The ER membrane protein complex is a transmembrane domain insertase

An ER translocon for multi-pass membrane protein biogenesis

Membrane proteins with multiple transmembrane domains play critical roles in cell physiology, but little is known about the machinery coordinating their biogenesis at the endoplasmic reticulum. Here we describe a ~ 360 kDa ribosome-associated complex comprising the core Sec61 channel and five accessory factors: TMCO1, CCDC47 and the Nicalin-TMEM147-NOMO complex. Cryo-electron microscopy reveals a large assembly at the ribosome exit tunnel organized around a central membrane cavity. Similar to protein-conducting channels that facilitate movement of transmembrane segments, cytosolic and luminal funnels in TMCO1 and TMEM147, respectively, suggest routes into the central membrane cavity. High-throughput mRNA sequencing shows selective translocon engagement with hundreds of different multi-pass membrane proteins. Consistent with a role in multi-pass membrane protein biogenesis, cells lacking different accessory components show reduced levels of one such client, the glutamate transporter EAAT1. These results identify a new human translocon and provide a molecular framework for understanding its role in multi-pass membrane protein biogenesis.

An intramembrane chaperone complex facilitates membrane protein biogenesis

Integral membrane proteins are encoded by approximately 25% of all protein-coding genes¹. In eukaryotes, the majority of membrane proteins are inserted, modified and folded at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)². Research over the past several decades has determined how membrane proteins are targeted to the ER and how individual transmembrane domains (TMDs) are inserted into the lipid bilayer³. By contrast, very little is known about how multi-spanning membrane proteins with several TMDs are assembled within the membrane. During the assembly of TMDs, interactions between polar or charged amino acids typically stabilize the final folded configuration^4-8. TMDs with hydrophilic amino acids are likely to be chaperoned during the co-translational biogenesis of membrane proteins; however, ER-resident intramembrane chaperones are poorly defined. Here we identify the PAT complex, an abundant obligate heterodimer of the widely conserved ER-resident membrane proteins CCDC47 and Asterix. The PAT complex engages nascent TMDs that contain unshielded hydrophilic side chains within the lipid bilayer, and it disengages concomitant with substrate folding. Cells that lack either subunit of the PAT complex show reduced biogenesis of numerous multi-spanning membrane proteins. Thus, the PAT complex is an intramembrane chaperone that protects TMDs during assembly to minimize misfolding of multi-spanning membrane proteins and maintain cellular protein homeostasis.

Cancer Cell-Targeted Photosensitizer and Therapeutic Protein Co-Delivery Nanoplatform Based on a Metal-Organic Framework for Enhanced Synergistic Photodynamic and Protein Therapy

Efficient and cancer cell-targeted delivery of photosensitizer (PS) and therapeutic protein has great potentiality for improving the anticancer effects. Herein, zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles, one of the most attractive metal-organic framework materials, were used for coencapsulating the chlorin e6 (Ce6, a potent PS) and cytochrome c (Cyt c, a protein apoptosis inducer); then the nanoparticle was subsequently decorated with the hyaluronic acid (HA) shell to form cancer cell-active targeted nanoplatform (Ce6/Cyt c@ZIF-8/HA). The in vitro and in vivo experiments show the cancer cell targeting capability and pH-responsive decomposition and the release behavior of Ce6/Cyt c@ZIF-8/HA. Upon light irradiation, the released Ce6 produced cytotoxic reactive oxygen species for photodynamic therapy. Meanwhile, the released Cyt c-induced programmed cell death for protein therapy. Furthermore, the Cyt c worked normally under hypoxia conditions and could decompose H2O2 to O2 (with peroxidase-/catalase-like activity), resulting in synergistically improved therapeutic efficiency. These small molecules and protein codelivery nanoplatforms would promote the development of complementary and synergetic modes for biomedical applications.

The ER Membrane Protein Complex Promotes Biogenesis of Dengue and Zika Virus Non-structural Multi-pass Transmembrane Proteins to Support Infection

Although flaviviruses co-opt the function of the host endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane protein complex (EMC) during infection, a mechanistic explanation for this observation remains unclear. Here, we show that the EMC promotes biogenesis of dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) non-structural multi-pass transmembrane proteins NS4A and NS4B, which are necessary for viral replication. The EMC binds to NS4B and colocalizes with the DENV replication organelle. Mapping analysis reveals that the two N-terminal marginally hydrophobic domains of NS4B confer EMC dependency. Furthermore, altering the hydrophobicity of these two marginally hydrophobic domains relieves NS4B’s EMC dependency. We demonstrate that NS4B biogenesis, but not its stability, is reduced in EMC-depleted cells. Our data suggest that the EMC acts as a multi-pass transmembrane chaperone required for expression of at least two virally encoded proteins essential for flavivirus infection and point to a shared vulnerability during the viral life cycle that could be exploited for antiviral therapy.

Multiple genetic screens have identified the ER membrane protein complex (EMC) as essential for infection by dengue and Zika flaviviruses. Lin et al. demonstrate that efficient biogenesis of the viral non-structural proteins NS4A and NS4B requires the EMC.

Correlation between Single-Molecule Dynamics and Biological Functions of Antimicrobial Peptide Melittin

Many fundamental biological processes occur on cell membranes, and a typical example is the membrane permeabilization by peptides for an antimicrobial purpose. Previous studies of the underlying mechanism mostly focus on structural changes of membranes and peptides during their interactions. Herein, from a new perspective of single-molecule dynamics, the real-time three-dimensional motions of individual phospholipid and peptide molecules were monitored, and specifically, their correlation with the membrane poration function of melittin, a most representative natural antimicrobial peptide, was studied. We found that the adsorption and accumulation of melittin on the membrane surface significantly sped up the lateral diffusion of lipids surrounding the peptides, which in turn facilitated the peptide insertion at such heterogeneous regions. A unique "U"-bending pathway of melittin during membrane insertion and the ultimate formation of toroidal pores with dynamical translocations of peptides and lipids with several metastable states between the two leaflets of bilayer were observed.

Structure of the ER membrane complex, a transmembrane-domain insertase

The ER membrane complex (EMC) cooperates with the Sec61 translocon to co-translationally insert a transmembrane helix (TMH) of many multi-pass integral membrane proteins into the ER membrane, and it is also responsible for inserting the TMH of some tail-anchored proteins ^1–3. How EMC accomplishes this feat has been unclear. Here we report the first cryo-EM structure of the eukaryotic EMC. We found that the Saccharomyces cerevisiae EMC contains eight subunits (Emc1–6, 7, and 10); has a large lumenal region and a smaller cytosolic region; and has a transmembrane region formed by Emc4, 5, and 6 plus the transmembrane domains (TMDs) of Emc1 and 3. We identified a 5-TMH fold centered around Emc3 that resembles the prokaryotic insertase YidC and that delineates a largely hydrophilic client pocket. The TMD of Emc4 tilts away from the main transmembrane region of EMC and is partially mobile. Mutational studies demonstrated that Emc4 flexibility and the hydrophilicity of the client pocket are required for EMC function. The EMC structure reveals a remarkable evolutionary conservation with the prokaryotic insertases ^4,5; suggests a similar mechanism of TMH insertion; and provides a framework for detailed understanding of membrane insertion for numerous eukaryotic integral membrane proteins and tail-anchored proteins.

The architecture of EMC reveals a path for membrane protein insertion

Approximately 25% of eukaryotic genes code for integral membrane proteins that are assembled at the endoplasmic reticulum. An abundant and widely conserved multi-protein complex termed EMC has been implicated in membrane protein biogenesis, but its mechanism of action is poorly understood. Here, we define the composition and architecture of human EMC using biochemical assays, crystallography of individual subunits, site-specific photocrosslinking, and cryo-EM reconstruction. Our results suggest that EMC's cytosolic domain contains a large, moderately hydrophobic vestibule that can bind a substrate's transmembrane domain (TMD). The cytosolic vestibule leads into a lumenally-sealed, lipid-exposed intramembrane groove large enough to accommodate a single substrate TMD. A gap between the cytosolic vestibule and intramembrane groove provides a potential path for substrate egress from EMC. These findings suggest how EMC facilitates energy-independent membrane insertion of TMDs, explain why only short lumenal domains are translocated by EMC, and constrain models of EMC's proposed chaperone function.

Structural basis for membrane insertion by the human ER membrane protein complex

A defining step in the biogenesis of a membrane protein is the insertion of its hydrophobic transmembrane helices into the lipid bilayer. The nine-subunit endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane protein complex (EMC) is a conserved co- and posttranslational insertase at the ER. We determined the structure of the human EMC in a lipid nanodisc to an overall resolution of 3.4 angstroms by cryo-electron microscopy, permitting building of a nearly complete atomic model. We used structure-guided mutagenesis to demonstrate that substrate insertion requires a methionine-rich cytosolic loop and occurs via an enclosed hydrophilic vestibule within the membrane formed by the subunits EMC3 and EMC6. We propose that the EMC uses local membrane thinning and a positively charged patch to decrease the energetic barrier for insertion into the bilayer.

N-glycosylation of α1D-adrenergic receptor N-terminal domain is required for correct trafficking, function, and biogenesis

G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) biogenesis, trafficking, and function are regulated by post-translational modifications, including N-glycosylation of asparagine residues. α1D-adrenergic receptors (α1D-ARs) - key regulators of central and autonomic nervous system function - contain two putative N-glycosylation sites within the large N-terminal domain at N65 and N82. However, determining the glycosylation state of this receptor has proven challenging. Towards understanding the role of these putative glycosylation sites, site-directed mutagenesis and lectin affinity purification identified N65 and N82 as bona fide acceptors for N-glycans. Surprisingly, we also report that simultaneously mutating N65 and N82 causes early termination of α1D-AR between transmembrane domain 2 and 3. Label-free dynamic mass redistribution and cell surface trafficking assays revealed that single and double glycosylation deficient mutants display limited function with impaired plasma membrane expression. Confocal microscopy imaging analysis and SNAP-tag sucrose density fractionation assays revealed the dual glycosylation mutant α1D-AR is widely distributed throughout the cytosol and nucleus. Based on these novel findings, we propose α1D-AR transmembrane domain 2 acts as an ER localization signal during active protein biogenesis, and that α1D-AR N-terminal glycosylation is required for complete translation of nascent, functional receptor.

Squaring the EMC - how promoting membrane protein biogenesis impacts cellular functions and organismal homeostasis

Integral membrane proteins play key functional roles at organelles and the plasma membrane, necessitating their efficient and accurate biogenesis to ensure appropriate targeting and activity. The endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex (EMC) has recently emerged as an important eukaryotic complex for biogenesis of integral membrane proteins by promoting insertion and stability of atypical and sub-optimal transmembrane domains (TMDs). Although confirmed as a bona fide complex almost a decade ago, light is just now being shed on the mechanism and selectivity underlying the cellular responsibilities of the EMC. In this Review, we revisit the myriad of functions attributed the EMC through the lens of these new mechanistic insights, to address questions of the cellular and organismal roles the EMC has evolved to undertake.

Summary: The EMC is an important factor facilitating membrane protein biogenesis. Here we discuss the broad cellular and organismal responsibilities overseen by client proteins requiring the EMC for maturation.

A Translocation Pathway for Vesicle-Mediated Unconventional Protein Secretion

Many cytosolic proteins lacking a signal peptide, called leaderless cargoes, are secreted through unconventional secretion. Vesicle trafficking is a major pathway involved. It is unclear how leaderless cargoes enter into the vesicle. Here, we find a translocation pathway regulating vesicle entry and secretion of leaderless cargoes. We identify TMED10 as a protein channel for the vesicle entry and secretion of many leaderless cargoes. The interaction of TMED10 C-terminal region with a motif in the cargo accounts for the selective release of the cargoes. In an in vitro reconstitution assay, TMED10 directly mediates the membrane translocation of leaderless cargoes into the liposome, which is dependent on protein unfolding and enhanced by HSP90s. In the cell, TMED10 localizes on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi intermediate compartment and directs the entry of cargoes into this compartment. Furthermore, cargo induces the formation of TMED10 homo-oligomers which may act as a protein channel for cargo translocation.

SGTA associates with nascent membrane protein precursors

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a major site for membrane protein synthesis in eukaryotes. The majority of integral membrane proteins are delivered to the ER membrane via the co‐translational, signal recognition particle (SRP)‐dependent route. However, tail‐anchored proteins employ an alternative, post‐translational route(s) that relies on distinct factors such as a cytosolic protein quality control component, SGTA. We now show that SGTA is selectively recruited to ribosomes synthesising a diverse range of membrane proteins, suggesting that its biosynthetic client base also includes precursors on the co‐translational ER delivery pathway. Strikingly, SGTA is recruited to nascent membrane proteins before their transmembrane domain emerges from the ribosome. Hence, SGTA is ideally placed to capture these aggregation prone regions shortly after their synthesis. For nascent membrane proteins on the co‐translational pathway, SGTA complements the role of SRP by reducing the co‐translational ubiquitination of clients with multiple hydrophobic signal sequences. On this basis, we propose that SGTA acts to mask specific transmembrane domains located in complex membrane proteins until they can engage the ER translocon and become membrane inserted.

A Genome-Wide CRISPR-Cas9 Screen Identifies the Dolichol-Phosphate Mannose Synthase Complex as a Host Dependency Factor for Dengue Virus Infection

Dengue virus (DENV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus responsible for dengue disease, a major human health concern for which no specific therapies are available. Like other viruses, DENV relies heavily on the host cellular machinery for productive infection. In this study, we performed a genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screen using haploid HAP1 cells to identify host genes important for DENV infection. We identified DPM1 and -3, two subunits of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) resident dolichol-phosphate mannose synthase (DPMS) complex, as host dependency factors for DENV and other related flaviviruses, such as Zika virus (ZIKV). The DPMS complex catalyzes the synthesis of dolichol-phosphate mannose (DPM), which serves as mannosyl donor in pathways leading to N-glycosylation, glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor biosynthesis, and C- or O-mannosylation of proteins in the ER lumen. Mutation in the DXD motif of DPM1, which is essential for its catalytic activity, abolished DPMS-mediated DENV infection. Similarly, genetic ablation of ALG3, a mannosyltransferase that transfers mannose to lipid-linked oligosaccharide (LLO), rendered cells poorly susceptible to DENV. We also established that in cells deficient for DPMS activity, viral RNA amplification is hampered and truncated oligosaccharides are transferred to the viral prM and E glycoproteins, affecting their proper folding. Overall, our study provides new insights into the host-dependent mechanisms of DENV infection and supports current therapeutic approaches using glycosylation inhibitors to treat DENV infection.IMPORTANCE Dengue disease, which is caused by dengue virus (DENV), has emerged as the most important mosquito-borne viral disease in humans and is a major global health concern. DENV encodes only few proteins and relies on the host cell machinery to accomplish its life cycle. The identification of the host factors important for DENV infection is needed to propose new targets for antiviral intervention. Using a genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screen, we identified DPM1 and -3, two subunits of the DPMS complex, as important host factors for the replication of DENV as well as other related viruses such as Zika virus. We established that DPMS complex plays dual roles during viral infection, both regulating viral RNA replication and promoting viral structural glycoprotein folding/stability. These results provide insights into the host molecules exploited by DENV and other flaviviruses to facilitate their life cycle.

Selective EMC subunits act as molecular tethers of intracellular organelles exploited during viral entry

Although viruses must navigate the complex host endomembrane system to infect cells, the strategies used to achieve this is unclear. During entry, polyomavirus SV40 is sorted from the late endosome (LE) to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to cause infection, yet how this is accomplished remains enigmatic. Here we find that EMC4 and EMC7, two ER membrane protein complex (EMC) subunits, support SV40 infection by promoting LE-to-ER targeting of the virus. They do this by engaging LE-associated Rab7, presumably to stabilize contact between the LE and ER. These EMC subunits also bind to the ER-resident fusion machinery component syntaxin18, which is required for SV40-arrival to the ER. Our data suggest that EMC4 and EMC7 act as molecular tethers, inter-connecting two intracellular compartments to enable efficient transport of a virus between these compartments. As LE-to-ER transport of cellular cargos is unclear, our results have broad implications for illuminating inter-organelle cargo transport.

The endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex (EMC) is known to play a role in SV40 viral infection but precise mechanisms are unclear. Here, the authors report that the EMC acts as tether of late endosome–endoplasmic reticulum interorganellar membrane contact sites to promote SV40 viral infection.

Natural products as modulators of eukaryotic protein secretion

Covering: up to the end of 2019Diverse natural product small molecules have allowed critical insights into processes that govern eukaryotic cells' ability to secrete cytosolically synthesized secretory proteins into their surroundings or to insert newly synthesized integral membrane proteins into the lipid bilayer of the endoplasmic reticulum. In addition, many components of the endoplasmic reticulum, required for protein homeostasis or other processes such as lipid metabolism or maintenance of calcium homeostasis, are being investigated for their potential in modulating human disease conditions such as cancer, neurodegenerative conditions and diabetes. In this review, we cover recent findings up to the end of 2019 on natural products that influence protein secretion or impact ER protein homeostasis, and serve as powerful chemical tools to understand protein flux through the mammalian secretory pathway and as leads for the discovery of new therapeutics.

Sec translocon has an insertase-like function in addition to polypeptide conduction through the channel

The Sec translocon provides a polypeptide-conducting channel, which is insulated from the hydrophobic lipidic environment of the membrane, for translocation of hydrophilic passenger polypeptides. Its lateral gate allows a downstream hydrophobic segment (stop-transfer sequence) to exit the channel laterally for integration into the lipid phase. We note that this channel model only partly accounts for the translocon function. The other essential role of translocon is to facilitate de novo insertion of the N-terminal topogenic segment of a substrate polypeptide into the membrane. Recent structural studies suggest that de novo insertion does not use the polypeptide-conducting channel; instead, it takes place directly at the lateral gate, which is prone to opening. We propose that the de novo insertion process, in concept, is similar to that of insertases (such as YidC in bacteria and EMC3 in eukaryotes), in which an intramembrane surface of the machinery provides the halfway point of insertion.

A clearer picture of the ER translocon complex

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) translocon complex is the main gate into the secretory pathway, facilitating the translocation of nascent peptides into the ER lumen or their integration into the lipid membrane. Protein biogenesis in the ER involves additional processes, many of them occurring co-translationally while the nascent protein resides at the translocon complex, including recruitment of ER-targeted ribosome-nascent-chain complexes, glycosylation, signal peptide cleavage, membrane protein topogenesis and folding. To perform such varied functions on a broad range of substrates, the ER translocon complex has different accessory components that associate with it either stably or transiently. Here, we review recent structural and functional insights into this dynamically constituted central hub in the ER and its components. Recent cryo-electron microscopy (EM) studies have dissected the molecular organization of the co-translational ER translocon complex, comprising the Sec61 protein-conducting channel, the translocon-associated protein complex and the oligosaccharyl transferase complex. Complemented by structural characterization of the post-translational import machinery, key molecular principles emerge that distinguish co- and post-translational protein import and biogenesis. Further cryo-EM structures promise to expand our mechanistic understanding of the various biochemical functions involving protein biogenesis and quality control in the ER.

The Ways of Tails: the GET Pathway and more

Due to their topology tail-anchored (TA) proteins must target to the membrane independently of the co-translational route defined by the signal sequence recognition particle (SRP), its receptor and the translocon Sec61. More than a decade of work has extensively characterized a highly conserved pathway, the yeast GET or mammalian TRC40 pathway, which is capable of countering the biogenetic challenge posed by the C-terminal TA anchor. In this review we briefly summarize current models of this targeting route and focus on emerging aspects such as the intricate interplay with the proteostatic network of cells and with other targeting pathways. Importantly, we consider the lessons provided by the in vivo analysis of the pathway in different model organisms and by the consideration of its full client spectrum in more recent studies. This analysis of the state of the field highlights directions in which the current models may be experimentally probed and conceptually extended.

Pre-emptive Quality Control of a Misfolded Membrane Protein by Ribosome-Driven Effects

Cells possess multiple mechanisms that protect against the accumulation of toxic aggregation-prone proteins. Here, we identify a pre-emptive pathway that reduces synthesis of membrane proteins that have failed to properly assemble in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We show that loss of the ER membrane complex (EMC) or mutation of the Sec61 translocon causes reduced synthesis of misfolded forms of the yeast ABC transporter Yor1. Synthesis defects are rescued by various ribosomal mutations, as well as by reducing cellular ribosome abundance. Genetic and biochemical evidence point to a ribosome-associated quality-control pathway triggered by ribosome collisions when membrane domain insertion and/or folding fails. In support of this model, translation initiation also contributes to synthesis defects, likely by modulating ribosome abundance on the message. Examination of translation efficiency across the yeast membrane proteome revealed that polytopic membrane proteins have relatively low ribosome abundance, providing evidence for translational tuning to balance protein synthesis and folding. We propose that by modulating translation rates of poorly folded proteins, cells can pre-emptively protect themselves from potentially toxic aberrant transmembrane proteins.

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Yor1-ΔF shows synthesis defects when Sec61 or EMC function is compromised

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Synthesis defects are suppressed by ribosomal and RQC mutants

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Translation initiation is a second point of potential regulation

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Pre-emptive quality control on the ER might protect the cell from aberrant proteins

Guiding tail-anchored membrane proteins to the endoplasmic reticulum in a chaperone cascade

Newly synthesized integral membrane proteins must traverse the aqueous cytosolic environment before arrival at their membrane destination and are prone to aggregation, misfolding, and mislocalization during this process. The biogenesis of integral membrane proteins therefore poses acute challenges to protein homeostasis within a cell and requires the action of effective molecular chaperones. Chaperones that mediate membrane protein targeting not only need to protect the nascent transmembrane domains from improper exposure in the cytosol, but also need to accurately select client proteins and actively guide their clients to the appropriate target membrane. The mechanisms by which cellular chaperones work together to coordinate this complex process are only beginning to be delineated. Here, we summarize recent advances in studies of the tail-anchored membrane protein targeting pathway, which revealed a network of chaperones, cochaperones, and targeting factors that together drive and regulate this essential process. This pathway is emerging as an excellent model system to decipher the mechanism by which molecular chaperones overcome the multiple challenges during post-translational membrane protein biogenesis and to gain insights into the functional organization of multicomponent chaperone networks.

Recognition and Degradation of Mislocalized Proteins in Health and Disease

A defining feature of eukaryotic cells is the segregation of complex biochemical processes among different intracellular compartments. The protein targeting, translocation, and trafficking pathways that sustain compartmentalization must recognize a diverse range of clients via degenerate signals. This recognition is imperfect, resulting in polypeptides at incorrect cellular locations. Cells have evolved mechanisms to selectively recognize mislocalized proteins and triage them for degradation or rescue. These spatial quality control pathways maintain cellular protein homeostasis, become especially important during organelle stress, and might contribute to disease when they are impaired or overwhelmed.

Retro-2 protects cells from ricin toxicity by inhibiting ASNA1-mediated ER targeting and insertion of tail-anchored proteins

The small molecule Retro-2 prevents ricin toxicity through a poorly-defined mechanism of action (MOA), which involves halting retrograde vesicle transport to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). CRISPRi genetic interaction analysis revealed Retro-2 activity resembles disruption of the transmembrane domain recognition complex (TRC) pathway, which mediates post-translational ER-targeting and insertion of tail-anchored (TA) proteins, including SNAREs required for retrograde transport. Cell-based and in vitro assays show that Retro-2 blocks delivery of newly-synthesized TA-proteins to the ER-targeting factor ASNA1 (TRC40). An ASNA1 point mutant identified using CRISPR-mediated mutagenesis abolishes both the cytoprotective effect of Retro-2 against ricin and its inhibitory effect on ASNA1-mediated ER-targeting. Together, our work explains how Retro-2 prevents retrograde trafficking of toxins by inhibiting TA-protein targeting, describes a general CRISPR strategy for predicting the MOA of small molecules, and paves the way for drugging the TRC pathway to treat broad classes of viruses known to be inhibited by Retro-2.

Distinct Requirements for Tail-Anchored Membrane Protein Biogenesis in Escherichia coli

A subset of membrane proteins is targeted to and inserted into the membrane via a hydrophobic transmembrane domain (TMD) that is positioned at the very C terminus of the protein. The biogenesis of these so-called tail-anchored proteins (TAMPs) has been studied in detail in eukaryotic cells. Various partly redundant pathways were identified, the choice for which depends in part on the hydrophobicity of the TMD. Much less is known about bacterial TAMPs. The significance of our research is in identifying the role of TMD hydrophobicity in the routing of E. coli TAMPs. Our data suggest that both the nature of the TMD and its role in routing can be very different for TAMPs versus “regular” membrane proteins. Elucidating these position-specific effects of TMDs will increase our understanding of how prokaryotic cells face the challenge of producing a wide variety of membrane proteins.

Tail-anchored membrane proteins (TAMPs) are a distinct subset of inner membrane proteins (IMPs) characterized by a single C-terminal transmembrane domain (TMD) that is responsible for both targeting and anchoring. Little is known about the routing of TAMPs in bacteria. Here, we have investigated the role of TMD hydrophobicity in tail-anchor function in Escherichia coli and its influence on the choice of targeting/insertion pathway. We created a set of synthetic, fluorescent TAMPs that vary in the hydrophobicity of their TMDs and corresponding control polypeptides that are extended at their C terminus to create regular type II IMPs. Surprisingly, we observed that TAMPs have a much lower TMD hydrophobicity threshold for efficient targeting and membrane insertion than their type II counterparts. Using strains conditional for the expression of known membrane-targeting and insertion factors, we show that TAMPs with strongly hydrophobic TMDs require the signal recognition particle (SRP) for targeting. Neither the SecYEG translocon nor YidC appears to be essential for the membrane insertion of any of the TAMPs studied. In contrast, corresponding type II IMPs with a TMD of sufficient hydrophobicity to promote membrane insertion followed an SRP- and SecYEG translocon-dependent pathway. Together, these data indicate that the capacity of a TMD to promote the biogenesis of E. coli IMPs is strongly dependent upon the polypeptide context in which it is presented.

Transmembrane Domain Recognition during Membrane Protein Biogenesis and Quality Control

One-fourth of eukaryotic genes code for integral membrane proteins, nearly all of which are inserted and assembled at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The defining feature of membrane proteins is one or more transmembrane domains (TMDs). During membrane protein biogenesis, TMDs are selectively recognized, shielded, and chaperoned into the lipid bilayer, where they often assemble with other TMDs. If maturation fails, exposed TMDs serve as a cue for engagement of degradation pathways. Thus, TMD-recognition factors in the cytosol and ER are essential for membrane protein biogenesis and quality control. Here, we discuss the growing assortment of cytosolic and membrane-embedded TMD-recognition factors, the pathways within which they operate, and mechanistic principles of recognition.

Genetic interaction networks mediate individual statin drug response in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Eukaryotic genetic interaction networks (GINs) are extensively described in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae S288C model using deletion libraries, yet being limited to this one genetic background, not informative to individual drug response. Here we created deletion libraries in three additional genetic backgrounds. Statin response was probed with five queries against four genetic backgrounds. The 20 resultant GINs representing drug-gene and gene-gene interactions were not conserved by functional enrichment, hierarchical clustering, and topology-based community partitioning. An unfolded protein response (UPR) community exhibited genetic background variation including different betweenness genes that were network bottlenecks, and we experimentally validated this UPR community via measurements of the UPR that were differentially activated and regulated in statin-resistant strains relative to the statin-sensitive S288C background. These network analyses by topology and function provide insight into the complexity of drug response influenced by genetic background.

The molecular mechanism of cotranslational membrane protein recognition and targeting by SecA

Cotranslational protein targeting is a conserved process for membrane protein biogenesis. In Escherichia coli, the essential ATPase SecA was found to cotranslationally target a subset of nascent membrane proteins to the SecYEG translocase at the plasma membrane. The molecular mechanism of this pathway remains unclear. Here we use biochemical and cryoelectron microscopy analyses to show that the amino-terminal amphipathic helix of SecA and the ribosomal protein uL23 form a composite binding site for the transmembrane domain (TMD) on the nascent protein. This binding mode further enables recognition of charged residues flanking the nascent TMD and thus explains the specificity of SecA recognition. Finally, we show that membrane-embedded SecYEG promotes handover of the translating ribosome from SecA to the translocase via a concerted mechanism. Our work provides a molecular description of the SecA-mediated cotranslational targeting pathway and demonstrates an unprecedented role of the ribosome in shielding nascent TMDs.

ER membrane protein complex is required for the insertions of late-synthesized transmembrane helices of Rh1 in Drosophila photoreceptors

Most membrane proteins are synthesized on and inserted into the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), in eukaryote. The widely conserved ER membrane protein complex (EMC) facilitates the biogenesis of a wide range of membrane proteins. In this study, we investigated the EMC function using Drosophila photoreceptor as a model system. We found that the EMC was necessary only for the biogenesis of a subset of multipass membrane proteins such as rhodopsin (Rh1), TRP, TRPL, Csat, Cni, SERCA, and Na⁺K⁺ATPase α, but not for that of secretory or single-pass membrane proteins. Additionally, in EMC-deficient cells, Rh1 was translated to its C terminus but degraded independently from ER-associated degradation. Thus, EMC exerted its effect after translation but before or during the membrane integration of transmembrane domains (TMDs). Finally, we found that EMC was not required for the stable expression of the first three TMDs of Rh1 but was required for that of the fourth and fifth TMDs. Our results suggested that EMC is required for the ER membrane insertion of succeeding TMDs of multipass membrane proteins.

The ER membrane protein complex is required to ensure correct topology and stable expression of flavivirus polyproteins

Flaviviruses translate their genomes as multi-pass transmembrane proteins at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane. Here, we show that the ER membrane protein complex (EMC) is indispensable for the expression of viral polyproteins. We demonstrated that EMC was essential for accurate folding and post-translational stability rather than translation efficiency. Specifically, we revealed degradation of NS4A-NS4B, a region rich in transmembrane domains, in absence of EMC. Orthogonally, by serial passaging of virus on EMC-deficient cells, we identified two non-synonymous point mutations in NS4A and NS4B, which rescued viral replication. Finally, we showed a physical interaction between EMC and viral NS4B and that the NS4A-4B region adopts an aberrant topology in the absence of the EMC leading to degradation. Together, our data highlight how flaviviruses hijack the EMC for transmembrane protein biogenesis to achieve optimal expression of their polyproteins, which reinforces a role for the EMC in stabilizing challenging transmembrane proteins during synthesis.

Role of Endoplasmic Reticulum-Associated Proteins in Flavivirus Replication and Assembly Complexes

Flavivirus replication in host cells requires the formation of replication and assembly complexes on the cytoplasmic side of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane. These complexes consist of an ER membrane, viral proteins, and host proteins. Genome-wide investigations have identified a number of ER multiprotein complexes as vital factors for flavivirus replication. The detailed mechanisms of the role of ER complexes in flavivirus replication are still largely elusive. This review highlights the fact that the ER multiprotein complexes are crucial for the formation of flavivirus replication and assembly complexes, and the ER complexes could be considered as a target for developing successful broad-spectrum anti-flavivirus drugs.

Biallelic Variants in ASNA1, Encoding a Cytosolic Targeting Factor of Tail-Anchored Proteins, Cause Rapidly Progressive Pediatric Cardiomyopathy

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Pediatric cardiomyopathies are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of heart muscle disorders associated with high morbidity and mortality. Although knowledge of the genetic basis of pediatric cardiomyopathy has improved considerably, the underlying cause remains elusive in a substantial proportion of cases.

Transmembrane insertases and N-glycosylation critically determine synthesis, trafficking, and activity of the nonselective cation channel TRPC6

Transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily C member 6 (TRPC6) is a widely expressed ion channel. Gain-of-function mutations in the human TRPC6 channel cause autosomal-dominant focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, but the molecular components involved in disease development remain unclear. Here, we found that overexpression of gain-of-function TRPC6 channel variants is cytotoxic in cultured cells. Exploiting this phenotype in a genome-wide CRISPR/Cas screen for genes whose inactivation rescues cells from TRPC6-associated cytotoxicity, we identified several proteins essential for TRPC6 protein expression, including the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane protein complex transmembrane insertase. We also identified transmembrane protein 208 (TMEM208), a putative component of a signal recognition particle-independent (SND) ER protein-targeting pathway, as being necessary for expression of TRPC6 and several other ion channels and transporters. TRPC6 expression was also diminished by loss of the previously uncharacterized WD repeat domain 83 opposite strand (WDR83OS), which interacted with both TRPC6 and TMEM208. Additionally enriched among the screen hits were genes involved in N-linked protein glycosylation. Deletion of the mannosyl (α-1,3-)-glycoprotein β-1,2-N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase (MGAT1), necessary for the generation of complex N-linked glycans, abrogated TRPC6 gain-of-function variant-mediated Ca2+ influx and extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation in HEK cells, but failed to diminish cytotoxicity in cultured podocytes. However, mutating the two TRPC6 N-glycosylation sites abrogated the cytotoxicity of mutant TRPC6 and reduced its surface expression. These results expand the targets of TMEM208-mediated ER translocation to include multipass transmembrane proteins and suggest that TRPC6 N-glycosylation plays multiple roles in modulating channel trafficking and activity.

The WRB Subunit of the Get3 Receptor is Required for the Correct Integration of its Partner CAML into the ER

Calcium-modulating cyclophilin ligand (CAML), together with Tryptophan rich basic protein (WRB, Get1 in yeast), constitutes the mammalian receptor for the Transmembrane Recognition Complex subunit of 40 kDa (TRC40, Get3 in yeast), a cytosolic ATPase with a central role in the post-translational targeting pathway of tail-anchored (TA) proteins to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane. CAML has also been implicated in other cell-specific processes, notably in immune cell survival, and has been found in molar excess over WRB in different cell types. Notwithstanding the stoichiometric imbalance, WRB and CAML depend strictly on each other for expression. Here, we investigated the mechanism by which WRB impacts CAML levels. We demonstrate that CAML, generated in the presence of sufficient WRB levels, is inserted into the ER membrane with three transmembrane segments (TMs) in its C-terminal region. By contrast, without sufficient levels of WRB, CAML fails to adopt this topology, and is instead incompletely integrated to generate two aberrant topoforms; these congregate in ER-associated clusters and are degraded by the proteasome. Our results suggest that WRB, a member of the recently proposed Oxa1 superfamily, acts catalytically to assist the topogenesis of CAML and may have wider functions in membrane biogenesis than previously appreciated.

iPla2β Deficiency Suppresses Hepatic ER UPR, Fxr, and Phospholipids in Mice Fed with MCD Diet, Resulting in Exacerbated Hepatic Bile Acids and Biliary Cell Proliferation

Background: Group VIA calcium-independent phospholipase A2 (iPla2β) regulates homeostasis and remodeling of phospholipids (PL). We previously showed that iPla2β^-/- mice fed with a methionine-choline-deficient diet (MCD) exhibited exaggerated liver fibrosis. As iPla2β is located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), we investigated the mechanisms for this by focusing on hepatic ER unfolded protein response (UPR), ER PL, and enterohepatic bile acids (BA). Methods: Female WT (wild-type) and iPla2β^-/- mice were fed with chow or MCD for 5 weeks. PL and BA profiles were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Gene expression analyses were performed. Results: MCD feeding of WT mice caused a decrease of ER PL subclasses, which were further decreased by iPla2β deficiency. This deficiency alone or combined with MCD downregulated the expression of liver ER UPR proteins and farnesoid X-activated receptor. The downregulation under MCD was concomitant with an elevation of BA in the liver and peripheral blood and an increase of biliary epithelial cell proliferation measured by cytokeratin 19. Conclusion: iPla2β deficiency combined with MCD severely disturbed ER PL composition and caused inactivation of UPR, leading to downregulated Fxr, exacerbated BA, and ductular proliferation. Our study provides insights into iPla2β inactivation for injury susceptibility under normal conditions and liver fibrosis and cholangiopathies during MCD feeding.

Dual roles for the ER membrane protein complex in flavivirus infection: viral entry and protein biogenesis

Hundreds of cellular host factors are required to support dengue virus infection, but their identity and roles are incompletely characterized. Here, we identify human host dependency factors required for efficient dengue virus-2 (DENV2) infection of human cells. We focused on two, TTC35 and TMEM111, which we previously demonstrated to be required for yellow fever virus (YFV) infection and others subsequently showed were also required by other flaviviruses. These proteins are components of the human endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex (EMC), which has roles in ER-associated protein biogenesis and lipid metabolism. We report that DENV, YFV and Zika virus (ZIKV) infections were strikingly inhibited, while West Nile virus infection was unchanged, in cells that lack EMC subunit 4. Furthermore, targeted depletion of EMC subunits in live mosquitoes significantly reduced DENV2 propagation in vivo. Using a novel uncoating assay, which measures interactions between host RNA-binding proteins and incoming viral RNA, we show that EMC is required at or prior to virus uncoating. Importantly, we uncovered a second and important role for the EMC. The complex is required for viral protein accumulation in a cell line harboring a ZIKV replicon, indicating that EMC participates in the complex process of viral protein biogenesis.

Versatility of Preprotein Transfer from the Cytosol to Mitochondria

Mitochondrial biogenesis requires the import of a large number of precursor proteins from the cytosol. Although specific membrane-bound preprotein translocases have been characterized in detail, it was assumed that protein transfer from the cytosol to mitochondria mainly involved unselective binding to molecular chaperones. Recent findings suggest an unexpected versatility of protein transfer to mitochondria. Cytosolic factors have been identified that bind to selected subsets of preproteins and guide them to mitochondrial receptors in a post-translational manner. Cotranslational import processes are emerging. Mechanisms for crosstalk between protein targeting to mitochondria and other cell organelles, in particular the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and peroxisomes, have been uncovered. We discuss how a network of cytosolic machineries and targeting pathways promote and regulate preprotein transfer into mitochondria.

ER complex proteins are required for rhodopsin biosynthesis and photoreceptor survival in Drosophila and mice

Defective rhodopsin homeostasis is one of the major causes of retinal degeneration, including the disease Retinitis pigmentosa. To identify cellular factors required for the biosynthesis of rhodopsin, we performed a genome-wide genetic screen in Drosophila for mutants with reduced levels of rhodopsin. We isolated loss-of-function alleles in endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex 3 (emc3), emc5, and emc6, each of which exhibited defective phototransduction and photoreceptor cell degeneration. EMC3, EMC5, and EMC6 were essential for rhodopsin synthesis independent of the ER associated degradation (ERAD) pathway, which eliminates misfolded proteins. We generated null mutations for all EMC subunits, and further demonstrated that different EMC subunits play roles in different cellular functions. Conditional knockout of the Emc3 gene in mice led to mislocalization of rhodopsin protein and death of cone and rod photoreceptor cells. These data indicate conserved roles for EMC subunits in maintaining rhodopsin homeostasis and photoreceptor function, and suggest that retinal degeneration may also be caused by defects in early biosynthesis of rhodopsin.

A trap mutant reveals the physiological client spectrum of TRC40

The transmembrane recognition complex (TRC) pathway targets tail-anchored (TA) proteins to the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). While many TA proteins are known to be able to use this pathway, it is essential for the targeting of only a few. Here, we uncover a large number of TA proteins that engage with TRC40 when other targeting machineries are fully operational. We use a dominant-negative ATPase-impaired mutant of TRC40 in which aspartate 74 was replaced by a glutamate residue to trap TA proteins in the cytoplasm. Manipulation of the hydrophobic TA-binding groove in TRC40 (also known as ASNA1) reduces interaction with most, but not all, substrates suggesting that co-purification may also reflect interactions unrelated to precursor protein targeting. We confirm known TRC40 substrates and identify many additional TA proteins interacting with TRC40. By using the trap approach in combination with quantitative mass spectrometry, we show that Golgi-resident TA proteins such as the golgins golgin-84, CASP and giantin as well as the vesicle-associated membrane-protein-associated proteins VAPA and VAPB interact with TRC40. Thus, our results provide new avenues to assess the essential role of TRC40 in metazoan organisms.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Summary: A strategy to decipher which tail-anchored proteins do (as opposed to can or must) use the TRC pathway in intact cells generates a comprehensive list of human TRC40 clients.

Membrane phospholipid alteration causes chronic ER stress through early degradation of homeostatic ER-resident proteins

Phospholipid homeostasis in biological membranes is essential to maintain functions of organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum. Phospholipid perturbation has been associated to cellular stress responses. However, in most cases, the implication of membrane lipid changes to homeostatic cellular response has not been clearly defined. Previously, we reported that Saccharomyces cerevisiae adapts to lipid bilayer stress by upregulating several protein quality control pathways such as the endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation (ERAD) pathway and the unfolded protein response (UPR). Surprisingly, we observed certain ER-resident transmembrane proteins, which form part of the UPR programme, to be destabilised under lipid bilayer stress. Among these, the protein translocon subunit Sbh1 was prematurely degraded by membrane stiffening at the ER. Moreover, our findings suggest that the Doa10 complex recognises free Sbh1 that becomes increasingly accessible during lipid bilayer stress, perhaps due to the change in ER membrane properties. Premature removal of key ER-resident transmembrane proteins might be an underlying cause of chronic ER stress as a result of lipid bilayer stress.

Cooperation of mitochondrial and ER factors in quality control of tail-anchored proteins

Tail-anchored (TA) proteins insert post-translationally into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM) and peroxisomes. Whereas the GET pathway controls ER-targeting, no dedicated factors are known for OMM insertion, posing the question of how accuracy is achieved. The mitochondrial AAA-ATPase Msp1 removes mislocalized TA proteins from the OMM, but it is unclear, how Msp1 clients are targeted for degradation. Here we screened for factors involved in degradation of TA proteins mislocalized to mitochondria. We show that the ER-associated degradation (ERAD) E3 ubiquitin ligase Doa10 controls cytoplasmic level of Msp1 clients. Furthermore, we identified the uncharacterized OMM protein Fmp32 and the ectopically expressed subunit of the ER-mitochondria encounter structure (ERMES) complex Gem1 as native clients for Msp1 and Doa10. We propose that productive localization of TA proteins to the OMM is ensured by complex assembly, while orphan subunits are extracted by Msp1 and eventually degraded by Doa10.

Folding and Misfolding of Human Membrane Proteins in Health and Disease: From Single Molecules to Cellular Proteostasis

Advances over the past 25 years have revealed much about how the structural properties of membranes and associated proteins are linked to the thermodynamics and kinetics of membrane protein (MP) folding. At the same time biochemical progress has outlined how cellular proteostasis networks mediate MP folding and manage misfolding in the cell. When combined with results from genomic sequencing, these studies have established paradigms for how MP folding and misfolding are linked to the molecular etiologies of a variety of diseases. This emerging framework has paved the way for the development of a new class of small molecule "pharmacological chaperones" that bind to and stabilize misfolded MP variants, some of which are now in clinical use. In this review, we comprehensively outline current perspectives on the folding and misfolding of integral MPs as well as the mechanisms of cellular MP quality control. Based on these perspectives, we highlight new opportunities for innovations that bridge our molecular understanding of the energetics of MP folding with the nuanced complexity of biological systems. Given the many linkages between MP misfolding and human disease, we also examine some of the exciting opportunities to leverage these advances to address emerging challenges in the development of therapeutics and precision medicine.

Ad5-EMC6 mediates antitumor activity in gastric cancer cells through the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway

Endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein complex subunit 6 (EMC6), also known as transmembrane protein 93 (transmembrane protein 93, TMEM93), is an autophagy-related protein. EMC6 overexpression inhibits cancer cell growth and induces apoptosis, but the interaction partners of EMC6 and its cellular responsibilities remain incompletely understood. In this study, we report that adenovirus-mediated ectopic overexpression of EMC6 (Ad5-EMC6) in BGC823 and SGC7901 gastric cancer cells decreases the activity of ERK1/2, down-regulates the levels of BCL-2 protein and phosphorylated BCL-2, increases the expression of tBID and BAX, and decreases mitochondrial membrane potential and subsequently leading to cell apoptosis. In a xenograft tumor model, we found that Ad5-EMC6 impairs the tumorigenesis of SGC7901 gastric cancer cells in nude mice. Additionally, Ad5-EMC6 enhances the sensitivity of gastric cancer cells to the chemotherapeutic drug etoposide. Collectively, these results demonstrate that EMC6-induced apoptosis of gastric cancer cells occurs at least partially through the mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis pathway. Our study suggests a rational basis for the potential clinical application of Ad5-EMC6 in gastric cancer.

The Expanding and Unexpected Functions of Mitochondria Contact Sites

Mitochondria make functionally relevant contacts with most, if not all, other organelles in the cell. These contacts impact on mitochondrial behavior and function as well as on a wide variety of cellular functions. Many recent advances have been made in the rapidly growing field of mitochondria contact site biology, and these advances have expanded the known functions of mitochondria contact sites in exciting and unexpected ways.

An alternative membrane topology permits lipid droplet localization of peroxisomal fatty acyl-CoA reductase 1

Fatty acyl-CoA reductase 1 (Far1) is a ubiquitously expressed peroxisomal membrane protein that generates the fatty alcohols required for the biosynthesis of ether lipids. Lipid droplet localization of exogenously expressed and endogenous human Far1 was observed by fluorescence microscopy under conditions of increased triglyceride synthesis in tissue culture cells. This unexpected finding was supported further by correlative light electron microscopy and subcellular fractionation. Selective permeabilization, protease sensitivity and N-glycosylation tagging suggested that Far1 is able to assume two different membrane topologies, differing in the orientation of the short hydrophilic C-terminus towards the lumen or the cytosol, respectively. Two closely spaced hydrophobic domains are contained within the C-terminal region. When analyzed separately, the second domain was sufficient for the localization of a fluorescent reporter to lipid droplets. Targeting of Far1 to lipid droplets was not impaired in either Pex19 or ASNA1 (also known as TRC40) CRISPR/Cas9 knockout cells. In conclusion, our data suggest that Far1 is a novel member of the rather exclusive group of dual topology membrane proteins. At the same time, Far1 shows lipid metabolism-dependent differential subcellular localizations to peroxisomes and lipid droplets.

Mitochondrial AAA-ATPase Msp1 detects mislocalized tail-anchored proteins through a dual-recognition mechanism

The conserved AAA-ATPase Msp1 is embedded in the outer mitochondrial membrane and removes mislocalized tail-anchored (TA) proteins upon dysfunction of the guided entry of tail-anchored (GET) pathway. It remains unclear how Msp1 recognizes its substrates. Here, we extensively characterize Msp1 and its substrates, including the mitochondrially targeted Pex15Δ30, and full-length Pex15, which mislocalizes to mitochondria upon dysfunction of Pex19 but not the GET pathway. Moreover, we identify two new substrates, Frt1 and Ysy6. Our results suggest that mislocalized TA proteins expose hydrophobic surfaces in the cytoplasm and are recognized by Msp1 through conserved hydrophobic residues. Introducing a hydrophobic patch into mitochondrial TA proteins transforms them into Msp1 substrates. In addition, Pex15Δ30 and Frt1 contain basic inter-membrane space (IMS) residues critical for their mitochondrial mistargeting. Remarkably, Msp1 recognizes this feature through the acidic D12 residue in its IMS domain. This dual-recognition mechanism involving interactions at the cytoplasmic and IMS domains of Msp1 and substrates greatly facilitates substrate recognition and is required by Msp1 to safeguard mitochondrial functions.

The Role of EMC during Membrane Protein Biogenesis

Ten years ago, high-throughput genetic interaction analyses revealed an abundant and widely conserved protein complex residing in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane. Dubbed the ER membrane protein complex (EMC), its disruption has since been found to affect wide-ranging processes, including protein trafficking, organelle communication, ER stress, viral maturation, lipid homeostasis, and others. However, its molecular function has remained enigmatic. Recent studies suggest a role for EMC during membrane protein biogenesis. Biochemical reconstitution experiments show that EMC can directly mediate the insertion of transmembrane domains (TMDs) into the lipid bilayer. Given the large proportion of genes encoding membrane proteins, a central role for EMC as a TMD insertion factor can explain its high abundance, wide conservation, and pleiotropic phenotypes.

A network of chaperones prevents and detects failures in membrane protein lipid bilayer integration

A fundamental step in membrane protein biogenesis is their integration into the lipid bilayer with a defined orientation of each transmembrane segment. Despite this, it remains unclear how cells detect and handle failures in this process. Here we show that single point mutations in the membrane protein connexin 32 (Cx32), which cause Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, can cause failures in membrane integration. This leads to Cx32 transport defects and rapid degradation. Our data show that multiple chaperones detect and remedy this aberrant behavior: the ER-membrane complex (EMC) aids in membrane integration of low-hydrophobicity transmembrane segments. If they fail to integrate, these are recognized by the ER-lumenal chaperone BiP. Ultimately, the E3 ligase gp78 ubiquitinates Cx32 proteins, targeting them for degradation. Thus, cells use a coordinated system of chaperones for the complex task of membrane protein biogenesis, which can be compromised by single point mutations, causing human disease.

The ER membrane protein complex promotes biogenesis of sterol-related enzymes maintaining cholesterol homeostasis

The eukaryotic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane contains essential complexes that oversee protein biogenesis and lipid metabolism, impacting nearly all aspects of cell physiology. The ER membrane protein complex (EMC) is a newly described transmembrane domain (TMD) insertase linked with various phenotypes, but whose clients and cellular responsibilities remain incompletely understood. We report that EMC deficiency limits the cellular boundaries defining cholesterol tolerance, reflected by diminished viability with limiting or excessive extracellular cholesterol. Lipidomic and proteomic analyses revealed defective biogenesis and concomitant loss of the TMD-containing ER-resident enzymes sterol-O-acyltransferase 1 (SOAT1) and squalene synthase (SQS, also known as FDFT1), which serve strategic roles in the adaptation of cells to changes in cholesterol availability. Insertion of the weakly hydrophobic tail-anchor (TA) of SQS into the ER membrane by the EMC ensures sufficient flux through the sterol biosynthetic pathway while biogenesis of polytopic SOAT1 promoted by the EMC provides cells with the ability to store free cholesterol as inert cholesteryl esters. By facilitating insertion of TMDs that permit essential mammalian sterol-regulating enzymes to mature accurately, the EMC is an important biogenic determinant of cellular robustness to fluctuations in cholesterol availability.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

Highlighted Article: The ER membrane protein complex promotes biogenesis of key membrane-bound enzymes responsible for regulation of cholesterol biosynthesis and storage, an important determinant of mammalian cell viability.