the cytoskeleton. Desmosomes connect to intermediate filaments (IF) via desmoplakin (DP)1,2, while the E-cadherin complex links to the actomyosin cytoskeleton in adherens junctions (AJ)3. These distinct adhesion-cytoskeleton systems support different strategies to preserve epithelial integrity, especially against tensile stress. IFs coupled to desmosomes can passively respond to tension by strain-stiffening4-10, whereas for AJs a variety of mechanotransduction mechanisms associated with the E-cadherin apparatus itself11,12, or proximate to the junctions13, can modulate the activity of its associated actomyosin cytoskeleton by cell signaling. We now report a pathway where these systems collaborate for active tension-sensing and epithelial homeostasis. We found that DP was necessary for epithelia to activate RhoA at AJ on tensile stimulation, an effect that required its capacity to couple IF to desmosomes. DP exerted this effect by facilitating the association of Myosin VI with E-cadherin, the mechanosensor for the tension-sensitive RhoA pathway at AJ12. This connection between the DP-IF system and AJ-based tension-sensing promoted epithelial resilience when contractile tension was increased. It further facilitated epithelial homeostasis by allowing apoptotic cells to be eliminated by apical extrusion. Thus, active responses to tensile stress in epithelial monolayers reflect an integrated response of the IF- and actomyosin-based cell-cell adhesion systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bageshri Naimish Nanavati
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland
| | - Ivar Noordstra
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland
| | - Suzie Verma
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland
| | - Kinga Duszyc
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland
| | - Kathleen J. Green
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago IL 06011 USA
| | - Alpha S. Yap
- Centre for Cell Biology of Chronic Disease, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland
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16
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Yoon S, Windoffer R, Kozyrina AN, Piskova T, Di Russo J, Leube RE. Combining Image Restoration and Traction Force Microscopy to Study Extracellular Matrix-Dependent Keratin Filament Network Plasticity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:901038. [PMID: 35646906 PMCID: PMC9131083 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.901038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Keratin intermediate filaments are dynamic cytoskeletal components that are responsible for tuning the mechanical properties of epithelial tissues. Although it is known that keratin filaments (KFs) are able to sense and respond to changes in the physicochemical properties of the local niche, a direct correlation of the dynamic three-dimensional network structure at the single filament level with the microenvironment has not been possible. Using conventional approaches, we find that keratin flow rates are dependent on extracellular matrix (ECM) composition but are unable to resolve KF network organization at the single filament level in relation to force patterns. We therefore developed a novel method that combines a machine learning-based image restoration technique and traction force microscopy to decipher the fine details of KF network properties in living cells grown on defined ECM patterns. Our approach utilizes Content-Aware Image Restoration (CARE) to enhance the temporal resolution of confocal fluorescence microscopy by at least five fold while preserving the spatial resolution required for accurate extraction of KF network structure at the single KF/KF bundle level. The restored images are used to segment the KF network, allowing numerical analyses of its local properties. We show that these tools can be used to study the impact of ECM composition and local mechanical perturbations on KF network properties and corresponding traction force patterns in size-controlled keratinocyte assemblies. We were thus able to detect increased curvature but not length of KFs on laminin-322 versus fibronectin. Photoablation of single cells in microprinted circular quadruplets revealed surprisingly little but still significant changes in KF segment length and curvature that were paralleled by an overall reduction in traction forces without affecting global network orientation in the modified cell groups irrespective of the ECM coating. Single cell analyses furthermore revealed differential responses to the photoablation that were less pronounced on laminin-332 than on fibronectin. The obtained results illustrate the feasibility of combining multiple techniques for multimodal monitoring and thereby provide, for the first time, a direct comparison between the changes in KF network organization at the single filament level and local force distribution in defined paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungjun Yoon
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Reinhard Windoffer
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Aleksandra N Kozyrina
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,DWI-Leibniz-Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstr, Aachen, Germany
| | - Teodora Piskova
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,DWI-Leibniz-Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstr, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jacopo Di Russo
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Centre for Clinical Research, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.,DWI-Leibniz-Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstr, Aachen, Germany
| | - Rudolf E Leube
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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17
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Ndiaye AB, Koenderink GH, Shemesh M. Intermediate Filaments in Cellular Mechanoresponsiveness: Mediating Cytoskeletal Crosstalk From Membrane to Nucleus and Back. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:882037. [PMID: 35478961 PMCID: PMC9035595 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.882037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian cytoskeleton forms a mechanical continuum that spans across the cell, connecting the cell surface to the nucleus via transmembrane protein complexes in the plasma and nuclear membranes. It transmits extracellular forces to the cell interior, providing mechanical cues that influence cellular decisions, but also actively generates intracellular forces, enabling the cell to probe and remodel its tissue microenvironment. Cells adapt their gene expression profile and morphology to external cues provided by the matrix and adjacent cells as well as to cell-intrinsic changes in cytoplasmic and nuclear volume. The cytoskeleton is a complex filamentous network of three interpenetrating structural proteins: actin, microtubules, and intermediate filaments. Traditionally the actin cytoskeleton is considered the main contributor to mechanosensitivity. This view is now shifting owing to the mounting evidence that the three cytoskeletal filaments have interdependent functions due to cytoskeletal crosstalk, with intermediate filaments taking a central role. In this Mini Review we discuss how cytoskeletal crosstalk confers mechanosensitivity to cells and tissues, with a particular focus on the role of intermediate filaments. We propose a view of the cytoskeleton as a composite structure, in which cytoskeletal crosstalk regulates the local stability and organization of all three filament families at the sub-cellular scale, cytoskeletal mechanics at the cellular scale, and cell adaptation to external cues at the tissue scale.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michal Shemesh
- *Correspondence: Michal Shemesh, ; Gijsje H. Koenderink,
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18
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Neel BL, Nisler CR, Walujkar S, Araya-Secchi R, Sotomayor M. Elastic versus brittle mechanical responses predicted for dimeric cadherin complexes. Biophys J 2022; 121:1013-1028. [PMID: 35151631 PMCID: PMC8943749 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2022.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadherins are a superfamily of adhesion proteins involved in a variety of biological processes that include the formation of intercellular contacts, the maintenance of tissue integrity, and the development of neuronal circuits. These transmembrane proteins are characterized by ectodomains composed of a variable number of extracellular cadherin (EC) repeats that are similar but not identical in sequence and fold. E-cadherin, along with desmoglein and desmocollin proteins, are three classical-type cadherins that have slightly curved ectodomains and engage in homophilic and heterophilic interactions through an exchange of conserved tryptophan residues in their N-terminal EC1 repeat. In contrast, clustered protocadherins are straighter than classical cadherins and interact through an antiparallel homophilic binding interface that involves overlapped EC1 to EC4 repeats. Here we present molecular dynamics simulations that model the adhesive domains of these cadherins using available crystal structures, with systems encompassing up to 2.8 million atoms. Simulations of complete classical cadherin ectodomain dimers predict a two-phased elastic response to force in which these complexes first softly unbend and then stiffen to unbind without unfolding. Simulated α, β, and γ clustered protocadherin homodimers lack a two-phased elastic response, are brittle and stiffer than classical cadherins and exhibit complex unbinding pathways that in some cases involve transient intermediates. We propose that these distinct mechanical responses are important for function, with classical cadherin ectodomains acting as molecular shock absorbers and with stiffer clustered protocadherin ectodomains facilitating overlap that favors binding specificity over mechanical resilience. Overall, our simulations provide insights into the molecular mechanics of single cadherin dimers relevant in the formation of cellular junctions essential for tissue function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon L Neel
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; The Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Collin R Nisler
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Sanket Walujkar
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Chemical Physics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Raul Araya-Secchi
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Tecnología, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marcos Sotomayor
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; The Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Chemical Physics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
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19
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Neel BL, Nisler CR, Walujkar S, Araya-Secchi R, Sotomayor M. Collective mechanical responses of cadherin-based adhesive junctions as predicted by simulations. Biophys J 2022; 121:991-1012. [PMID: 35150618 PMCID: PMC8943820 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2022.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadherin-based adherens junctions and desmosomes help stabilize cell-cell contacts with additional function in mechano-signaling, while clustered protocadherin junctions are responsible for directing neuronal circuits assembly. Structural models for adherens junctions formed by epithelial cadherin (CDH1) proteins indicate that their long, curved ectodomains arrange to form a periodic, two-dimensional lattice stabilized by tip-to-tip trans interactions (across junction) and lateral cis contacts. Less is known about the exact architecture of desmosomes, but desmoglein (DSG) and desmocollin (DSC) cadherin proteins are also thought to form ordered junctions. In contrast, clustered protocadherin (PCDH)-based cell-cell contacts in neuronal tissues are thought to be responsible for self-recognition and avoidance, and structural models for clustered PCDH junctions show a linear arrangement in which their long and straight ectodomains form antiparallel overlapped trans complexes. Here, we report all-atom molecular dynamics simulations testing the mechanics of minimalistic adhesive junctions formed by CDH1, DSG2 coupled to DSC1, and PCDHγB4, with systems encompassing up to 3.7 million atoms. Simulations generally predict a favored shearing pathway for the adherens junction model and a two-phased elastic response to tensile forces for the adhesive adherens junction and the desmosome models. Complexes within these junctions first unbend at low tensile force and then become stiff to unbind without unfolding. However, cis interactions in both the CDH1 and DSG2-DSC1 systems dictate varied mechanical responses of individual dimers within the junctions. Conversely, the clustered protocadherin PCDHγB4 junction lacks a distinct two-phased elastic response. Instead, applied tensile force strains trans interactions directly, as there is little unbending of monomers within the junction. Transient intermediates, influenced by new cis interactions, are observed after the main rupture event. We suggest that these collective, complex mechanical responses mediated by cis contacts facilitate distinct functions in robust cell-cell adhesion for classical cadherins and in self-avoidance signaling for clustered PCDHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon L Neel
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; The Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Collin R Nisler
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Sanket Walujkar
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Chemical Physics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Raul Araya-Secchi
- Facultad de Ingenieria y Tecnologia, Universidad San Sebastian, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marcos Sotomayor
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; The Ohio State Biochemistry Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Chemical Physics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.
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20
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Wahiduzzaman M, Liu Y, Huang T, Wei W, Li Y. Cell-cell communication analysis for single-cell RNA sequencing and its applications in carcinogenesis and COVID-19. BIOSAFETY AND HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bsheal.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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21
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Prechova M, Adamova Z, Schweizer AL, Maninova M, Bauer A, Kah D, Meier-Menches SM, Wiche G, Fabry B, Gregor M. Plectin-mediated cytoskeletal crosstalk controls cell tension and cohesion in epithelial sheets. J Cell Biol 2022; 221:e202105146. [PMID: 35139142 PMCID: PMC8932528 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202105146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The coordinated interplay of cytoskeletal networks critically determines tissue biomechanics and structural integrity. Here, we show that plectin, a major intermediate filament-based cytolinker protein, orchestrates cortical cytoskeletal networks in epithelial sheets to support intercellular junctions. By combining CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing and pharmacological inhibition, we demonstrate that in an F-actin-dependent context, plectin is essential for the formation of the circumferential keratin rim, organization of radial keratin spokes, and desmosomal patterning. In the absence of plectin-mediated cytoskeletal cross-linking, the aberrant keratin-desmosome (DSM)-network feeds back to the actin cytoskeleton, which results in elevated actomyosin contractility. Also, by complementing a predictive mechanical model with Förster resonance energy transfer-based tension sensors, we provide evidence that in the absence of cytoskeletal cross-linking, major intercellular junctions (adherens junctions and DSMs) are under intrinsically generated tensile stress. Defective cytoarchitecture and tensional disequilibrium result in reduced intercellular cohesion, associated with general destabilization of plectin-deficient sheets upon mechanical stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Prechova
- Laboratory of Integrative Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Adamova
- Laboratory of Integrative Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anna-Lena Schweizer
- Department of Quantitative Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular Cell Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Miloslava Maninova
- Laboratory of Integrative Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Andreas Bauer
- Department of Physics, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Delf Kah
- Department of Physics, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Gerhard Wiche
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Max Perutz Labs, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ben Fabry
- Department of Physics, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martin Gregor
- Laboratory of Integrative Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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22
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Yeruva S, Waschke J. Structure and regulation of desmosomes in intercalated discs: Lessons from epithelia. J Anat 2022; 242:81-90. [PMID: 35128661 PMCID: PMC9773171 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
For electromechanical coupling of cardiomyocytes, intercalated discs (ICDs) are pivotal as highly specialized intercellular contact areas. ICD consists of adhesive contacts, such as desmosomes and adherens junctions (AJs) that are partially intermingled and thereby form an area composita to provide mechanical strength, as well as gap junctions (GJ) and sodium channels for excitation propagation. In contrast, in epithelia, mixed junctions with features of desmosomes and AJs are regarded as transitory primarily during the formation of desmosomes. The anatomy of desmosomes is defined by a typical ultrastructure with dense intracellular plaques anchoring the cadherin-type adhesion molecules to the intermediate filament cytoskeleton. Desmosomal diseases characterized by impaired adhesive and signalling functions of desmosomal contacts lead to arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy when affecting cardiomyocytes and cause pemphigus when manifesting in keratinocytes or present as cardiocutaneous syndromes when both cell types are targeted by the disease, which underscores the high biomedical relevance of these cell contacts. Therefore, comparative analyses regarding the structure and regulation of desmosomal contacts in cardiomyocytes and epithelial cells are helpful to better understand disease pathogenesis. In this brief review, we describe the structural properties of ICD compared to epithelial desmosomes and suggest that mechanisms regulating adhesion may at least in part be comparable. Also, we discuss whether phenomena such as hyperadhesion or the bidirectional regulation of desmosomes to serve as signalling hubs in epithelial cells may also be relevant for ICD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Yeruva
- Ludwig‐Maximilian‐Universität München, Anatomische Anstalt, Lehrstuhl Anatomie I – Vegetative AnatomieMunichGermany
| | - Jens Waschke
- Ludwig‐Maximilian‐Universität München, Anatomische Anstalt, Lehrstuhl Anatomie I – Vegetative AnatomieMunichGermany
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23
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Zimmer SE, Takeichi T, Conway DE, Kubo A, Suga Y, Akiyama M, Kowalczyk AP. Differential Pathomechanisms of Desmoglein 1 Transmembrane Domain Mutations in Skin Disease. J Invest Dermatol 2022; 142:323-332.e8. [PMID: 34352264 PMCID: PMC9109890 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.07.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Dominant and recessive mutations in the desmosomal cadherin, desmoglein (DSG) 1, cause the skin diseases palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) and severe dermatitis, multiple allergies, and metabolic wasting (SAM) syndrome, respectively. In this study, we compare two dominant missense mutations in the DSG1 transmembrane domain (TMD), G557R and G562R, causing PPK (DSG1PPK-TMD) and SAM syndrome (DSG1SAM-TMD), respectively, to determine the differing pathomechanisms of these mutants. Expressing the DSG1TMD mutants in a DSG-null background, we use cellular and biochemical assays to reveal the differences in the mechanistic behavior of each mutant. Super-resolution microscopy and functional assays showed a failure by both mutants to assemble desmosomes due to reduced membrane trafficking and lipid raft targeting. DSG1SAM-TMD maintained normal expression levels and turnover relative to wildtype DSG1, but DSG1PPK-TMD lacked stability, leading to increased turnover through lysosomal and proteasomal pathways and reduced expression levels. These results differentiate the underlying pathomechanisms of these disorders, suggesting that DSG1SAM-TMD acts dominant negatively, whereas DSG1PPK-TMD is a loss-of-function mutation causing the milder PPK disease phenotype. These mutants portray the importance of the DSG TMD in desmosome function and suggest that a greater understanding of the desmosomal cadherin TMDs will further our understanding of the role that desmosomes play in epidermal pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E Zimmer
- Department of Dermatology, Penn State College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA; Biochemistry, Cell and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, Emory School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Takuya Takeichi
- Department of Dermatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Daniel E Conway
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Akiharu Kubo
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yasushi Suga
- Department of Dermatology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Urayasu, Japan
| | - Masashi Akiyama
- Department of Dermatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Andrew P Kowalczyk
- Department of Dermatology, Penn State College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Penn State College of Medicine, The Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA.
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24
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Hegazy M, Perl AL, Svoboda SA, Green KJ. Desmosomal Cadherins in Health and Disease. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 17:47-72. [PMID: 34425055 PMCID: PMC8792335 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathol-042320-092912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Desmosomal cadherins are a recent evolutionary innovation that make up the adhesive core of highly specialized intercellular junctions called desmosomes. Desmosomal cadherins, which are grouped into desmogleins and desmocollins, are related to the classical cadherins, but their cytoplasmic domains are tailored for anchoring intermediate filaments instead of actin to sites of cell-cell adhesion. The resulting junctions are critical for resisting mechanical stress in tissues such as the skin and heart. Desmosomal cadherins also act as signaling hubs that promote differentiation and facilitate morphogenesis, creating more complex and effective tissue barriers in vertebrate tissues. Interference with desmosomal cadherin adhesive and supra-adhesive functions leads to a variety of autoimmune, hereditary, toxin-mediated, and malignant diseases. We review our current understanding of how desmosomal cadherins contribute to human health and disease, highlight gaps in our knowledge about their regulation and function, and introduce promising new directions toward combatting desmosome-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marihan Hegazy
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Abbey L. Perl
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Sophia A. Svoboda
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
| | - Kathleen J. Green
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA,Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
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25
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Gross A, Zhou B, Bewersdorf L, Schwarz N, Schacht GM, Boor P, Hoeft K, Hoffmann B, Fuchs E, Kramann R, Merkel R, Leube RE, Strnad P. Desmoplakin Maintains Transcellular Keratin Scaffolding and Protects From Intestinal Injury. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 13:1181-1200. [PMID: 34929421 PMCID: PMC8873596 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2021.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Desmosomes are intercellular junctions connecting keratin intermediate filaments of neighboring cells. The cadherins desmoglein 2 (Dsg2) and desmocollin 2 mediate cell-cell adhesion, whereas desmoplakin (Dsp) provides the attachment of desmosomes to keratins. Although the importance of the desmosome-keratin network is well established in mechanically challenged tissues, we aimed to assess the currently understudied function of desmosomal proteins in intestinal epithelia. METHODS We analyzed the intestine-specific villin-Cre DSP (DSPΔIEC) and the combined intestine-specific DSG2/DSPΔIEC (ΔDsg2/Dsp) knockout mice. Cross-breeding with keratin 8-yellow fluorescent protein knock-in mice and generation of organoids was performed to visualize the keratin network. A Dsp-deficient colorectal carcinoma HT29-derived cell line was generated and the role of Dsp in adhesion and mechanical stress was studied in dispase assays, after exposure to uniaxial cell stretching and during scratch assay. RESULTS The intestine of DSPΔIEC mice was histopathologically inconspicuous. Intestinal epithelial cells, however, showed an accelerated migration along the crypt and an enhanced shedding into the lumen. Increased intestinal permeability and altered levels of desmosomal proteins were detected. An inconspicuous phenotype also was seen in ΔDsg2/Dsp mice. After dextran sodium sulfate treatment, DSPΔIEC mice developed more pronounced colitis. A retracted keratin network was seen in the intestinal epithelium of DSPΔIEC/keratin 8-yellow fluorescent protein mice and organoids derived from these mice presented a collapsed keratin network. The level, phosphorylation status, and solubility of keratins were not affected. Dsp-deficient HT29 cells had an impaired cell adhesion and suffered from increased cellular damage after stretch. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that Dsp is required for proper keratin network architecture in intestinal epithelia, mechanical resilience, and adhesion, thereby protecting from injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Gross
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Biaohuan Zhou
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Lisa Bewersdorf
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Nicole Schwarz
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Gabriel M. Schacht
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Peter Boor
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Nephrology, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Konrad Hoeft
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Bernd Hoffmann
- Institute of Biological Information Processing 2, Mechanobiology, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Elaine Fuchs
- Robin Chemers Neustein Laboratory of Mammalian Cell Biology and Development, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York
| | - Rafael Kramann
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany,Institute of Experimental Medicine and Systems Biology, Rheinisch-Westfaelische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Rudolf Merkel
- Institute of Biological Information Processing 2, Mechanobiology, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Rudolf E. Leube
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany,Correspondence Address correspondence to: Pavel Strnad, MD, Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, D-52074, Aachen, Germany
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26
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Bernegger S, Vidmar R, Fonovic M, Posselt G, Turk B, Wessler S. Identification of Desmoglein-2 as a novel target of Helicobacter pylori HtrA in epithelial cells. Cell Commun Signal 2021; 19:108. [PMID: 34742300 PMCID: PMC8571890 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-021-00788-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High temperature requirement A (HtrA) is an active serine protease secreted by the group-I carcinogen Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The human cell adhesion protein and tumor suppressor E-cadherin (hCdh1) expressed on the surface of gastric epithelial cells was identified as the first HtrA substrate. HtrA-mediated hCdh1 cleavage and subsequent disruption of intercellular adhesions are considered as important steps in H. pylori pathogenesis. In this study, we performed a proteomic profiling of H. pylori HtrA (HpHtrA) to decipher the complex mechanism of H. pylori interference with the epithelial barrier integrity. RESULTS Using a proteomic approach we identified human desmoglein-2 (hDsg2), neuropilin-1, ephrin-B2, and semaphorin-4D as novel extracellular HpHtrA substrates and confirmed the well characterized target hCdh1. HpHtrA-mediated hDsg2 cleavage was further analyzed by in vitro cleavage assays using recombinant proteins. In infection experiments, we demonstrated hDsg2 shedding from H. pylori-colonized MKN28 and NCI-N87 cells independently of pathogen-induced matrix-metalloproteases or ADAM10 and ADAM17. CONCLUSIONS Characterizing the substrate specificity of HpHtrA revealed efficient hDsg2 cleavage underlining the importance of HpHtrA in opening intercellular junctions. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Bernegger
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Biosciences, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Billroth Str. 11, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Robert Vidmar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Structural Biology, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marko Fonovic
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Structural Biology, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gernot Posselt
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Biosciences, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Billroth Str. 11, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Boris Turk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Structural Biology, Jozef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Silja Wessler
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Biosciences, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Billroth Str. 11, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Cancer Cluster Salzburg and Allergy-Cancer-BioNano Research Centre, University of Salzburg, Billrothstrasse 11, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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27
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Vasquez CG, de la Serna EL, Dunn AR. How cells tell up from down and stick together to construct multicellular tissues - interplay between apicobasal polarity and cell-cell adhesion. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:272658. [PMID: 34714332 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.248757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Polarized epithelia define a topological inside and outside, and hence constitute a key evolutionary innovation that enabled the construction of complex multicellular animal life. Over time, this basic function has been elaborated upon to yield the complex architectures of many of the organs that make up the human body. The two processes necessary to yield a polarized epithelium, namely regulated adhesion between cells and the definition of the apicobasal (top-bottom) axis, have likewise undergone extensive evolutionary elaboration, resulting in multiple sophisticated protein complexes that contribute to both functions. Understanding how these components function in combination to yield the basic architecture of a polarized cell-cell junction remains a major challenge. In this Review, we introduce the main components of apicobasal polarity and cell-cell adhesion complexes, and outline what is known about their regulation and assembly in epithelia. In addition, we highlight studies that investigate the interdependence between these two networks. We conclude with an overview of strategies to address the largest and arguably most fundamental unresolved question in the field, namely how a polarized junction arises as the sum of its molecular parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia G Vasquez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Eva L de la Serna
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Alexander R Dunn
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Biophysics Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.,Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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28
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Bend, Push, Stretch: Remarkable Structure and Mechanics of Single Intermediate Filaments and Meshworks. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081960. [PMID: 34440729 PMCID: PMC8394331 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The cytoskeleton of the eukaryotic cell provides a structural and functional scaffold enabling biochemical and cellular functions. While actin and microtubules form the main framework of the cell, intermediate filament networks provide unique mechanical properties that increase the resilience of both the cytoplasm and the nucleus, thereby maintaining cellular function while under mechanical pressure. Intermediate filaments (IFs) are imperative to a plethora of regulatory and signaling functions in mechanotransduction. Mutations in all types of IF proteins are known to affect the architectural integrity and function of cellular processes, leading to debilitating diseases. The basic building block of all IFs are elongated α-helical coiled-coils that assemble hierarchically into complex meshworks. A remarkable mechanical feature of IFs is the capability of coiled-coils to metamorphize into β-sheets under stress, making them one of the strongest and most resilient mechanical entities in nature. Here, we discuss structural and mechanical aspects of IFs with a focus on nuclear lamins and vimentin.
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29
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Characterization of the strain-rate-dependent mechanical response of single cell-cell junctions. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2019347118. [PMID: 33531347 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2019347118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-cell adhesions are often subjected to mechanical strains of different rates and magnitudes in normal tissue function. However, the rate-dependent mechanical behavior of individual cell-cell adhesions has not been fully characterized due to the lack of proper experimental techniques and therefore remains elusive. This is particularly true under large strain conditions, which may potentially lead to cell-cell adhesion dissociation and ultimately tissue fracture. In this study, we designed and fabricated a single-cell adhesion micro tensile tester (SCAµTT) using two-photon polymerization and performed displacement-controlled tensile tests of individual pairs of adherent epithelial cells with a mature cell-cell adhesion. Straining the cytoskeleton-cell adhesion complex system reveals a passive shear-thinning viscoelastic behavior and a rate-dependent active stress-relaxation mechanism mediated by cytoskeleton growth. Under low strain rates, stress relaxation mediated by the cytoskeleton can effectively relax junctional stress buildup and prevent adhesion bond rupture. Cadherin bond dissociation also exhibits rate-dependent strengthening, in which increased strain rate results in elevated stress levels at which cadherin bonds fail. This bond dissociation becomes a synchronized catastrophic event that leads to junction fracture at high strain rates. Even at high strain rates, a single cell-cell junction displays a remarkable tensile strength to sustain a strain as much as 200% before complete junction rupture. Collectively, the platform and the biophysical understandings in this study are expected to build a foundation for the mechanistic investigation of the adaptive viscoelasticity of the cell-cell junction.
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30
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Inman A, Smutny M. Feeling the force: Multiscale force sensing and transduction at the cell-cell interface. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 120:53-65. [PMID: 34238674 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A universal principle of all living cells is the ability to sense and respond to mechanical stimuli which is essential for many biological processes. Recent efforts have identified critical mechanosensitive molecules and response pathways involved in mechanotransduction during development and tissue homeostasis. Tissue-wide force transmission and local force sensing need to be spatiotemporally coordinated to precisely regulate essential processes during development such as tissue morphogenesis, patterning, cell migration and organogenesis. Understanding how cells identify and interpret extrinsic forces and integrate a specific response on cell and tissue level remains a major challenge. In this review we consider important cellular and physical factors in control of cell-cell mechanotransduction and discuss their significance for cell and developmental processes. We further highlight mechanosensitive macromolecules that are known to respond to external forces and present examples of how force responses can be integrated into cell and developmental programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angus Inman
- Centre for Mechanochemical Cell Biology and Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV47AL, UK
| | - Michael Smutny
- Centre for Mechanochemical Cell Biology and Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV47AL, UK.
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31
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Broussard JA, Koetsier JL, Hegazy M, Green KJ. Desmosomes polarize and integrate chemical and mechanical signaling to govern epidermal tissue form and function. Curr Biol 2021; 31:3275-3291.e5. [PMID: 34107301 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The epidermis is a stratified epithelium in which structural and functional features are polarized across multiple cell layers. This type of polarity is essential for establishing the epidermal barrier, but how it is created and sustained is poorly understood. Previous work identified a role for the classic cadherin/filamentous-actin network in establishment of epidermal polarity. However, little is known about potential roles of the most prominent epidermal intercellular junction, the desmosome, in establishing epidermal polarity, in spite of the fact that desmosome constituents are patterned across the apical to basal cell layers. Here, we show that desmosomes and their associated intermediate filaments (IFs) are key regulators of mechanical polarization in epidermis, whereby basal and suprabasal cells experience different forces that drive layer-specific functions. Uncoupling desmosomes and IF or specific targeting of apical desmosomes through depletion of the superficial desmosomal cadherin, desmoglein 1, impedes basal stratification in an in vitro competition assay and suprabasal tight junction barrier functions in 3D reconstructed epidermis. Surprisingly, disengaging desmosomes from IF also accelerated the expression of differentiation markers, through precocious activation of the mechanosensitive transcriptional regulator serum response factor (SRF) and downstream activation of epidermal growth factor receptor family member ErbB2 by Src family kinase (SFK)-mediated phosphorylation. This Dsg1-SFK-ErbB2 axis also helps maintain tight junctions and barrier function later in differentiation. Together, these data demonstrate that the desmosome-IF network is a critical contributor to the cytoskeletal-adhesive machinery that supports the polarized function of the epidermis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A Broussard
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | | | - Marihan Hegazy
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Kathleen J Green
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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32
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Kitazawa S, Takaoka Y, Ueda Y, Kitazawa R. Identification of calmodulin-like protein 5 as tumor-suppressor gene silenced during early stage of carcinogenesis in squamous cell carcinoma of uterine cervix. Int J Cancer 2021; 149:1358-1368. [PMID: 33997976 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.33687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In the course of identifying the molecular mechanism that is related to strong cell-cell adhesion in stratified structures of the squamous epithelium, calmodulin-like protein 5 (CALML5) was identified as a spinous structure-associated protein by producing monoclonal antibodies with the use of the crude intercellular portion of squamous tissue as an immunogen and by subsequent morphologic screening. By electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and a series of mutagenesis studies, two transcription factors, ZNF750 and KLF4, by binding in line to the CALML5 gene promoter, were found to play a central role in CALML5 transcription. Knockdown of CALML5 by siRNA in the A431 cell line that expresses high levels of CALML5 resulted in the acceleration of wound confluence in a scratch assay, indicating that CALML5 functions as a tumor-suppressor in uterine cervical cancer. Immunohistochemical evaluation of squamous intraepithelial lesions, carcinoma in situ (CIS) and invasive uterine cancer, revealed a reduction in CALML5 expression during the stages of CIS through various molecular pathways including the blockage of the nuclear translocation of KLF4. Conversely, restoration of the nuclear translocation of KLF4 by inhibiting ERK-signaling reactivated CALML5 expression in ME180 cells expressing low levels of CALML5. Thus, alteration of the p63-ZNF750-KLF4 axis may result in critical functional loss of CALM-related genes during cancer progression. Although the morphological association of CALML5 with the spiny-structure in relation to cell motility is not clear, evaluation of CALML5 expression provides a useful diagnostic indicator of differentiating dysplasia, preinvasive and invasive cervical cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohei Kitazawa
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon City, Ehime, Japan
| | - Yuki Takaoka
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon City, Ehime, Japan
| | - Yasuo Ueda
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon City, Ehime, Japan.,Division of Diagnostic Pathology, Ehime University Hospital, Toon City, Ehime, Japan
| | - Riko Kitazawa
- Division of Diagnostic Pathology, Ehime University Hospital, Toon City, Ehime, Japan
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33
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Moch M, Leube RE. Hemidesmosome-Related Keratin Filament Bundling and Nucleation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22042130. [PMID: 33669958 PMCID: PMC7924876 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial cytoskeleton encompasses actin filaments, microtubules, and keratin intermediate filaments. They are interconnected and attached to the extracellular matrix via focal adhesions and hemidesmosomes. To study their interplay, we inhibited actin and tubulin polymerization in the human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT by latrunculin B and nocodazole, respectively. Using immunocytochemistry and time-lapse imaging of living cells, we found that inhibition of actin and tubulin polymerization alone or in combination induced keratin network re-organization albeit differently in each situation. Keratin filament network retraction towards the nucleus and formation of bundled and radial keratin filaments was most pronounced in latrunculin-B treated cells but less in doubly-treated cells and not detectable in the presence of nocodazole alone. Hemidesmosomal keratin filament anchorage was maintained in each instance, whereas focal adhesions were disassembled in the absence of actin filaments. Simultaneous inhibition of actin and tubulin polymerization, therefore, allowed us to dissect hemidesmosome-specific functions for keratin network properties. These included not only anchorage of keratin filament bundles but also nucleation of keratin filaments, which was also observed in migrating cells. The findings highlight the fundamental role of hemidesmosomal adhesion for keratin network formation and organization independent of other cytoskeletal filaments pointing to a unique mechanobiological function.
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Redmond CJ, Coulombe PA. Intermediate filaments as effectors of differentiation. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2020; 68:155-162. [PMID: 33246268 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2020.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
After the initial discovery of intermediate filament (IF)-forming proteins in 1968, a decade would elapse before they were revealed to comprise a diverse group of proteins which undergo tissue-, developmental stage-, differentiation-, and context-dependent regulation. Our appreciation for just how large (n = 70), conserved, complex, and dynamic IF genes and proteins are became even sharper upon completion of the human genome project. While there has been extraordinary progress in understanding the multimodal roles of IFs in cells and tissues, even revealing them as direct causative agents in a broad array of human genetic disorders, the link between individual IFs and cell differentiation has remained elusive. Here, we review evidence that demonstrates a role for IFs in lineage determination, cell differentiation, and tissue homeostasis. A major theme in this review is the function of IFs as sensors and transducers of mechanical forces, intersecting microenvironmental cues and fundamental processes through cellular redox balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine J Redmond
- Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Pierre A Coulombe
- Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA; Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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Abstract
Cadherin-based cell-cell junctions help metazoans form polarized sheets of cells, which are necessary for the development of organs and the compartmentalization of functions. The components of the protein complexes that generate cadherin-based junctions have ancient origins, with conserved elements shared between animals as diverse as sponges and vertebrates. In invertebrates, the formation and function of epithelial sheets depends on classical cadherin-containing adherens junctions, which link actin to the plasma membrane through α-, β- and p120 catenins. Vertebrates also have a new type of cadherin-based intercellular junction called the desmosome, which allowed for the creation of more complex and effective tissue barriers against environmental stress. While desmosomes have a molecular blueprint that is similar to that of adherens junctions, desmosomal cadherins - called desmogleins and desmocollins - link intermediate filaments (IFs) rather than actin to the plasma membrane through protein complexes comprising relatives of β-catenin (plakoglobin) and p120 catenin (plakophilins). In turn, desmosomal catenins interact with members of the IF-binding plakin family to create the desmosome-IF linking complex. In this Minireview, we discuss when and how desmosomal components evolved, and how their ability to anchor the highly elastic and tough IF cytoskeleton endowed vertebrates with robust tissues capable of not only resisting but also properly responding to environmental stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen J Green
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | - Quinn Roth-Carter
- Departments of Pathology and Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Carien M Niessen
- Department of Dermatology, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Stress Responses in Aging-associated Diseases (CECAD), Center for Molecule Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Scott A Nichols
- Department of Biological Sciences, 2101 E. Wesley Ave. SGM 203, University of Denver, CO 80210, USA.
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