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Vlashi R, Sun F, Zheng C, Zhang X, Liu J, Chen G. The molecular biology of NF2/Merlin on tumorigenesis and development. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23809. [PMID: 38967126 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400019rr] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
The neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) gene, known for encoding the tumor suppressor protein Merlin, is central to the study of tumorigenesis and associated cellular processes. This review comprehensively examines the multifaceted role of NF2/Merlin, detailing its structural characteristics, functional diversity, and involvement in various signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Hippo, TGF-β, RTKs, mTOR, Notch, and Hedgehog. These pathways are crucial for cellular growth, proliferation, and differentiation. NF2 mutations are specifically linked to the development of schwannomas, meningiomas, and ependymomas, although the precise mechanisms of tumor formation in these specific cell types remain unclear. Additionally, the review explores Merlin's role in embryogenesis, highlighting the severe developmental defects and embryonic lethality caused by NF2 deficiency. The potential therapeutic strategies targeting these genetic aberrations are also discussed, emphasizing inhibitors of mTOR, HDAC, and VEGF as promising avenues for treatment. This synthesis of current knowledge underscores the necessity for ongoing research to elucidate the detailed mechanisms of NF2/Merlin and develop effective therapeutic strategies, ultimately aiming to improve the prognosis and quality of life for individuals with NF2 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rexhina Vlashi
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fuju Sun
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenggong Zheng
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xingen Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Minimally Invasive Surgery in Orthopaedics & Skeletal Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang Rongjun Hospital, Jiaxing, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Cancer Center, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiaxing, China
| | - Guiqian Chen
- College of Life Science and Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, China
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2
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He Z, Xie L, Liu J, Wei X, Zhang W, Mei Z. Novel insight into the role of A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) in ischemic stroke and therapeutic potentials. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116715. [PMID: 38739993 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116715] [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: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke, a devastating disease associated with high mortality and disability worldwide, has emerged as an urgent public health issue. A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) are a group of signal-organizing molecules that compartmentalize and anchor a wide range of receptors and effector proteins and have a major role in stabilizing mitochondrial function and promoting neurodevelopmental development in the central nervous system (CNS). Growing evidence suggests that dysregulation of AKAPs expression and activity is closely associated with oxidative stress, ion disorder, mitochondrial dysfunction, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) impairment in ischemic stroke. However, the underlying mechanisms remain inadequately understood. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the composition and structure of A-kinase anchoring protein (AKAP) family members, emphasizing their physiological functions in the CNS. We explored in depth the molecular and cellular mechanisms of AKAP complexes in the pathological progression and risk factors of ischemic stroke, including hypertension, hyperglycemia, lipid metabolism disorders, and atrial fibrillation. Herein, we highlight the potential of AKAP complexes as a pharmacological target against ischemic stroke in the hope of inspiring translational research and innovative clinical approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu He
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Letian Xie
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Jiyong Liu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnostics, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Xuan Wei
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China
| | - Wenli Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China.
| | - Zhigang Mei
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province for Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine on Prevention and Treatment of Cardio-Cerebral Diseases, College of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan 410208, China; Third-Grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Chinese Medicine Approved by State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China.
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3
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Tsai FC, Guérin G, Pernier J, Bassereau P. Actin-membrane linkers: Insights from synthetic reconstituted systems. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151402. [PMID: 38461706 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151402] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
At the cell surface, the actin cytoskeleton and the plasma membrane interact reciprocally in a variety of processes related to the remodeling of the cell surface. The actin cytoskeleton has been known to modulate membrane organization and reshape the membrane. To this end, actin-membrane linking molecules play a major role in regulating actin assembly and spatially direct the interaction between the actin cytoskeleton and the membrane. While studies in cells have provided a wealth of knowledge on the molecular composition and interactions of the actin-membrane interface, the complex molecular interactions make it challenging to elucidate the precise actions of the actin-membrane linkers at the interface. Synthetic reconstituted systems, consisting of model membranes and purified proteins, have been a powerful approach to elucidate how actin-membrane linkers direct actin assembly to drive membrane shape changes. In this review, we will focus only on several actin-membrane linkers that have been studied by using reconstitution systems. We will discuss the design principles of these reconstitution systems and how they have contributed to the understanding of the cellular functions of actin-membrane linkers. Finally, we will provide a perspective on future research directions in understanding the intricate actin-membrane interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Ching Tsai
- Institut Curie, Université PSL, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR168, Physics of Cells and Cancer, Paris 75005, France.
| | - Gwendal Guérin
- Institut Curie, Université PSL, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR168, Physics of Cells and Cancer, Paris 75005, France
| | - Julien Pernier
- Tumor Cell Dynamics Unit, Inserm U1279, Gustave Roussy Institute, Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Patricia Bassereau
- Institut Curie, Université PSL, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR168, Physics of Cells and Cancer, Paris 75005, France.
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Borkúti P, Kristó I, Szabó A, Kovács Z, Vilmos P. FERM domain-containing proteins are active components of the cell nucleus. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302489. [PMID: 38296350 PMCID: PMC10830384 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The FERM domain is a conserved and widespread protein module that appeared in the common ancestor of amoebae, fungi, and animals, and is therefore now found in a wide variety of species. The primary function of the FERM domain is localizing to the plasma membrane through binding lipids and proteins of the membrane; thus, for a long time, FERM domain-containing proteins (FDCPs) were considered exclusively cytoskeletal. Although their role in the cytoplasm has been extensively studied, the recent discovery of the presence and importance of cytoskeletal proteins in the nucleus suggests that FDCPs might also play an important role in nuclear function. In this review, we collected data on their nuclear localization, transport, and possible functions, which are still scattered throughout the literature, with special regard to the role of the FERM domain in these processes. With this, we would like to draw attention to the exciting, new dimension of the role of FDCPs, their nuclear activity, which could be an interesting novel direction for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anikó Szabó
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Kovács
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Multidisciplinary Medical Science, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Péter Vilmos
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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Kovács Z, Bajusz C, Szabó A, Borkúti P, Vedelek B, Benke R, Lipinszki Z, Kristó I, Vilmos P. A bipartite NLS motif mediates the nuclear import of Drosophila moesin. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1206067. [PMID: 38450250 PMCID: PMC10915024 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1206067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The ERM protein family, which consists of three closely related proteins in vertebrates, ezrin, radixin, and moesin (ERM), is an ancient and important group of cytoplasmic actin-binding and organizing proteins. With their FERM domain, ERMs bind various transmembrane proteins and anchor them to the actin cortex through their C-terminal F-actin binding domain, thus they are major regulators of actin dynamics in the cell. ERMs participate in many fundamental cellular processes, such as phagocytosis, microvilli formation, T-cell activation and tumor metastasis. We have previously shown that, besides its cytoplasmic activities, the single ERM protein of Drosophila melanogaster, moesin, is also present in the cell nucleus, where it participates in gene expression and mRNA export. Here we study the mechanism by which moesin enters the nucleus. We show that the nuclear import of moesin is an NLS-mediated, active process. The nuclear localization sequence of the moesin protein is an evolutionarily highly conserved, conventional bipartite motif located on the surface of the FERM domain. Our experiments also reveal that the nuclear import of moesin does not require PIP2 binding or protein activation, and occurs in monomeric form. We propose, that the balance between the phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated protein pools determines the degree of nuclear import of moesin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Kovács
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Multidisciplinary Medical Science, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Csaba Bajusz
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anikó Szabó
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | | | - Réka Benke
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Lipinszki
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biochemistry, MTA SZBK Lendület Laboratory of Cell Cycle Regulation, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - Péter Vilmos
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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6
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Pipchuk A, Kelly T, Carew M, Nicol C, Yang X. Development of Novel Bioluminescent Biosensors Monitoring the Conformation and Activity of the Merlin Tumour Suppressor. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1527. [PMID: 38338806 PMCID: PMC10855677 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031527] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Solid tumours can universally evade contact inhibition of proliferation (CIP), a mechanism halting cell proliferation when cell-cell contact occurs. Merlin, an ERM-like protein, crucially regulates CIP and is frequently deactivated in various cancers, indicating its significance as a tumour suppressor in cancer biology. Despite extensive investigations into Merlin's role in cancer, its lack of intrinsic catalytic activity and frequent conformation changes have made it notoriously challenging to study. To address this challenge, we harnessed innovative luciferase technologies to create and validate a NanoBiT split-luciferase biosensor system in which Merlin is cloned between two split components (LgBiT and SmBiT) of NanoLuc luciferase. This system enables precise quantification of Merlin's conformation and activity both in vitro and within living cells. This biosensor significantly enhances the study of Merlin's molecular functions, serving as a potent tool for exploring its contributions to CIP and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xiaolong Yang
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (A.P.); (T.K.); (M.C.); (C.N.)
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Du Y, Bradshaw WJ, Leisner TM, Annor-Gyamfi JK, Qian K, Bashore FM, Sikdar A, Nwogbo FO, Ivanov AA, Frye SV, Gileadi O, Brennan PE, Levey AI, Axtman AD, Pearce KH, Fu H, Katis VL. Discovery of FERM domain protein-protein interaction inhibitors for MSN and CD44 as a potential therapeutic approach for Alzheimer's disease. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105382. [PMID: 37866628 PMCID: PMC10692723 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteomic studies have identified moesin (MSN), a protein containing a four-point-one, ezrin, radixin, moesin (FERM) domain, and the receptor CD44 as hub proteins found within a coexpression module strongly linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD) traits and microglia. These proteins are more abundant in Alzheimer's patient brains, and their levels are positively correlated with cognitive decline, amyloid plaque deposition, and neurofibrillary tangle burden. The MSN FERM domain interacts with the phospholipid phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) and the cytoplasmic tail of CD44. Inhibiting the MSN-CD44 interaction may help limit AD-associated neuronal damage. Here, we investigated the feasibility of developing inhibitors that target this protein-protein interaction. We have employed structural, mutational, and phage-display studies to examine how CD44 binds to the FERM domain of MSN. Interestingly, we have identified an allosteric site located close to the PIP2 binding pocket that influences CD44 binding. These findings suggest a mechanism in which PIP2 binding to the FERM domain stimulates CD44 binding through an allosteric effect, leading to the formation of a neighboring pocket capable of accommodating a receptor tail. Furthermore, high-throughput screening of a chemical library identified two compounds that disrupt the MSN-CD44 interaction. One compound series was further optimized for biochemical activity, specificity, and solubility. Our results suggest that the FERM domain holds potential as a drug development target. Small molecule preliminary leads generated from this study could serve as a foundation for additional medicinal chemistry efforts with the goal of controlling microglial activity in AD by modifying the MSN-CD44 interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Du
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - William J Bradshaw
- Alzheimer's Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine Research Building, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tina M Leisner
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joel K Annor-Gyamfi
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Structural Genomics Consortium, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kun Qian
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Frances M Bashore
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Structural Genomics Consortium, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Arunima Sikdar
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Felix O Nwogbo
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Andrey A Ivanov
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Stephen V Frye
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Opher Gileadi
- Alzheimer's Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine Research Building, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Paul E Brennan
- Alzheimer's Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine Research Building, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Allan I Levey
- Department of Neurology, Emory Goizueta Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Alison D Axtman
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Structural Genomics Consortium, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
| | - Kenneth H Pearce
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
| | - Haian Fu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
| | - Vittorio L Katis
- Alzheimer's Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine Research Building, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Dellbrügge F, Jesse LD, Medyukhina A, Liu N, Neugebauer S, Freißmuth M, Höppener S, Figge MT, Morrison H, Riecken LB, Press AT. Contribution of radixin and ezrin to the maintenance of hepatocytes' excretory function in health and disease. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21009. [PMID: 37928027 PMCID: PMC10623174 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background & aims Excretory liver failure is frequently associated with poor prognosis in critically ill patients. It is characterized by the loss of canalicular membrane export pumps at the hepatocyte membrane. The membrane export pump Multidrug resistant-associated protein (MRP) 2 is pivotal in hepatocytes for brushed membrane morphology and transport of various metabolites. In addition, MRP2 anchoring proteins of the Ezrin/Radixin/Moesin (ERM) family are crucial for the correct MRP2 location, integration, and function in different tissues. In hepatocytes, altered ERM signaling is elementary for developing excretory liver failure. Methods Polarized human HepaRG cells, primary human hepatocytes, and hepatocyte-specific Ezrin knockout mice are employed to investigate ERM expression and function in health and the bile duct ligation model of obstructive cholestasis. Results ERM-scaffolding protein Ezrin has no relevant function in maintaining the canalicular structure in hepatocytes during health and disease. Conclusions Homeostasis of the canalicular pole in hepatocytes is maintained exclusively by Radixin but not Ezrin, and Radixin dysfunction promotes cholestasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Dellbrügge
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07740, Jena, Germany
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07740, Jena, Germany
| | - Lena D. Jesse
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07740, Jena, Germany
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07740, Jena, Germany
| | - Anna Medyukhina
- Research Group Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07740, Jena, Germany
| | - Sophie Neugebauer
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07740, Jena, Germany
| | - Markus Freißmuth
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07740, Jena, Germany
| | - Stephanie Höppener
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich-Schiller University, Fürstengraben 1, 07737, Jena, Germany
| | - Marc T. Figge
- Research Group Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute, Beutenbergstraße 11a, 07745, Jena, Germany
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Friedrich-Schiller University, Fürstengraben 1, 07737, Jena, Germany
| | - Helen Morrison
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Friedrich-Schiller University, Fürstengraben 1, 07737, Jena, Germany
- Leibniz Institute on Aging, Beutenbergstraße 11, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Lars B. Riecken
- Leibniz Institute on Aging, Beutenbergstraße 11, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Adrian T. Press
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07740, Jena, Germany
- Center for Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07740, Jena, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Friedrich-Schiller University, Fürstengraben 1, 07737, Jena, Germany
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9
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García-Solís B, Van Den Rym A, Martinez-Martínez L, Franco T, Pérez-Caraballo JJ, Markle J, Cubillos-Zapata C, Marín AV, Recio MJ, Regueiro JR, Navarro-Zapata A, Mestre-Durán C, Ferreras C, Martín Cotázar C, Mena R, de la Calle-Fabregat C, López-Lera A, Fernández Arquero M, Pérez-Martínez A, López-Collazo E, Sánchez-Ramón S, Casanova JL, Martínez-Barricarte R, de la Calle-Martín O, Pérez de Diego R. Inherited human ezrin deficiency impairs adaptive immunity. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 152:997-1009.e11. [PMID: 37301410 PMCID: PMC11009781 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.05.022] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inborn errors of immunity (IEI) are a group of monogenic diseases that confer susceptibility to infection, autoimmunity, and cancer. Despite the life-threatening consequences of some IEI, their genetic cause remains unknown in many patients. OBJECTIVE We investigated a patient with an IEI of unknown genetic etiology. METHODS Whole-exome sequencing identified a homozygous missense mutation of the gene encoding ezrin (EZR), substituting a threonine for an alanine at position 129. RESULTS Ezrin is one of the subunits of the ezrin, radixin, and moesin (ERM) complex. The ERM complex links the plasma membrane to the cytoskeleton and is crucial for the assembly of an efficient immune response. The A129T mutation abolishes basal phosphorylation and decreases calcium signaling, leading to complete loss of function. Consistent with the pleiotropic function of ezrin in myriad immune cells, multidimensional immunophenotyping by mass and flow cytometry revealed that in addition to hypogammaglobulinemia, the patient had low frequencies of switched memory B cells, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, MAIT, γδ T cells, and centralnaive CD4+ cells. CONCLUSIONS Autosomal-recessive human ezrin deficiency is a newly recognized genetic cause of B-cell deficiency affecting cellular and humoral immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca García-Solís
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics of Human Diseases, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Innate Immunity Group, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Interdepartmental Group of Immunodeficiencies, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Van Den Rym
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics of Human Diseases, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Innate Immunity Group, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Interdepartmental Group of Immunodeficiencies, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Teresa Franco
- Immunology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jareb J Pérez-Caraballo
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tenn; Division of Molecular Pathogenesis, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt Center for Immunobiology, Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tenn
| | - Janet Markle
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tenn; Division of Molecular Pathogenesis, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt Center for Immunobiology, Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tenn
| | - Carolina Cubillos-Zapata
- Innate Immunity Group, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Centre for Biomedical Research Network, CIBEres, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana V Marín
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Complutense University School of Medicine, and 12 de Octubre Health Research Institute (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - María J Recio
- Interdepartmental Group of Immunodeficiencies, Madrid, Spain; Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Complutense University School of Medicine, and 12 de Octubre Health Research Institute (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - José R Regueiro
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Complutense University School of Medicine, and 12 de Octubre Health Research Institute (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Navarro-Zapata
- Translational Research in Paediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Mestre-Durán
- Translational Research in Paediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Ferreras
- Translational Research in Paediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carla Martín Cotázar
- Translational Research in Paediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roció Mena
- Institute of Medical and Molecular Genetics (INGEMM), Hospital Universitario La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Alberto López-Lera
- IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, CIBERER U-754, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Fernández Arquero
- Interdepartmental Group of Immunodeficiencies, Madrid, Spain; Clinical Immunology Department, San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Pérez-Martínez
- Translational Research in Paediatric Oncology, Haematopoietic Transplantation and Cell Therapy, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo López-Collazo
- Innate Immunity Group, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Sánchez-Ramón
- Interdepartmental Group of Immunodeficiencies, Madrid, Spain; Clinical Immunology Department, San Carlos Clinical Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jean-Laurent Casanova
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Infectious Diseases, Necker Branch, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1163, Paris, France; St Giles Laboratory of Human Genetics of Infectious Diseases, Rockefeller Branch, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY; Imagine Institute, University Paris Descartes, Paris, France; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York, NY
| | - Rubén Martínez-Barricarte
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tenn; Division of Molecular Pathogenesis, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt Center for Immunobiology, Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tenn
| | | | - Rebeca Pérez de Diego
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics of Human Diseases, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Innate Immunity Group, IdiPAZ Institute for Health Research, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Interdepartmental Group of Immunodeficiencies, Madrid, Spain.
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10
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Le DDT, Le TPH, Lee SY. PIP5Kγ Mediates PI(4,5)P2/Merlin/LATS1 Signaling Activation and Interplays with Hsc70 in Hippo-YAP Pathway Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14786. [PMID: 37834234 PMCID: PMC10572892 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914786] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The type I phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase (PIP5K) family produces the critical lipid regulator phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) in the plasma membrane (PM). Here, we investigated the potential role of PIP5Kγ, a PIP5K isoform, in the Hippo pathway. The ectopic expression of PIP5Kγ87 or PIP5Kγ90, two major PIP5Kγ splice variants, activated large tumor suppressor kinase 1 (LATS1) and inhibited Yes-associated protein (YAP), whereas PIP5Kγ knockdown yielded opposite effects. The regulatory effects of PIP5Kγ were dependent on its catalytic activity and the presence of Merlin and LATS1. PIP5Kγ knockdown weakened the restoration of YAP phosphorylation upon stimulation with epidermal growth factor or lysophosphatidic acid. We further found that PIP5Kγ90 bound to the Merlin's band 4.1/ezrin/radixin/moesin (FERM) domain, forming a complex with PI(4,5)P2 and LATS1 at the PM. Notably, PIP5Kγ90, but not its kinase-deficient mutant, potentiated Merlin-LATS1 interaction and recruited LATS1 to the PM. Consistently, PIP5Kγ knockdown or inhibitor (UNC3230) enhanced colony formation in carcinoma cell lines YAP-dependently. In addition, PIP5Kγ90 interacted with heat shock cognate 71-kDa protein (Hsc70), which also contributed to Hippo pathway activation. Collectively, our results suggest that PIP5Kγ regulates the Hippo-YAP pathway by forming a functional complex with Merlin and LATS1 at the PI(4,5)P2-rich PM and via interplay with Hsc70.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duong Duy Thai Le
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; (D.D.T.L.); (T.P.H.L.)
| | - Truc Phan Hoang Le
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; (D.D.T.L.); (T.P.H.L.)
| | - Sang Yoon Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ajou University Graduate School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea; (D.D.T.L.); (T.P.H.L.)
- Institute of Medical Science, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
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11
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Mohamed T, Melfi V, Colciago A, Magnaghi V. Hearing loss and vestibular schwannoma: new insights into Schwann cells implication. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:629. [PMID: 37741837 PMCID: PMC10517973 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06141-z] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Hearing loss (HL) is the most common and heterogeneous disorder of the sensory system, with a large morbidity in the worldwide population. Among cells of the acoustic nerve (VIII cranial nerve), in the cochlea are present the hair cells, the spiral ganglion neurons, the glia-like supporting cells, and the Schwann cells (SCs), which alterations have been considered cause of HL. Notably, a benign SC-derived tumor of the acoustic nerve, named vestibular schwannoma (VS), has been indicated as cause of HL. Importantly, SCs are the main glial cells ensheathing axons and forming myelin in the peripheral nerves. Following an injury, the SCs reprogram, expressing some stemness features. Despite the mechanisms and factors controlling their biological processes (i.e., proliferation, migration, differentiation, and myelination) have been largely unveiled, their role in VS and HL was poorly investigated. In this review, we enlighten some of the mechanisms at the base of SCs transformation, VS development, and progression, likely leading to HL, and we pose great attention on the environmental factors that, in principle, could contribute to HL onset or progression. Combining the biomolecular bench-side approach to the clinical bedside practice may be helpful for the diagnosis, prediction, and therapeutic approach in otology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasnim Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Melfi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Colciago
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Valerio Magnaghi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via G. Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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12
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Moesslacher CS, Auernig E, Woodsmith J, Feichtner A, Jany-Luig E, Jehle S, Worseck JM, Heine CL, Stefan E, Stelzl U. Missense variant interaction scanning reveals a critical role of the FERM domain for tumor suppressor protein NF2 conformation and function. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202302043. [PMID: 37280085 PMCID: PMC10244618 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
NF2 (moesin-ezrin-radixin-like [MERLIN] tumor suppressor) is frequently inactivated in cancer, where its NF2 tumor suppressor functionality is tightly coupled to protein conformation. How NF2 conformation is regulated and how NF2 conformation influences tumor suppressor activity is a largely open question. Here, we systematically characterized three NF2 conformation-dependent protein interactions utilizing deep mutational scanning interaction perturbation analyses. We identified two regions in NF2 with clustered mutations which affected conformation-dependent protein interactions. NF2 variants in the F2-F3 subdomain and the α3H helix region substantially modulated NF2 conformation and homomerization. Mutations in the F2-F3 subdomain altered proliferation in three cell lines and matched patterns of disease mutations in NF2 related-schwannomatosis. This study highlights the power of systematic mutational interaction perturbation analysis to identify missense variants impacting NF2 conformation and provides insight into NF2 tumor suppressor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina S Moesslacher
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Auernig
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jonathan Woodsmith
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Feichtner
- Institute of Biochemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Evelyne Jany-Luig
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Stefanie Jehle
- Max-Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics (MPIMG), Otto-Warburg-Laboratory, Berlin, Germany
| | - Josephine M Worseck
- Max-Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics (MPIMG), Otto-Warburg-Laboratory, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian L Heine
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Eduard Stefan
- Institute of Biochemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Tyrolean Cancer Research Institute (TKFI), Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ulrich Stelzl
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- Max-Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics (MPIMG), Otto-Warburg-Laboratory, Berlin, Germany
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
- Field of Excellence BioHealth - University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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13
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Ren M, Zhao L, Ma Z, An H, Marrink SJ, Sun F. Molecular basis of PIP2-dependent conformational switching of phosphorylated CD44 in binding FERM. Biophys J 2023; 122:2675-2685. [PMID: 37218130 PMCID: PMC10397572 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.05.021] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Association of the cellular adhesive protein CD44 and the N-terminal (FERM) domain of cytoskeleton adaptors is critical for cell proliferation, migration, and signaling. Phosphorylation of the cytoplasmic domain (CTD) of CD44 acts as an important regulator of the protein association, but the structural transformation and dynamics mechanism remain enigmatic. In this study, extensive coarse-grained simulations were employed to explore the molecular details in the formation of CD44-FERM complex under S291 and S325 phosphorylation, a modification path known to exert reciprocal effects on the protein association. We find that phosphorylation of S291 inhibits complexation by causing the CTD of CD44 to adopt a more closed structure. In contrast, S325 phosphorylation liberates the CD44-CTD from the membrane surface and promotes the linkage with FERM. The phosphorylation-driven transformation is found to occur in a PIP2-dependent manner, with PIP2 effecting the relative stability of the closed and open conformation, and a replacement of PIP2 by POPS greatly abrogates this effect. The revealed interdependent regulation mechanism by phosphorylation and PIP2 in the association of CD44 and FERM further strengthens our understanding of the molecular basis of cellular signaling and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meina Ren
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Hebei Province, Institute of Biophysics, School of Health Science & Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Lina Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Hebei Province, Institute of Biophysics, School of Health Science & Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Ziyi Ma
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Hebei Province, Institute of Biophysics, School of Health Science & Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Hailong An
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Hebei Province, Institute of Biophysics, School of Health Science & Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China.
| | - Siewert Jan Marrink
- Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Fude Sun
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Hebei Province, Institute of Biophysics, School of Health Science & Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China.
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14
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Du Y, Bradshaw WJ, Leisner TM, Annor-Gyamfi JK, Qian K, Bashore FM, Sikdar A, Nwogbo FO, Ivanov AA, Frye SV, Gileadi O, Brennan PE, Levey AI, Axtman AD, Pearce KH, Fu H, Katis VL. Development of FERM domain protein-protein interaction inhibitors for MSN and CD44 as a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.22.541727. [PMID: 37292860 PMCID: PMC10245921 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.22.541727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Recent genome-wide association studies have revealed genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD) that are exclusively expressed in microglia within the brain. A proteomics approach identified moesin (MSN), a FERM (four-point-one ezrin radixin moesin) domain protein, and the receptor CD44 as hub proteins found within a co-expression module strongly linked to AD clinical and pathological traits as well as microglia. The FERM domain of MSN interacts with the phospholipid PIP2 and the cytoplasmic tails of receptors such as CD44. This study explored the feasibility of developing protein-protein interaction inhibitors that target the MSN-CD44 interaction. Structural and mutational analyses revealed that the FERM domain of MSN binds to CD44 by incorporating a beta strand within the F3 lobe. Phage-display studies identified an allosteric site located close to the PIP2 binding site in the FERM domain that affects CD44 binding within the F3 lobe. These findings support a model in which PIP2 binding to the FERM domain stimulates receptor tail binding through an allosteric mechanism that causes the F3 lobe to adopt an open conformation permissive for binding. High-throughput screening of a chemical library identified two compounds that disrupt the MSN-CD44 interaction, and one compound series was further optimized for biochemical activity, specificity, and solubility. The results suggest that the FERM domain holds potential as a drug development target. The small molecule preliminary leads generated from the study could serve as a foundation for additional medicinal chemistry effort with the goal of controlling microglial activity in AD by modifying the MSN-CD44 interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Du
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - William J. Bradshaw
- Alzheimer’s Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine Research Building, Old Road Campus, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7FZ, UK
| | - Tina M. Leisner
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Joel K. Annor-Gyamfi
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Structural Genomics Consortium, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Kun Qian
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Current address: Chemical Biology Consortium Sweden, Division of Chemical Biology and Genome Engineering, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, 171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Frances M. Bashore
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Structural Genomics Consortium, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Arunima Sikdar
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Felix O. Nwogbo
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Andrey A. Ivanov
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Stephen V. Frye
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Opher Gileadi
- Alzheimer’s Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine Research Building, Old Road Campus, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7FZ, UK
- Current address: Structural Genomics Consortium, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Hospital and Karolinska Institute, 171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paul E. Brennan
- Alzheimer’s Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine Research Building, Old Road Campus, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7FZ, UK
| | - Allan I. Levey
- Department of Neurology, Emory Goizueta Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Center for Neurodegenerative Disease, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | | | - Alison D. Axtman
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Structural Genomics Consortium, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Kenneth H. Pearce
- UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Haian Fu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Emory Chemical Biology Discovery Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Vittorio L. Katis
- Alzheimer’s Research UK Oxford Drug Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine Research Building, Old Road Campus, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7FZ, UK
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15
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Gonzalez-Garcia P, Fiorillo Moreno O, Zarate Peñata E, Calderon-Villalba A, Pacheco Lugo L, Acosta Hoyos A, Villarreal Camacho JL, Navarro Quiroz R, Pacheco Londoño L, Aroca Martinez G, Moares N, Gabucio A, Fernandez-Ponce C, Garcia-Cozar F, Navarro Quiroz E. From Cell to Symptoms: The Role of SARS-CoV-2 Cytopathic Effects in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19 and Long COVID. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098290. [PMID: 37175995 PMCID: PMC10179575 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection triggers various events from molecular to tissue level, which in turn is given by the intrinsic characteristics of each patient. Given the molecular diversity characteristic of each cellular phenotype, the possible cytopathic, tissue and clinical effects are difficult to predict, which determines the heterogeneity of COVID-19 symptoms. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the cytopathic effects of SARS-CoV-2 on various cell types, focusing on the development of COVID-19, which in turn may lead, in some patients, to a persistence of symptoms after recovery from the disease, a condition known as long COVID. We describe the molecular mechanisms underlying virus-host interactions, including alterations in protein expression, intracellular signaling pathways, and immune responses. In particular, the article highlights the potential impact of these cytopathies on cellular function and clinical outcomes, such as immune dysregulation, neuropsychiatric disorders, and organ damage. The article concludes by discussing future directions for research and implications for the management and treatment of COVID-19 and long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ornella Fiorillo Moreno
- Clínica Iberoamerica, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | - Eloina Zarate Peñata
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | | | - Lisandro Pacheco Lugo
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | - Antonio Acosta Hoyos
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | | | - Roberto Navarro Quiroz
- Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Molecular Biology Institute of Barcelona, Spanish National Research Council, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Gustavo Aroca Martinez
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
- School of Medicine, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | - Noelia Moares
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Antonio Gabucio
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Cecilia Fernandez-Ponce
- Institute of Biomedical Research Cadiz (INIBICA), 11009 Cádiz, Spain
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Francisco Garcia-Cozar
- Institute of Biomedical Research Cadiz (INIBICA), 11009 Cádiz, Spain
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Elkin Navarro Quiroz
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
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16
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Senju Y, Hibino E. Moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein merlin: Its conserved and distinct functions from those of ERM proteins. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2023; 1865:184076. [PMID: 36302494 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2022.184076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Senju
- Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (RIIS), Okayama University, Okayama, Japan.
| | - Emi Hibino
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan
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17
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Xu WT, Shi LL, Xu J, Qian H, Zhou H, Wang LH. Ezrin expression in female reproductive tissues: A review of regulation and pathophysiological implications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1125881. [PMID: 36968198 PMCID: PMC10030596 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1125881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ezrin, a plasma membrane-microfilament linker, is a cytoskeletal organizer involved in many cellular activities by binding to the membrane protein-ezrin-cytoskeletal protein complex and regulating downstream signal transduction. Increasing evidence demonstrates that ezrin plays an important role in regulating cell polarity, proliferation and invasion. In this study, we analyzed the effects of ezrin on oocytes, follicle development, embryo development and embryo implantation. We reviewed the recent studies on the modalities of ezrin regulation and its involvement in the biological processes of female reproductive physiology and summarized the current research advances in ezrin inhibitors. These studies will provide new strategies and insights for the treatment of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ting Xu
- Department of Reproduction, Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ling-Li Shi
- Department of Reproduction, Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Xu
- Translational Medical Innovation Center, Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haiqing Qian
- Department of Reproduction, Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huifang Zhou
- Department of Gynaecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Huifang Zhou, ; Li-Hong Wang,
| | - Li-Hong Wang
- Department of Reproduction, Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Zhangjiagang, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- *Correspondence: Huifang Zhou, ; Li-Hong Wang,
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18
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Zhao S, Luo J, Hu J, Wang H, Zhao N, Cao M, Zhang C, Hu R, Liu L. Role of Ezrin in Asthma-Related Airway Inflammation and Remodeling. Mediators Inflamm 2022; 2022:6255012. [PMID: 36530558 PMCID: PMC9750775 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6255012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Ezrin is an actin binding protein connecting the cell membrane and the cytoskeleton, which is crucial to maintaining cell morphology, intercellular adhesion, and cytoskeleton remodeling. Asthma involves dysfunction of inflammatory cells, cytokines, and airway structural cells. Recent studies have shown that ezrin, whose function is affected by extensive phosphorylation and protein interactions, is closely associated with asthma, may be a therapeutic target for asthma treatment. In this review, we summarize studies on ezrin and discuss its role in asthma-related airway inflammation and remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumei Zhao
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jiaqi Luo
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jun Hu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Hesheng Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Ningwei Zhao
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
- Shimadzu Biomedical Research Laboratory, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Meng Cao
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
- Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210028, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Rongkui Hu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Lanying Liu
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China
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Li Y, Wang D, Ge H, Güngör C, Gong X, Chen Y. Cytoskeletal and Cytoskeleton-Associated Proteins: Key Regulators of Cancer Stem Cell Properties. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:1369. [PMID: 36355541 PMCID: PMC9698833 DOI: 10.3390/ph15111369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of cancer cells possessing stemness characteristics that are closely associated with tumor proliferation, recurrence and resistance to therapy. Recent studies have shown that different cytoskeletal components and remodeling processes have a profound impact on the behavior of CSCs. In this review, we outline the different cytoskeletal components regulating the properties of CSCs and discuss current and ongoing therapeutic strategies targeting the cytoskeleton. Given the many challenges currently faced in targeted cancer therapy, a deeper comprehension of the molecular events involved in the interaction of the cytoskeleton and CSCs will help us identify more effective therapeutic strategies to eliminate CSCs and ultimately improve patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqiang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of General Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Heming Ge
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of General Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Cenap Güngör
- Department of General Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Xuejun Gong
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yongheng Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
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Abstract
One of the major challenges of bottom-up synthetic biology is rebuilding a minimal cell division machinery. From a reconstitution perspective, the animal cell division apparatus is mechanically the simplest and therefore attractive to rebuild. An actin-based ring produces contractile force to constrict the membrane. By contrast, microbes and plant cells have a cell wall, so division requires concerted membrane constriction and cell wall synthesis. Furthermore, reconstitution of the actin division machinery helps in understanding the physical and molecular mechanisms of cytokinesis in animal cells and thus our own cells. In this review, we describe the state-of-the-art research on reconstitution of minimal actin-mediated cytokinetic machineries. Based on the conceptual requirements that we obtained from the physics of the shape changes involved in cell division, we propose two major routes for building a minimal actin apparatus capable of division. Importantly, we acknowledge both the passive and active roles that the confining lipid membrane can play in synthetic cytokinesis. We conclude this review by identifying the most pressing challenges for future reconstitution work, thereby laying out a roadmap for building a synthetic cell equipped with a minimal actin division machinery.
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Reibring CG, El Shahawy M, Hallberg K, Harfe BD, Linde A, Gritli-Linde A. Loss of BMP2 and BMP4 Signaling in the Dental Epithelium Causes Defective Enamel Maturation and Aberrant Development of Ameloblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:6095. [PMID: 35682776 PMCID: PMC9180982 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BMP signaling is crucial for differentiation of secretory ameloblasts, the cells that secrete enamel matrix. However, whether BMP signaling is required for differentiation of maturation-stage ameloblasts (MA), which are instrumental for enamel maturation into hard tissue, is hitherto unknown. To address this, we used an in vivo genetic approach which revealed that combined deactivation of the Bmp2 and Bmp4 genes in the murine dental epithelium causes development of dysmorphic and dysfunctional MA. These fail to exhibit a ruffled apical plasma membrane and to reabsorb enamel matrix proteins, leading to enamel defects mimicking hypomaturation amelogenesis imperfecta. Furthermore, subsets of mutant MA underwent pathological single or collective cell migration away from the ameloblast layer, forming cysts and/or exuberant tumor-like and gland-like structures. Massive apoptosis in the adjacent stratum intermedium and the abnormal cell-cell contacts and cell-matrix adhesion of MA may contribute to this aberrant behavior. The mutant MA also exhibited severely diminished tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase activity, revealing that this enzyme's activity in MA crucially depends on BMP2 and BMP4 inputs. Our findings show that combined BMP2 and BMP4 signaling is crucial for survival of the stratum intermedium and for proper development and function of MA to ensure normal enamel maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claes-Göran Reibring
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Institute of Odontology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, SE-40530 Göteborg, Sweden; (C.-G.R.); (M.E.S.); (K.H.); (A.L.)
| | - Maha El Shahawy
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Institute of Odontology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, SE-40530 Göteborg, Sweden; (C.-G.R.); (M.E.S.); (K.H.); (A.L.)
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Minia University, Minia 61511, Egypt
| | - Kristina Hallberg
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Institute of Odontology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, SE-40530 Göteborg, Sweden; (C.-G.R.); (M.E.S.); (K.H.); (A.L.)
| | - Brian D. Harfe
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology Genetics Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
| | - Anders Linde
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Institute of Odontology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, SE-40530 Göteborg, Sweden; (C.-G.R.); (M.E.S.); (K.H.); (A.L.)
| | - Amel Gritli-Linde
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Institute of Odontology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, SE-40530 Göteborg, Sweden; (C.-G.R.); (M.E.S.); (K.H.); (A.L.)
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22
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Ding N, Li P, Li H, Lei Y, Zhang Z. The ROCK-ezrin signaling pathway mediates LPS-induced cytokine production in pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:65. [PMID: 35551614 PMCID: PMC9097379 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00879-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ezrin/radixin/moesin (ERM) proteins are members of the protein 4.1 superfamily and function as linkers that connect the actin cytoskeleton to the plasma membrane of cells. ERM also play critical role in the Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response. However, the signaling mechanisms involved in this process remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential role of the rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase (ROCK) pathway in LPS-induced ezrin phosphorylation and cytokine production in pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells. METHODS Cultured A549 and HPAEpiC cells were treated with LPS. The expression and localization of ezrin in A549 and HPAEpiC cells were then analyzed by western blotting and immunoflurescence. Activation of RhoA/ROCK was assessed by western blotting and RhoA activity assays. The interaction of ezrin with Syk and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)/IL-1R-associated kinase 1 (IRAK-1) was investigated by co-immunoprecipitation. The activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was measured with electrophoretic mobility shift assays and by western blotting. ELISA and western blotting were performed to detect the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) release into the culture supernatant, and cellular HMGB1 levels. RESULTS LPS induced ezrin phosphorylation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. The blockade of RhoA/ROCK inhibited LPS-induced ezrin phosphorylation and its translocation from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane. Co-immunoprecipitation assays further revealed that ezrin associated with Syk constitutively, but only associated with MyD88/IRAK-1 upon LPS challenge. Moreover, LPS-induced p38 and nuclear NF-κB activation was found to be ezrin dependent. The suppression of ezrin by siRNA or the blockade of ROCK activation with Y-27632 reduced the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and HMGB1 in response to LPS. CONCLUSIONS Our findings reveal a novel regulatory mechanism involving ezrin in the LPS-induced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and highlight the importance of the RhoA/ROCK-ezrin/Syk-MyD88/IRAK1 axis. Data presented in this manuscript provide novel insights into the signaling pathways activated in pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells by LPS. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250031, Shandong, China.
| | - Pibao Li
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250031, China
| | - Huiqing Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250031, Shandong, China
| | - Yunlong Lei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250031, Shandong, China
| | - Zengzhen Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shandong Provincial Third Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250031, Shandong, China
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Abstract
Several tissues contain cells with multiple motile cilia that generate a fluid or particle flow to support development and organ functions; defective motility causes human disease. Developmental cues orient motile cilia, but how cilia are locked into their final position to maintain a directional flow is not understood. Here we find that the actin cytoskeleton is highly dynamic during early development of multiciliated cells (MCCs). While apical actin bundles become increasingly more static, subapical actin filaments are nucleated from the distal tip of ciliary rootlets. Anchorage of these subapical actin filaments requires the presence of microridge-like structures formed during MCC development, and the activity of Nonmuscle Myosin II. Optogenetic manipulation of Ezrin, a core component of the microridge actin-anchoring complex, or inhibition of Myosin Light Chain Kinase interfere with rootlet anchorage and orientation. These observations identify microridge-like structures as an essential component of basal body rootlet anchoring in MCCs. Motile cilia beat in a defined direction to orchestrate developmental programs, but also to execute janitorial tasks such as clearing airways. Here they show that motile cilia of the Xenopus epidermis are anchored to microridge-like membrane protrusions to maintain their directionality.
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24
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Wang H, Xiao X, Li Z, Luo S, Hu L, Yi H, Xiang R, Zhu Y, Wang Y, Zhu L, Xiao L, Dai C, Aziz A, Yuan L, Cui Y, Li R, Gong F, Liu X, Liang L, Peng H, Zhou H, Liu J. Polyphyllin VII, a novel moesin inhibitor, suppresses cell growth and overcomes bortezomib resistance in multiple myeloma. Cancer Lett 2022; 537:215647. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Avery L, Robertson TF, Wu CF, Roy NH, Chauvin SD, Perkey E, Vanderbeck A, Maillard I, Burkhardt JK. A Murine Model of X-Linked Moesin-Associated Immunodeficiency (X-MAID) Reveals Defects in T Cell Homeostasis and Migration. Front Immunol 2022; 12:726406. [PMID: 35069520 PMCID: PMC8770857 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.726406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
X-linked moesin associated immunodeficiency (X-MAID) is a primary immunodeficiency disease in which patients suffer from profound lymphopenia leading to recurrent infections. The disease is caused by a single point mutation leading to a R171W amino acid change in the protein moesin (moesinR171W). Moesin is a member of the ERM family of proteins, which reversibly link the cortical actin cytoskeleton to the plasma membrane. Here, we describe a novel mouse model with global expression of moesinR171W that recapitulates multiple facets of patient disease, including severe lymphopenia. Further analysis reveals that these mice have diminished numbers of thymocytes and bone marrow precursors. X-MAID mice also exhibit systemic inflammation that is ameliorated by elimination of mature lymphocytes through breeding to a Rag1-deficient background. The few T cells in the periphery of X-MAID mice are highly activated and have mostly lost moesinR171W expression. In contrast, single-positive (SP) thymocytes do not appear activated and retain high expression levels of moesinR171W. Analysis of ex vivo CD4 SP thymocytes reveals defects in chemotactic responses and reduced migration on integrin ligands. While chemokine signaling appears intact, CD4 SP thymocytes from X-MAID mice are unable to polarize and rearrange cytoskeletal elements. This mouse model will be a valuable tool for teasing apart the complexity of the immunodeficiency caused by moesinR171W, and will provide new insights into how the actin cortex regulates lymphocyte function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsay Avery
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Tanner F. Robertson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Christine F. Wu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Nathan H. Roy
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Samuel D. Chauvin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Eric Perkey
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology and Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Ashley Vanderbeck
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Ivan Maillard
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Janis K. Burkhardt
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Bugda Gwilt K, Thiagarajah JR. Membrane Lipids in Epithelial Polarity: Sorting out the PIPs. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:893960. [PMID: 35712665 PMCID: PMC9197455 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.893960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of cell polarity in epithelia, is critical for tissue morphogenesis and vectorial transport between the environment and the underlying tissue. Epithelial polarity is defined by the development of distinct plasma membrane domains: the apical membrane interfacing with the exterior lumen compartment, and the basolateral membrane directly contacting the underlying tissue. The de novo generation of polarity is a tightly regulated process, both spatially and temporally, involving changes in the distribution of plasma membrane lipids, localization of apical and basolateral membrane proteins, and vesicular trafficking. Historically, the process of epithelial polarity has been primarily described in relation to the localization and function of protein 'polarity complexes.' However, a critical and foundational role is emerging for plasma membrane lipids, and in particular phosphoinositide species. Here, we broadly review the evidence for a primary role for membrane lipids in the generation of epithelial polarity and highlight key areas requiring further research. We discuss the complex interchange that exists between lipid species and briefly examine how major membrane lipid constituents are generated and intersect with vesicular trafficking to be preferentially localized to different membrane domains with a focus on some of the key protein-enzyme complexes involved in these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katlynn Bugda Gwilt
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jay R Thiagarajah
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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27
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Faria M, Domingues R, Bugalho MJ, Silva AL, Matos P. Analysis of NIS Plasma Membrane Interactors Discloses Key Regulation by a SRC/RAC1/PAK1/PIP5K/EZRIN Pathway with Potential Implications for Radioiodine Re-Sensitization Therapy in Thyroid Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5460. [PMID: 34771624 PMCID: PMC8582450 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The functional expression of the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS) at the membrane of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) cells is the cornerstone for the use of radioiodine (RAI) therapy in these malignancies. However, NIS gene expression is frequently downregulated in malignant thyroid tissue, and 30% to 50% of metastatic DTCs become refractory to RAI treatment, which dramatically decreases patient survival. Several strategies have been attempted to increase the NIS mRNA levels in refractory DTC cells, so as to re-sensitize refractory tumors to RAI. However, there are many RAI-refractory DTCs in which the NIS mRNA and protein levels are relatively abundant but only reduced levels of iodide uptake are detected, suggesting a posttranslational failure in the delivery of NIS to the plasma membrane (PM), or an impaired residency at the PM. Because little is known about the molecules and pathways regulating NIS delivery to, and residency at, the PM of thyroid cells, we here employed an intact-cell labeling/immunoprecipitation methodology to selectively purify NIS-containing macromolecular complexes from the PM. Using mass spectrometry, we characterized and compared the composition of NIS PM complexes to that of NIS complexes isolated from whole cell (WC) lysates. Applying gene ontology analysis to the obtained MS data, we found that while both the PM-NIS and WC-NIS datasets had in common a considerable number of proteins involved in vesicle transport and protein trafficking, the NIS PM complexes were particularly enriched in proteins associated with the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. Through a systematic validation of the detected interactions by co-immunoprecipitation and Western blot, followed by the biochemical and functional characterization of the contribution of each interactor to NIS PM residency and iodide uptake, we were able to identify a pathway by which the PM localization and function of NIS depends on its binding to SRC kinase, which leads to the recruitment and activation of the small GTPase RAC1. RAC1 signals through PAK1 and PIP5K to promote ARP2/3-mediated actin polymerization, and the recruitment and binding of the actin anchoring protein EZRIN to NIS, promoting its residency and function at the PM of normal and TC cells. Besides providing novel insights into the regulation of NIS localization and function at the PM of TC cells, our results open new venues for therapeutic intervention in TC, namely the possibility of modulating abnormal SRC signaling in refractory TC from a proliferative/invasive effect to the re-sensitization of these tumors to RAI therapy by inducing NIS retention at the PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcia Faria
- Serviço de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo do CHULN-Hospital Santa Maria, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.F.); (R.D.); (M.J.B.); (A.L.S.)
- BioISI-Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Departamento de Genética Humana, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita Domingues
- Serviço de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo do CHULN-Hospital Santa Maria, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.F.); (R.D.); (M.J.B.); (A.L.S.)
- ISAMB-Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria João Bugalho
- Serviço de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo do CHULN-Hospital Santa Maria, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.F.); (R.D.); (M.J.B.); (A.L.S.)
- Serviço de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo, CHULN and Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Luísa Silva
- Serviço de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo do CHULN-Hospital Santa Maria, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; (M.F.); (R.D.); (M.J.B.); (A.L.S.)
- ISAMB-Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
- Serviço de Endocrinologia, Diabetes e Metabolismo, CHULN and Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Paulo Matos
- BioISI-Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Departamento de Genética Humana, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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Sequences in the cytoplasmic tail of SARS-CoV-2 Spike facilitate expression at the cell surface and syncytia formation. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5333. [PMID: 34504087 PMCID: PMC8429659 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25589-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The Spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 binds ACE2 to direct fusion with host cells. S comprises a large external domain, a transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic tail. Understanding the intracellular trafficking of S is relevant to SARS-CoV-2 infection, and to vaccines expressing full-length S from mRNA or adenovirus vectors. Here we report a proteomic screen for cellular factors that interact with the cytoplasmic tail of S. We confirm interactions with the COPI and COPII vesicle coats, ERM family actin regulators, and the WIPI3 autophagy component. The COPII binding site promotes exit from the endoplasmic reticulum, and although binding to COPI should retain S in the early Golgi where viral budding occurs, there is a suboptimal histidine residue in the recognition motif. As a result, S leaks to the surface where it accumulates and can direct the formation of multinucleate syncytia. Thus, the trafficking signals in the tail of S indicate that syncytia play a role in the SARS-CoV-2 lifecycle.
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29
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Chivasso C, Hagströmer CJ, Rose KL, Lhotellerie F, Leblanc L, Wang Z, Moscato S, Chevalier C, Zindy E, Martin M, Vanhollebeke B, Gregoire F, Bolaky N, Perret J, Baldini C, Soyfoo MS, Mattii L, Schey KL, Törnroth-Horsefield S, Delporte C. Ezrin Is a Novel Protein Partner of Aquaporin-5 in Human Salivary Glands and Shows Altered Expression and Cellular Localization in Sjögren's Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179213. [PMID: 34502121 PMCID: PMC8431299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is an exocrinopathy characterized by the hypofunction of salivary glands (SGs). Aquaporin-5 (AQP5); a water channel involved in saliva formation; is aberrantly distributed in SS SG acini and contributes to glandular dysfunction. We aimed to investigate the role of ezrin in AQP5 mislocalization in SS SGs. The AQP5–ezrin interaction was assessed by immunoprecipitation and proteome analysis and by proximity ligation assay in immortalized human SG cells. We demonstrated, for the first time, an interaction between ezrin and AQP5. A model of the complex was derived by computer modeling and in silico docking; suggesting that AQP5 interacts with the ezrin FERM-domain via its C-terminus. The interaction was also investigated in human minor salivary gland (hMSG) acini from SS patients (SICCA-SS); showing that AQP5–ezrin complexes were absent or mislocalized to the basolateral side of SG acini rather than the apical region compared to controls (SICCA-NS). Furthermore, in SICCA-SS hMSG acinar cells, ezrin immunoreactivity was decreased at the acinar apical region and higher at basal or lateral regions, accounting for altered AQP5–ezrin co-localization. Our data reveal that AQP5–ezrin interactions in human SGs could be involved in the regulation of AQP5 trafficking and may contribute to AQP5-altered localization in SS patients
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Chivasso
- Laboratory of Pathophysiological and Nutritional Biochemistry, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.C.); (F.L.); (L.L.); (F.G.); (N.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Carl Johan Hagströmer
- Division of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden;
| | - Kristie L. Rose
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37240, USA; (K.L.R.); (Z.W.); (K.L.S.)
| | - Florent Lhotellerie
- Laboratory of Pathophysiological and Nutritional Biochemistry, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.C.); (F.L.); (L.L.); (F.G.); (N.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Lionel Leblanc
- Laboratory of Pathophysiological and Nutritional Biochemistry, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.C.); (F.L.); (L.L.); (F.G.); (N.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37240, USA; (K.L.R.); (Z.W.); (K.L.S.)
| | - Stefania Moscato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.); (C.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Clément Chevalier
- Center for Microscopy and Molecular Imaging (CMMI), 6041 Gosselies, Belgium; (C.C.); (E.Z.)
| | - Egor Zindy
- Center for Microscopy and Molecular Imaging (CMMI), 6041 Gosselies, Belgium; (C.C.); (E.Z.)
| | - Maud Martin
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 6041 Gosselies, Belgium; (M.M.); (B.V.)
| | - Benoit Vanhollebeke
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Signaling, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 6041 Gosselies, Belgium; (M.M.); (B.V.)
| | - Françoise Gregoire
- Laboratory of Pathophysiological and Nutritional Biochemistry, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.C.); (F.L.); (L.L.); (F.G.); (N.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Nargis Bolaky
- Laboratory of Pathophysiological and Nutritional Biochemistry, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.C.); (F.L.); (L.L.); (F.G.); (N.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Jason Perret
- Laboratory of Pathophysiological and Nutritional Biochemistry, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.C.); (F.L.); (L.L.); (F.G.); (N.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Chiara Baldini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.); (C.B.); (L.M.)
| | | | - Letizia Mattii
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (S.M.); (C.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Kevin L. Schey
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37240, USA; (K.L.R.); (Z.W.); (K.L.S.)
| | - Susanna Törnroth-Horsefield
- Division of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden;
- Correspondence: (S.T.-H.); (C.D.)
| | - Christine Delporte
- Laboratory of Pathophysiological and Nutritional Biochemistry, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (C.C.); (F.L.); (L.L.); (F.G.); (N.B.); (J.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.T.-H.); (C.D.)
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Lipid Rafts Interaction of the ARID3A Transcription Factor with EZRIN and G-Actin Regulates B-Cell Receptor Signaling. Diseases 2021; 9:diseases9010022. [PMID: 33804610 PMCID: PMC8005928 DOI: 10.3390/diseases9010022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several diseases originate via dysregulation of the actin cytoskeleton. The ARID3A/Bright transcription factor has also been implicated in malignancies, primarily those derived from hematopoietic lineages. Previously, we demonstrated that ARID3A shuttles between the nucleus and the plasma membrane, where it localizes within lipid rafts. There it interacts with components of the B-cell receptor (BCR) to reduce its ability to transmit downstream signaling. We demonstrate here that a direct component of ARID3A-regulated BCR signal strength is cortical actin. ARID3A interacts with actin exclusively within lipid rafts via the actin-binding protein EZRIN, which confines unstimulated BCRs within lipid rafts. BCR ligation discharges the ARID3A-EZRIN complex from lipid rafts, allowing the BCR to initiate downstream signaling events. The ARID3A-EZRIN interaction occurs almost exclusively within unpolymerized G-actin, where EZRIN interacts with the multifunctional ARID3A REKLES domain. These observations provide a mechanism by which a transcription factor directly regulates BCR signaling via linkage to the actin cytoskeleton with consequences for B-cell-related neoplasia.
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Bajusz C, Kristó I, Abonyi C, Venit T, Vedelek V, Lukácsovich T, Farkas A, Borkúti P, Kovács Z, Bajusz I, Marton A, Vizler C, Lipinszki Z, Sinka R, Percipalle P, Vilmos P. The nuclear activity of the actin-binding Moesin protein is necessary for gene expression in Drosophila. FEBS J 2021; 288:4812-4832. [PMID: 33606336 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ezrin-Radixin-Moesin (ERM) proteins play an essential role in the cytoplasm by cross-linking actin filaments with plasma membrane proteins. Research has identified the nuclear localization of ERMs, as well as the involvement of a single Drosophila ERM protein, Moesin, in nuclear mRNA exports. However, the question of how important the nuclear activity of ERM proteins are for the life of an organism has so far not been explored. Here, we present the first attempt to reveal the in vivo relevance of nuclear localization of Moesin in Drosophila. With the help of a nuclear export signal, we decreased the amount of Moesin in the nuclei of the animals. Furthermore, we observed various developmental defects, demonstrating the importance of ERM function in the nucleus for the first time. Transcriptome analysis of the mutant flies revealed that the lack of nuclear Moesin function leads to expression changes in nearly 700 genes, among them heat-shock genes. This result together with additional findings revealed that in Drosophila the expression of protein chaperones requires the nuclear functions of Moesin. DATABASE: GEO accession number: GSE155778.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Bajusz
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Kristó
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Csilla Abonyi
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tomáš Venit
- Biology Program, Science Division, New York University Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | | | - Attila Farkas
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Péter Borkúti
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Multidisciplinary Medical Science, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Kovács
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Multidisciplinary Medical Science, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Izabella Bajusz
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Annamária Marton
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Csaba Vizler
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Lipinszki
- Lendület Laboratory of Cell Cycle Regulation, ELKH, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Rita Sinka
- Department of Genetics, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Piergiorgio Percipalle
- Biology Program, Science Division, New York University Abu Dhabi, UAE.,Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Sweden
| | - Péter Vilmos
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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32
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Moesin Is a Novel Biomarker of Endothelial Injury in Sepsis. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:6695679. [PMID: 33628853 PMCID: PMC7896848 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6695679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Increased vascular permeability and inflammation are principal hallmark of sepsis. Moesin (MSN) is a membrane-associated cytoskeleton protein and crucial for the vascular endothelial function. This study is aimed at evaluating the role of MSN in endothelial injury during the process of sepsis. Methods Serum MSN in septic patients was measured by ELISA. BALB/c mice were injected with different doses of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or underwent cecal ligation and single or double puncture (CLP) to mimic sublethal and lethal sepsis. After treatment, their serum MSN and PCT levels, wet to dry lung weights (W/D ratio), bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) protein concentrations, and lung injury scores were measured. The impact of MSN silencing on LPS-altered Rock1/myosin light chain (MLC), NF-κB, and inflammatory factors in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMECs), as well as monolayer HMEC permeability, was tested in vitro. Results Compared with healthy controls, serum MSN increased in septic patients and was positively correlated with SOFA scores and serum PCT levels in septic patients. LPS injection significantly increased serum the MSN and PCT expression, BALF protein levels, and W/D ratio, and the serum MSN levels were positively correlated with serum PCT, lung W/D ratio, and lung injury scores in mice. Similar results were obtained in the way of CLP modelling. LPS enhanced MSN, MLC, NF-κB phosphorylation, increased Rock1 expression, and inflammatory factors release in the cultured HMECs, while MSN silencing significantly mitigated the LPS-induced Rock1 and inflammatory factor expression, NF-κB, and MLC phosphorylation as well as the monolayer hyperpermeability in HMECs. Conclusions Increased serum MSN contributes to the sepsis-related endothelium damages by activating the Rock1/MLC and NF-κB signaling and may be a potential biomarker for evaluating the severity of sepsis.
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Membrane Homeostasis: The Role of Actin Cytoskeleton. J Indian Inst Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s41745-020-00217-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Hu S, Shi X, Liu Y, He Y, Du Y, Zhang G, Yang C, Gao F. CD44 cross-linking increases malignancy of breast cancer via upregulation of p-Moesin. Cancer Cell Int 2020; 20:563. [PMID: 33292278 PMCID: PMC7686781 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-020-01663-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background CD44 is highly expressed in most cancer cells and its cross-linking pattern is closely related to tumor migration and invasion. However, the underlying molecular mechanism regarding CD44 cross-linking during cancer cell metastasis is poorly understood. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore whether disruption of CD44 cross-linking in breast cancer cells could prevent the cells migration and invasion and determine the effects of CD44 cross-linking on the malignancy of the cancer cells. Methods The expression of CD44, CD44 cross-linking and Moesin phosphorylation in breast cancer cells was assessed by Western Blot assays. Effects of CD44 cross-linking on tumor metastasis were evaluated by Transwell assay. The effects of CD44 cross-linking disruption on cell viability were assessed using CCK-8 assays. The expression of p-Moesin between normal and breast cancer tissues was examined by immunohistochemical staining. Results High expression of CD44 cross-linking was found in invasive breast cancer cells (BT-549 and MDA-MB-231), which is associated with the malignancy of breast cancer. The expressions of ERM complex in a panel of breast cancer cell lines indicate that Moesin and its phosphorylation may play a significant role in cell metastasis. Moesin phosphorylation was inhibited by CD44 de-crosslinking in breast cancer cells and Moesin shRNA knockdown attenuated the promotion of CD44 cross-linking on cell migration and invasion. Finally, immunohistochemistry results demonstrated that p-Moesin was overexpressed in primary and metastatic cancers. Conclusions Our study suggested that CD44 cross-linking could elevate p-Moesin expression and further affect migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. These results also indicate that p-Moesin may be useful in future targeted cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Hu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Xiaoxing Shi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Wujing General Hospital, Shanghai, 201103, China
| | - Yiwen Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Yiqing He
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Yan Du
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Guoliang Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Cuixia Yang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China. .,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China.
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China. .,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, 200233, China.
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Song Y, Ma X, Zhang M, Wang M, Wang G, Ye Y, Xia W. Ezrin Mediates Invasion and Metastasis in Tumorigenesis: A Review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:588801. [PMID: 33240887 PMCID: PMC7683424 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.588801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ezrin, as encoded by the EZR gene, is a member of the Ezrin/Radixin/Moesin (ERM) family. The ERM family includes three highly related actin filament binding proteins, Ezrin, Radixin, and Moesin. These three members share similar structural properties containing an N-terminal domain named FERM, a central helical linker region, and a C-terminal domain that mediates the interaction with F-actin. Ezrin protein is highly regulated through the conformational change between a closed, inactivate form and an open, active form. As a membrane-cytoskeleton linker protein, Ezrin facilitates numerous signal transductions in tumorigenesis and mediates diverse essential functions through interactions with a variety of growth factor receptors and adhesion molecules. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that Ezrin is an oncogene protein, as high levels of Ezrin are associated with metastatic behavior in various types of cancer. The diverse functions attributed to Ezrin and the understanding of how Ezrin drives the deadly process of metastasis are complex and often controversial. Here by reviewing recent findings across a wide spectrum of cancer types we will highlight the structures, protein interactions and oncogenic roles of Ezrin as well as the emerging therapeutic agents targeting Ezrin. This review provides a comprehensive framework to guide future studies of Ezrin and other ERM proteins in basic and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Song
- Central Laboratory, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaokun Ma
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- Central Laboratory, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Menghan Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guoyu Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Ye
- Central Laboratory, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Abstract
Simple Summary Cell migration is an essential process from embryogenesis to cell death. This is tightly regulated by numerous proteins that help in proper functioning of the cell. In diseases like cancer, this process is deregulated and helps in the dissemination of tumor cells from the primary site to secondary sites initiating the process of metastasis. For metastasis to be efficient, cytoskeletal components like actin, myosin, and intermediate filaments and their associated proteins should co-ordinate in an orderly fashion leading to the formation of many cellular protrusions-like lamellipodia and filopodia and invadopodia. Knowledge of this process is the key to control metastasis of cancer cells that leads to death in 90% of the patients. The focus of this review is giving an overall understanding of these process, concentrating on the changes in protein association and regulation and how the tumor cells use it to their advantage. Since the expression of cytoskeletal proteins can be directly related to the degree of malignancy, knowledge about these proteins will provide powerful tools to improve both cancer prognosis and treatment. Abstract Successful metastasis depends on cell invasion, migration, host immune escape, extravasation, and angiogenesis. The process of cell invasion and migration relies on the dynamic changes taking place in the cytoskeletal components; actin, tubulin and intermediate filaments. This is possible due to the plasticity of the cytoskeleton and coordinated action of all the three, is crucial for the process of metastasis from the primary site. Changes in cellular architecture by internal clues will affect the cell functions leading to the formation of different protrusions like lamellipodia, filopodia, and invadopodia that help in cell migration eventually leading to metastasis, which is life threatening than the formation of neoplasms. Understanding the signaling mechanisms involved, will give a better insight of the changes during metastasis, which will eventually help targeting proteins for treatment resulting in reduced mortality and longer survival.
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Omar MH, Scott JD. AKAP Signaling Islands: Venues for Precision Pharmacology. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2020; 41:933-946. [PMID: 33082006 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2020.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory enzymes often have different roles in distinct subcellular compartments. Yet, most drugs indiscriminately saturate the cell. Thus, subcellular drug-delivery holds promise as a means to reduce off-target pharmacological effects. A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) sequester combinations of signaling enzymes within subcellular microdomains. Targeting drugs to these 'signaling islands' offers an opportunity for more precise delivery of therapeutics. Here, we review mechanisms that bestow protein kinase A (PKA) versatility inside the cell, appraise recent advances in exploiting AKAPs as platforms for precision pharmacology, and explore the impact of methodological innovations on AKAP research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell H Omar
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - John D Scott
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
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38
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Havranek B, Islam SM. Prediction and evaluation of deleterious and disease causing non-synonymous SNPs (nsSNPs) in human NF2 gene responsible for neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). J Biomol Struct Dyn 2020; 39:7044-7055. [PMID: 32787631 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2020.1805018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The majority of genetic variations in the human genome that lead to variety of different diseases are caused by non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs). Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a deadly disease caused by nsSNPs in the NF2 gene that encodes for a protein called merlin. This study used various in silico methods, SIFT, Polyphen-2, PhD-SNP and MutPred, to investigate the pathogenic effect of 14 nsSNPs in the merlin FERM domain. The G197C and L234R mutations were found to be two deleterious and disease mutations associated with the mild and severe forms of NF2, respectively. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted to understand the stability, structure and dynamics of these mutations. Both mutant structures experienced larger flexibility compared to the wildtype. The L234R mutant suffered from more prominent structural instability, which may help to explain why it is associated with the more severe form of NF2. The intramolecular hydrogen bonding in L234R mutation decreased from the wildtype, while intermolecular hydrogen bonding of L234R mutation with solvent greatly increased. The native contacts were also found to be important. Protein-protein docking revealed that L234R mutation decreased the binding complementarity and binding affinity of LATS2 to merlin, which may have an impact on merlin's ability to regulate the Hippo signaling pathway. The calculated binding affinity of the LATS2 to L234R mutant and wildtype merlin protein is found to be 21.73 and -11 kcal/mol, respectively. The binding affinity of the wildtype merlin agreed very well with the experimental value, -8 kcal/mol.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Havranek
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Shahidul M Islam
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Porru M, Zizza P, Panera N, Alisi A, Biroccio A, Leonetti C. Harnessing Omics Approaches on Advanced Preclinical Models to Discovery Novel Therapeutic Targets for the Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071830. [PMID: 32650388 PMCID: PMC7408740 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) remains challenging because of the emergence of resistance mechanisms to anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapeutics, so more effective strategies to improve the patients’ outcome are needed. During the last decade, the application of a multi-omics approach has contributed to a deeper understanding of the complex molecular landscape of human CRC, identifying a plethora of drug targets for precision medicine. Target validation relies on the use of experimental models that would retain the molecular and clinical features of human colorectal cancer, thus mirroring the clinical characteristics of patients. In particular, organoids and patient-derived-xenografts (PDXs), as well as genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) and patient-derived orthotopic xenografts (PDOXs), should be considered for translational purposes. Overall, omics and advanced mouse models of cancer represent a portfolio of sophisticated biological tools that, if optimized for use in concert with accurate data analysis, could accelerate the anticancer discovery process and provide new weapons against cancer. In this review, we highlight success reached following the integration of omics and experimental models; moreover, results produced by our group in the field of mCRC are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Porru
- UOSD SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostic, and Technological Innovation, IRCSS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Pasquale Zizza
- UOSD Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostic, and Technological Innovation, IRCSS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Nadia Panera
- Research Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (N.P.); (A.A.)
| | - Anna Alisi
- Research Unit of Molecular Genetics of Complex Phenotypes, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy; (N.P.); (A.A.)
| | - Annamaria Biroccio
- UOSD Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostic, and Technological Innovation, IRCSS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.B.); (C.L.)
| | - Carlo Leonetti
- UOSD SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostic, and Technological Innovation, IRCSS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.B.); (C.L.)
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40
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Beck J, Kressel M. FERM domain-containing protein 6 identifies a subpopulation of varicose nerve fibers in different vertebrate species. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 381:13-24. [PMID: 32200438 PMCID: PMC7306050 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03189-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
FERM domain-containing protein 6 (FRMD6) is a member of the FERM protein superfamily, which is evolutionary highly conserved and has recently been identified as an upstream regulator of the conserved growth-promoting Hippo signaling pathway. In clinical studies, the FRMD6 gene is correlated with high significance to Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairment implicating a wider role of this protein in the nervous system. Scare data are available on the localization of endogenous FRMD6 in neural tissues. Using a FRMD6-directed antiserum, we detected specific immunoreactivity in varicose nerve fibers in the rat central and peripheral nervous system. FRMD6-immunoreactive (-ir) neurons were found in the sensory ganglia of cranial nerves, which were marked by a pool of labeled cytoplasmic granules. Cross-species comparative studies detected a morphologically identical fiber population and a comparable fiber distribution in tissues from xenopus and human cranial nerves and ganglia. In the spinal cord, FRMD6-ir was detectable in the terminal endings of primary afferent neurons containing substance P (SP). In the rat diencephalon, FRMD6-ir was co-localized with either SP- or arginine vasopressin-positive fibers in Broca's diagonal band and the lateral septum. Dense fiber terminals containing both FRMD6-ir and growth hormone-releasing hormone were found in the median eminence. The intimate association of FRMD6 with secretory vesicles was investigated in vitro. Induction of exocytotic vesicles in cultured cells by ectopic expression of the SP precursor molecule preprotachykinin A led to a redistribution and co-localization of endogenous FRMD6 with secretory granules closely mimicking the observations in tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefa Beck
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Erlangen, Krankenhausstr. 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Kressel
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Erlangen, Krankenhausstr. 9, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
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41
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Xue Y, Bhushan B, Mars WM, Bowen W, Tao J, Orr A, Stoops J, Yu Y, Luo J, Duncan AW, Michalopoulos GK. Phosphorylated Ezrin (Thr567) Regulates Hippo Pathway and Yes-Associated Protein (Yap) in Liver. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2020; 190:1427-1437. [PMID: 32289287 PMCID: PMC10069283 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2020.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The activation of CD81 [the portal of entry of hepatitis C virus (HCV)] by agonistic antibody results in phosphorylation of Ezrin via Syk kinase and is associated with inactivation of the Hippo pathway and increase in yes-associated protein (Yap1). The opposite occurs when glypican-3 or E2 protein of HCV binds to CD81. Hepatocyte-specific glypican-3 transgenic mice have decreased levels of phosphorylated (p)-Ezrin (Thr567) and Yap, increased Hippo activity, and suppressed liver regeneration. The role of Ezrin in these processes has been speculated, but not proved. We show that Ezrin has a direct role in the regulation of Hippo pathway and Yap. Forced expression of plasmids expressing mutant Ezrin (T567D) that mimics p-Ezrin (Thr567) suppressed Hippo activity and activated Yap signaling in hepatocytes in vivo and enhanced activation of pathways of β-catenin and leucine rich repeat containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4) and LGR5 receptors. Hepatoma cell lines JM1 and JM2 have decreased CD81 expression and Hippo activity and up-regulated p-Ezrin (T567). NSC668394, a p-Ezrin (Thr567) antagonist, significantly decreased hepatoma cell proliferation. We additionally show that p-Ezrin (T567) is controlled by epidermal growth factor receptor and MET. Ezrin phosphorylation, mediated by CD81-associated Syk kinase, is directly involved in regulation of Hippo pathway, Yap levels, and growth of normal and neoplastic hepatocytes. The finding has mechanistic and potentially therapeutic applications in hepatocyte growth biology, hepatocellular carcinoma, and HCV pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Xue
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Bharat Bhushan
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Wendy M Mars
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - William Bowen
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Junyan Tao
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Anne Orr
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - John Stoops
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Yanping Yu
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Jianhua Luo
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrew W Duncan
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Modification of the Mammalian Endomembrane System in Healthy and Diseased Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21062133. [PMID: 32244909 PMCID: PMC7139828 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21062133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
One remarkable characteristic of eukaryotic cells is the complexity of their membrane systems [...].
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ERM Proteins at the Crossroad of Leukocyte Polarization, Migration and Intercellular Adhesion. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041502. [PMID: 32098334 PMCID: PMC7073024 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ezrin, radixin and moesin proteins (ERMs) are plasma membrane (PM) organizers that link the actin cytoskeleton to the cytoplasmic tail of transmembrane proteins, many of which are adhesion receptors, in order to regulate the formation of F-actin-based structures (e.g., microspikes and microvilli). ERMs also effect transmission of signals from the PM into the cell, an action mainly exerted through the compartmentalized activation of the small Rho GTPases Rho, Rac and Cdc42. Ezrin and moesin are the ERMs more highly expressed in leukocytes, and although they do not always share functions, both are mainly regulated through phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) binding to the N-terminal band 4.1 protein-ERM (FERM) domain and phosphorylation of a conserved Thr in the C-terminal ERM association domain (C-ERMAD), exerting their functions through a wide assortment of mechanisms. In this review we will discuss some of these mechanisms, focusing on how they regulate polarization and migration in leukocytes, and formation of actin-based cellular structures like the phagocytic cup-endosome and the immune synapse in macrophages/neutrophils and lymphocytes, respectively, which represent essential aspects of the effector immune response.
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Shabardina V, Kashima Y, Suzuki Y, Makalowski W. Emergence and Evolution of ERM Proteins and Merlin in Metazoans. Genome Biol Evol 2020; 12:3710-3724. [PMID: 31851361 PMCID: PMC6978628 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evz265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ezrin, radixin, moesin, and merlin are cytoskeletal proteins, whose functions are specific to metazoans. They participate in cell cortex rearrangement, including cell-cell contact formation, and play an important role in cancer progression. Here, we have performed a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of the proteins spanning 87 species. The results describe a possible mechanism for the protein family origin in the root of Metazoa, paralogs diversification in vertebrates, and acquisition of novel functions, including tumor suppression. In addition, a merlin paralog, present in most vertebrates but lost in mammals, has been described here for the first time. We have also highlighted a set of amino acid variations within the conserved motifs as the candidates for determining physiological differences between ERM paralogs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yukie Kashima
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Yutaka Suzuki
- Laboratory of Systems Genomics, Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
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