Annexin II in exocytosis: catecholamine secretion requires the translocation of p36 to the subplasmalemmal region in chromaffin cells

Recent Advances in Molecular and Cellular Functions of S100A10

S100A10 (p11, annexin II light chain, calpactin light chain) is a multifunctional protein with a wide range of physiological activity. S100A10 is unique among the S100 family members of proteins since it does not bind to Ca2+, despite its sequence and structural similarity. This review focuses on studies highlighting the structure, regulation, and binding partners of S100A10. The binding partners of S100A10 were collated and summarized.

Ca2+ and Annexins - Emerging Players for Sensing and Transferring Cholesterol and Phosphoinositides via Membrane Contact Sites

Maintaining lipid composition diversity in membranes from different organelles is critical for numerous cellular processes. However, many lipids are synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and require delivery to other organelles. In this scenario, formation of membrane contact sites (MCS) between neighbouring organelles has emerged as a novel non-vesicular lipid transport mechanism. Dissecting the molecular composition of MCS identified phosphoinositides (PIs), cholesterol, scaffolding/tethering proteins as well as Ca²⁺ and Ca²⁺-binding proteins contributing to MCS functioning. Compelling evidence now exists for the shuttling of PIs and cholesterol across MCS, affecting their concentrations in distinct membrane domains and diverse roles in membrane trafficking. Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) at the plasma membrane (PM) not only controls endo-/exocytic membrane dynamics but is also critical in autophagy. Cholesterol is highly concentrated at the PM and enriched in recycling endosomes and Golgi membranes. MCS-mediated cholesterol transfer is intensely researched, identifying MCS dysfunction or altered MCS partnerships to correlate with de-regulated cellular cholesterol homeostasis and pathologies. Annexins, a conserved family of Ca²⁺-dependent phospholipid binding proteins, contribute to tethering and untethering events at MCS. In this chapter, we will discuss how Ca²⁺ homeostasis and annexins in the endocytic compartment affect the sensing and transfer of cholesterol and PIs across MCS.

High-fat diet promotes colorectal carcinogenesis through SERCA2 mediated serine phosphorylation of Annexin A2

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly common malignancy, being the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Recent epidemiological studies have indicated that carcinogenic effect of diet was mainly attributed to high-fat diets. To investigate the mechanism of high-fat diet-induced colorectal cancer, we systematically quantified the phosphoproteome in human HT-29 cells treated with sodium palmitate (PA). p-Annexin A2 (S26) was predicted to be specifically up-regulated by PA. We confirmed that PA-induced Annexin A2 phosphorylation at Ser26 in C57BL/6 J-Apc^Min/J mice fed with high-fat diet. Phosphorylation of Annexin A2 at Ser26 promotes PA-induced proliferation of HT-29 cells. Moreover, PA suppressed SERCA activity and SERCA2 expression was compensatorily increased. Mechanistically, SERCA2 can partially reverse Annexin A2 phosphorylation at Ser26 caused by PA through intracellular calcium release. Finally, SERCA2 knockdown inhibited high-fat diet-induced tumor growth and Annexin A2 phosphorylation at Ser26 in SCID mice. In all, our studies demonstrate that high-fat diet promotes colorectal carcinogenesis through SERCA2 mediated serine phosphorylation of Annexin A2.

Encephalomyocarditis Virus 2A Protein Inhibited Apoptosis by Interaction with Annexin A2 through JNK/c-Jun Pathway

Encephalomyocarditis virus can cause myocarditis and encephalitis in pigs and other mammals, thus posing a potential threat to public health safety. The 2A protein is an important virulence factor of EMCV. Previous studies have shown that the 2A protein may be related to the inhibition of apoptosis by virus, but its specific molecular mechanism is not clear. In this study, the 2A protein was expressed in Escherichia coli in order to find interacting cell proteins. A pull down assay, coupled with mass spectrometry, revealed that the 2A protein possibly interacted with annexin A2. Co-immunoprecipitation assays and confocal imaging analysis further demonstrated that the 2A protein interacted with annexin A2 in cells. In reducing the expression of annexin A2 by siRNA, the ability of the 2A protein to inhibit apoptosis was weakened and the proliferation of EMCV was slowed down. These results suggest that annexin A2 is closely related to the inhibition of apoptosis by 2A. Furthermore, both RT-PCR and western blot results showed that the 2A protein requires annexin A2 interaction to inhibit apoptosis via JNK/c-Jun pathway. Taken together, our data indicate that the 2A protein inhibits apoptosis by interacting with annexin A2 via the JNK/c-Jun pathway. These findings provide insight into the molecular pathogenesis underlying EMCV infection.

Phospholipase D1-generated phosphatidic acid modulates secretory granule trafficking from biogenesis to compensatory endocytosis in neuroendocrine cells

Calcium-regulated exocytosis is a multi-step process that allows specialized secretory cells to release informative molecules such as neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and hormones for intercellular communication. The biogenesis of secretory vesicles from the Golgi cisternae is followed by their transport towards the cell periphery and their docking and fusion to the exocytic sites of the plasma membrane allowing release of vesicular content. Subsequent compensatory endocytosis of the protein and lipidic constituents of the vesicles maintains cell homeostasis. Despite the fact that lipids represent the majority of membrane constituents, little is known about their contribution to these processes. Using a combination of electrochemical measurement of single chromaffin cell catecholamine secretion and electron microscopy of roof-top membrane sheets associated with genetic, silencing and pharmacological approaches, we recently reported that diverse phosphatidic acid (PA) species regulates catecholamine release efficiency by controlling granule docking and fusion kinetics. The enzyme phospholipase D1 (PLD1), producing PA from phosphatidylcholine, seems to be the major responsible of these effects in this model. Here, we extended this work using spinning disk confocal microscopy showing that inhibition of PLD activity also reduced the velocity of granules undergoing a directed motion. Furthermore, a dopamine β-hydroxylase (DβH) internalization assay revealed that PA produced by PLD is required for an optimal recovery of vesicular membrane content by compensatory endocytosis. Thus, among numerous roles that have been attributed to PA our work gives core to the key regulatory role in secretion that has been proposed in different cell models. Few leads to explain these multiple functions of PA along the secretory pathway are discussed.

Annexin A2 Egress during Calcium-Regulated Exocytosis in Neuroendocrine Cells

Annexin A2 (AnxA2) is a calcium- and lipid-binding protein involved in neuroendocrine secretion where it participates in the formation and/or stabilization of lipid micro-domains required for structural and spatial organization of the exocytotic machinery. We have recently described that phosphorylation of AnxA2 on Tyr²³ is critical for exocytosis. Considering that Tyr²³ phosphorylation is known to promote AnxA2 externalization to the outer face of the plasma membrane in different cell types, we examined whether this phenomenon occurred in neurosecretory chromaffin cells. Using immunolabeling and biochemical approaches, we observed that nicotine stimulation triggered the egress of AnxA2 to the external leaflets of the plasma membrane in the vicinity of exocytotic sites. AnxA2 was found co-localized with tissue plasminogen activator, previously described on the surface of chromaffin cells following secretory granule release. We propose that AnxA2 might be a cell surface tissue plasminogen activator receptor for chromaffin cells, thus playing a role in autocrine or paracrine regulation of exocytosis.

Regulation of von-Willebrand Factor Secretion from Endothelial Cells by the Annexin A2-S100A10 Complex

Endothelial cells serve as gatekeepers of vascular hemostasis and local inflammatory reactions. They can rapidly respond to changes in the environment, caused, for example, by blood vessel injury, tissue damage or infection, by secreting in a strictly regulated manner factors regulating these processes. These factors include adhesion receptors for circulating leukocytes and platelets, P-selectin and von-Willebrand factor (VWF) that are stored in specialized secretory granules of endothelial cells, the Weibel-Palade bodies (WPB). Acute exposure of these adhesion molecules converts the endothelial cell surface from an anti-adhesive state enabling unrestricted flow of circulating blood cells to an adhesive one capable of capturing leukocytes (through P-selectin) and platelets (through VWF). While these are important (patho)physiological responses, compromised or dysregulated WPB secretion can cause pathologies such as excessive bleeding or vascular occlusion. Several factors are involved in regulating the exocytosis of WPB and thus represent potential targets for therapeutic interventions in these pathologies. Among them, the annexin A2 (AnxA2)-S100A10 complex has been shown to participate in the tethering/docking of secretion-competent WPB at the plasma membrane, and interference with AnxA2/S100A10 expression or complex formation significantly reduces acute WPB exocytosis and VWF release. Thus, developing specific means to efficiently block AnxA2-S100A10 complex formation in endothelial cells could lead to novel avenues towards interfering with acute vascular thrombosis.

Protein phosphorylation and its role in the regulation of Annexin A2 function

BACKGROUND

Annexin A2 (AnxA2) is a multifunctional protein involved in endocytosis, exocytosis, membrane domain organisation, actin remodelling, signal transduction, protein assembly, transcription and mRNA transport, as well as DNA replication and repair.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

The current knowledge of the role of phosphorylation in the functional regulation of AnxA2 is reviewed. To provide a more comprehensive treatment of this topic, we also address in depth the phosphorylation process in general and discuss its possible conformational effects. Furthermore, we discuss the apparent limitations of the methods used to investigate phosphoproteins, as exemplified by the study of AnxA2.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

AnxA2 is subjected to complex regulation by post-translational modifications affecting its cellular functions, with Ser11, Ser25 and Tyr23 representing important phosphorylation sites. Thus, Ser phosphorylation of AnxA2 is involved in the recruitment and docking of secretory granules, the regulation of its association with S100A10, and sequestration of perinuclear, translationally inactive mRNP complexes. By contrast, Tyr phosphorylation of AnxA2 regulates its role in actin dynamics and increases its association with endosomal compartments. Modification of its three main phosphorylation sites is not sufficient to discriminate between its numerous functions. Thus, fine-tuning of AnxA2 function is mediated by the joint action of several post-translational modifications.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

AnxA2 participates in malignant cell transformation, and its overexpression and/or phosphorylation is associated with cancer progression and metastasis. Thus, tight regulation of AnxA2 function is an integral aspect of cellular homeostasis. The presence of AnxA2 in cancer cell-derived exosomes, as well as the potential regulation of exosomal AnxA2 by phosphorylation or other PTMs, are topics of great interest.

Regulation of the Equilibrium between Closed and Open Conformations of Annexin A2 by N-Terminal Phosphorylation and S100A4-Binding

Annexin A2 (ANXA2) has a versatile role in membrane-associated functions including membrane aggregation, endo- and exocytosis, and it is regulated by post-translational modifications and protein-protein interactions through the unstructured N-terminal domain (NTD). Our sequence analysis revealed a short motif responsible for clamping the NTD to the C-terminal core domain (CTD). Structural studies indicated that the flexibility of the NTD and CTD are interrelated and oppositely regulated by Tyr24 phosphorylation and Ser26Glu phosphomimicking mutation. The crystal structure of the ANXA2-S100A4 complex showed that asymmetric binding of S100A4 induces dislocation of the NTD from the CTD and, similar to the Ser26Glu mutation, unmasks the concave side of ANXA2. In contrast, pTyr24 anchors the NTD to the CTD and hampers the membrane-bridging function. This inhibition can be restored by S100A4 and S100A10 binding. Based on our results we provide a structural model for regulation of ANXA2-mediated membrane aggregation by NTD phosphorylation and S100 binding.

Annexins A2 and A8 in endothelial cell exocytosis and the control of vascular homeostasis

Blood vessel homeostasis is controlled by a variety of regulatory circuits that involve both the vessel-lining endothelial cells as well as the circulating blood cells and products thereof. One important feature is the control exerted by endothelial cells through regulated exocytosis of factors affecting blood coagulation and local inflammatory processes. These factors include two important adhesion proteins: the leukocyte receptor P-selectin and the pro-coagulant von Willebrand factor (VWF) that binds platelets and is involved in the formation of a platelet plug at sites of blood vessel injury. Failure to correctly produce and secrete P-selectin and VWF leads to pathologies such as von Willebrand disease, the most common inherited bleeding disorder. P-selectin and VWF are stored in unique secretory granules, the Weibel-Palade bodies (WPB), that undergo a complex maturation process and are acutely secreted following endothelial stimulation, e.g. in the course of inflammation or following blood vessel injury. Two annexins have been shown to be involved in different aspects of WPB biology: annexin A8 is required for proper WPB maturation and annexin A2 participates in late steps of WPB exocytosis. Thus, by affecting the stimulated release of P-selectin and VWF from endothelial cells, annexins fulfil important functions in the control of vascular homeostasis and could be considered as targets for influencing P-selectin- and VWF-dependent processes/pathologies.

Post-translational modifications of Annexin A2 are linked to its association with perinuclear nonpolysomal mRNP complexes

Various post‐translational modifications (PTMs) regulate the localisation and function of the multifunctional protein Annexin A2 (AnxA2). In addition to its various tasks as a cytoskeletal‐ and membrane‐associated protein, AnxA2 can function as a trans‐acting protein binding to cis‐acting sequences of specific mRNAs. In the present study, we have examined the role of Ser25 phosphorylation in subcellular localisation of AnxA2 and its interaction with mRNP complexes. Subcellular fractionation and confocal microscopy of rat neuroendocrine PC12 cells showed that Ser25‐phosphorylated AnxA2 (pSer25AnxA2) is absent from the nucleus and mainly localised to the perinuclear region, evidently associating with both membranes and cytoskeletal elements. Perinuclear targeting of AnxA2 was abolished by inhibition of protein kinase C activity, which resulted in cortical enrichment of the protein. Although oligo(dT)‐affinity purification of mRNAs revealed that pSer25AnxA2 associates with nonpolysomal, translationally inactive mRNP complexes, it displayed only partial overlap with a marker of P‐bodies. The phosphorylated protein is present as high‐molecular‐mass forms, indicating that it contains additional covalent PTMs, apparently triggered by its Ser25 phosphorylation. The subcellular distributions of these forms clearly differ from the main form of AnxA2 and are also distinct from that of Tyr23‐phosphorylated AnxA2. Immunoprecipitation verified that these high‐molecular‐mass forms are due to ubiquitination and/or sumoylation. Moreover, these results indicate that Ser25 phosphorylation and ubiquitin/SUMO1 conjugation of AnxA2 promote its association with nonpolysomal mRNAs, providing evidence of a possible mechanism to sequester a subpopulation of mRNAs in a translationally inactive and transport competent form at a distinct subcellular localisation.

Annexin A2-dependent actin bundling promotes secretory granule docking to the plasma membrane and exocytosis

Annexin A2, a calcium-, actin-, and lipid-binding protein involved in exocytosis, mediates the formation of lipid microdomains required for the structural and spatial organization of fusion sites at the plasma membrane. To understand how annexin A2 promotes this membrane remodeling, the involvement of cortical actin filaments in lipid domain organization was investigated. 3D electron tomography showed that cortical actin bundled by annexin A2 connected docked secretory granules to the plasma membrane and contributed to the formation of GM1-enriched lipid microdomains at the exocytotic sites in chromaffin cells. When an annexin A2 mutant with impaired actin filament-bundling activity was expressed, the formation of plasma membrane lipid microdomains and the number of exocytotic events were decreased and the fusion kinetics were slower, whereas the pharmacological activation of the intrinsic actin-bundling activity of endogenous annexin A2 had the opposite effects. Thus, annexin A2-induced actin bundling is apparently essential for generating active exocytotic sites.

Upregulation of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor alph4+beta2 through a Ligand-Independent PI3Kbeta Mechanism That Is Enhanced by TNFalpha and the Jak2/p38Mapk Pathways

High affinity nicotine-binding sites in the mammalian brain are neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) assembled from at least alpha4 and beta2 subunits into pentameric ion channels. When exposed to ligands such as nicotine, these receptors respond by undergoing upregulation, a correlate of nicotine addiction. Upregulation can be measured using HEK293 (293) cells that stably express alpha4 and beta2 subunits using quantification of [³H]epibatidine ([³H]Eb) binding to measure mature receptors. Treatment of these cells with choline also produces upregulation through a hemicholinium3 (HC3)-sensitive (choline kinase) and an HC3-insensitive pathway which are both independent of the mechanism used by nicotine for upregulation. In both cases, upregulation is significantly enhanced by the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) which signals through its receptor Tnfr1 to activate p38Mapk. Here we report that the inhibition of class1 phosphoinositide 3-kinases isoform PI3Kbeta using the selective antagonist PI828 is alone sufficient to produce upregulation and enhance both nicotine and choline HC3-sensitive mediated upregulation. Further, these processes are impacted upon by an AG-490 sensitive Jak2-associated pathway. Both PI3Kbeta (negative) and Jak2 (positive) modulation of upregulation converge through p38Mapk and both overlap with TNFalpha enhancement of this process. Upregulation through the PI3Kbeta pathway did not require Akt. Collectively these findings support upregulation of endogenous alpha4beta2 as a balance among cellular signaling networks that are highly responsive to multiple environmental, inflammatory and metabolic agents. The findings also suggest how illness and metabolic stress could alter the expression of this important nicotinic receptor and novel avenues to intercede in modifying its expression.

Effect of serine phosphorylation and Ser25 phospho-mimicking mutations on nuclear localisation and ligand interactions of annexin A2

Annexin A2 (AnxA2) interacts with numerous ligands, including calcium, lipids, mRNAs and intracellular and extracellular proteins. Different post-translational modifications participate in the discrimination of the functions of AnxA2 by modulating its ligand interactions. Here, phospho-mimicking mutants (AnxA2-S25E and AnxA2-S25D) were employed to investigate the effects of Ser25 phosphorylation on the structure and function of AnxA2 by using AnxA2-S25A as a control. The overall α-helical structure of AnxA2 is not affected by the mutations, since the thermal stabilities and aggregation tendencies of the mutants differ only slightly from the wild-type (wt) protein. Unlike wt AnxA2, all mutants bind the anxA2 3' untranslated region and β-γ-G-actin with high affinity in a Ca(2+)-independent manner. AnxA2-S25E is not targeted to the nucleus in transfected PC12 cells. In vitro phosphorylation of AnxA2 by protein kinase C increases its affinity to mRNA and inhibits its nuclear localisation, in accordance with the data obtained with the phospho-mimicking mutants. Ca(2+)-dependent binding of wt AnxA2 to phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate, phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate and phosphatidylinositol-5-phosphate, as well as weaker but still Ca(2+)-dependent binding to phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylinositol-3,5-bisphosphate, was demonstrated by a protein-lipid overlay assay, whereas binding of AnxA2 to these lipids, as well as its binding to liposomes, is inhibited by the Ser25 mutations. Thus, introduction of a modification (mutation or phosphorylation) at Ser25 appears to induce a conformational change leading to increased accessibility of the mRNA- and G-actin-binding sites in domain IV independent of Ca(2+) levels, while the Ca(2+)-dependent binding of AnxA2 to phospholipids is attenuated.

Annexin II mediates the neutrophil elastase-stimulated exocytosis of mucin 5ac

The overexpression and hypersecretion of mucus is a hallmark of several chronic pulmonary inflammatory diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and cystic fibrosis. Mucin 5ac (MUC5AC) is a major component of airway mucus. Annexin II (ANXII) has been reported to be expressed in various cells and is associated with the fusion of secretory vesicles. Neutrophil elastase (NE) is present at high concentrations in the airway surface fluid in patients with cystic fibrosis and various other severe diseases. However, the role of ANXII in NE-induced secretion of MUC5AC granules remains unclear. It was determined that NE upregulates the transcription and protein synthesis of ANXII in 16HBE human bronchial epithelial cells. Following stimulation with NE, ANXII is recruited to the cell membrane, as visualised by cell immunochemistry and laser confocal microscopy, and the redistribution of ANXII is inhibited by the protein kinase-C (PKC) inhibitor bisindolylmaleimide I. Conversely, depleting endogenous ANXII decreases MUC5AC secretion into the cell culture supernatant and increases the levels of intracellular MUC5AC protein. The data indicated that ANXII is associated with the secretion of MUC5AC granules.

Lipids in Regulated Exocytosis: What are They Doing?

The regulated secretory pathway in neuroendocrine cells ends with the release of hormones and neurotransmitters following a rise in cytosolic calcium. This process known as regulated exocytosis involves the assembly of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins, the synaptic vesicle VAMP (synaptobrevin), and the plasma membrane proteins syntaxin and SNAP-25. Although there is much evidence suggesting that SNARE proteins play a key role in the fusion machinery, other cellular elements regulating the kinetics, the extent of fusion, and the preparation of vesicle for release have received less attention. Among those factors, lipids have also been proposed to play important functions both at the level of secretory vesicle recruitment and late membrane fusion steps. Here, we will review the latest evidence supporting the concept of the fusogenic activity of lipids, and also discuss how this may be achieved. These possibilities include the recruitment and sequestration of the components of the exocytotic machinery, regulation of protein function, and direct effects on membrane topology.

cAMP-induced secretion of endothelial von Willebrand factor is regulated by a phosphorylation/dephosphorylation switch in annexin A2

The large multimeric glyocoprotein von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a crucial component of both primary and secondary hemostasis. It is stored in secretory granules of vascular endothelial cells, the Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs), and is released following stimulation by agonists that raise intracellular Ca(2+) or cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. cAMP-induced exocytosis of WPBs requires protein kinase A activity, but downstream factors that are regulated by phosphorylation/dephosphorylation are not known. Here we identify the complex consisting of the lipid-binding protein annexin A2 (AnxA2) and S100A10 as such a factor. Knockdown and specific rescue approaches reveal that a functional AnxA2-S100A10 complex is required for the forskolin-induced, cAMP-dependent release of VWF. Forskolin triggers dephosphorylation of AnxA2 that is mediated by a calcineurin-like phosphatase and stabilizes the AnxA2-S100A10 complex, thereby promoting VWF release. Serine 11 of AnxA2 was identified as the target residue of this phosphorylation switch because a phosphomimicking mutation at this site prevents complex formation with S100A10 and, in contrast to wild-type or S11A-AnxA2, is unable to restore cAMP-dependent VWF secretion in AnxA2-depleted cells. Thus, complex formation of AnxA2 with S100A10 is a central regulatory mechanism in the acute release of VWF in response to cAMP-elevating agonists.

Annexin A2 heterotetramer: structure and function

Annexin A2 is a pleiotropic calcium- and anionic phospholipid-binding protein that exists as a monomer and as a heterotetrameric complex with the plasminogen receptor protein, S100A10. Annexin A2 has been proposed to play a key role in many processes including exocytosis, endocytosis, membrane organization, ion channel conductance, and also to link F-actin cytoskeleton to the plasma membrane. Despite an impressive list of potential binding partners and regulatory activities, it was somewhat unexpected that the annexin A2-null mouse should show a relatively benign phenotype. Studies with the annexin A2-null mouse have suggested important functions for annexin A2 and the heterotetramer in fibrinolysis, in the regulation of the LDL receptor and in cellular redox regulation. However, the demonstration that depletion of annexin A2 causes the depletion of several other proteins including S100A10, fascin and affects the expression of at least sixty-one genes has confounded the reports of its function. In this review we will discuss the annexin A2 structure and function and its proposed physiological and pathological roles.

Different molecular arrangements of the tetrameric annexin 2 modulate the size and dynamics of membrane aggregation

Annexin 2, a member of the annexin family of Ca2+-dependent membrane binding proteins is found in monomeric and heterotetrameric forms and has been involved in different membrane related functions. The heterotetrameric annexin 2 is composed of a dimer of S100A10, a member of the S100 family of Ca2+ binding proteins and two annexin 2 molecules ((Anx2-S100A10)2). Different molecular models including tetramers and octamers in which S100A10 is localized in the centre of the complex with the annexin 2 molecules positioned around S100A10 had been proposed. Herein, the organization of the (Anx2-S100A10)2 complex in conditions in which membranes are able to bridge was studied. We performed Cryo-electron microscopy observations of the tetrameric annexin 2 on the membrane surface, and study the S100A10 accessibility to antibodies by flow "cytometry". We also studied the kinetics and size evolution of vesicle aggregates by dynamic light scattering. The results show that the protein is able to organize in three different arrangements depending on the presence of Ca2+ and pH and that the aggregation is faster in the presence of Ca2+ compared with the aggregation in its absence. In one arrangement the S100A10 molecule is exposed to the solvent allowing its interaction with other proteins. The presented results will serve as a molecular basis to explain some of the functions of the tetrameric annexin 2.

S100A10-mediated translocation of annexin-A2 to SNARE proteins in adrenergic chromaffin cells undergoing exocytosis

In neuroendocrine cells, annexin-A2 is implicated as a promoter of monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (GM1)-containing lipid microdomains that are required for calcium-regulated exocytosis. As soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) require a specific lipid environment to mediate granule docking and fusion, we investigated whether annexin-A2-induced lipid microdomains might be linked to the SNAREs present at the plasma membrane. Stimulation of adrenergic chromaffin cells induces the translocation of cytosolic annexin-A2 to the plasma membrane, where it colocalizes with SNAP-25 and S100A10. Cross-linking experiments performed in stimulated chromaffin cells indicate that annexin-A2 directly interacts with S100A10 to form a tetramer at the plasma membrane. Here, we demonstrate that S100A10 can interact with vesicle-associated membrane protein 2 (VAMP2) and show that VAMP2 is present at the plasma membrane in resting adrenergic chromaffin cells. Tetanus toxin that cleaves VAMP2 solubilizes S100A10 from the plasma membrane and inhibits the translocation of annexin-A2 to the plasma membrane. Immunogold labelling of plasma membrane sheets combined with spatial point pattern analysis confirmed that S100A10 is present in VAMP2 microdomains at the plasma membrane and that annexin-A2 is observed close to S100A10 and to syntaxin in stimulated chromaffin cells. In addition, these results showed that the formation of phosphatidylinositol (4,5)-bisphosphate (PIP(2)) microdomains colocalized with S100A10 in the vicinity of docked granules, suggesting a functional interplay between annexin-A2-mediated lipid microdomains and SNAREs during exocytosis.

The annexins: spatial and temporal coordination of signaling events during cellular stress

Annexins are a family of structurally related, Ca2+-sensitive proteins that bind to negatively charged phospholipids and establish specific interactions with other lipids and lipid microdomains. They are present in all eukaryotic cells and share a common folding motif, the "annexin core", which incorporates Ca2+- and membrane-binding sites. Annexins participate in a variety of intracellular processes, ranging from the regulation of membrane dynamics to cell migration, proliferation, and apoptosis. Here we focus on the role of annexins in cellular signaling during stress. A chronic stress response triggers the activation of different intracellular pathways, resulting in profound changes in Ca2+ and pH homeostasis and the production of lipid second messengers. We review the latest data on how these changes are sensed by the annexins, which have the ability to simultaneously interact with specific lipid and protein moieties at the plasma membrane, contributing to stress adaptation via regulation of various signaling pathways.

S100-annexin complexes--biology of conditional association

S100 proteins and annexins both constitute groups of Ca2+-binding proteins, each of which comprises more than 10 members. S100 proteins are small, dimeric, EF-hand-type Ca2+-binding proteins that exert both intracellular and extracellular functions. Within the cells, S100 proteins regulate various reactions, including phosphorylation, in response to changes in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Although S100 proteins are known to be associated with many diseases, exact pathological contributions have not been proven in detail. Annexins are non-EF-hand-type Ca2+-binding proteins that exhibit Ca2+-dependent binding to phospholipids and membranes in various tissues. Annexins bring different membranes into proximity and assist them to fuse, and therefore are believed to play a role in membrane trafficking and organization. Several S100 proteins and annexins are known to interact with each other in either a Ca2+-dependent or Ca2+-independent manner, and form complexes that exhibit biological activities. This review focuses on the interaction between S100 proteins and annexins, and the possible biological roles of these complexes. Recent studies have shown that S100-annexin complexes have a role in the differentiation of gonad cells and neurological disorders, such as depression. These complexes regulate the organization of membranes and vesicles, and thereby may participate in the appropriate disposition of membrane-associated proteins, including ion channels and/or receptors.

The N-terminal domain of annexin 2 serves as a secondary binding site during membrane bridging

Annexin A2 (AnxA2) is a Ca(2+)- and acidic phospholipid-binding protein involved in many cellular processes. It undergoes Ca(2+)-mediated membrane bridging at neutral pH and has been demonstrated to be involved in an H(+)-mediated mechanism leading to a novel AnxA2-membrane complex structure. We used fluorescence techniques to characterize this H(+)-dependent mechanism at the molecular level; in particular, the involvement of the AnxA2 N-terminal domain. This domain was labeled at Cys-8 either with acrylodan or pyrene-maleimide fluorescent probes. Steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence analysis for acrylodan and fluorescence quenching by doxyl-labeled phospholipids revealed direct interaction between the N-terminal domain and the membrane. The absence of pyrene excimer suggested that interactions between N termini are not involved in the H(+)-mediated mechanism. These findings differ from those previously observed for the Ca(2+)-mediated mechanism. Protein titration experiments showed that the protein concentration for half-maximal membrane aggregation was twice for Ca(2+)-mediated compared with H(+)-mediated aggregation, suggesting that AnxA2 was able to bridge membranes either as a dimer or as a monomer, respectively. An N-terminally deleted AnxA2 was 2-3 times less efficient than the wild-type protein for H(+)-mediated membrane aggregation. We propose a model of AnxA2-membrane assemblies, highlighting the different roles of the N-terminal domain in the H(+)- and Ca(2+)-mediated membrane bridging mechanisms.

The annexin 2-S100A10 complex and its association with TRPV6 is regulated by cAMP/PKA/CnA in airway and gut epithelia

The formation of a heterotetrameric complex between annexin 2 (anx 2) and S100A10 plays an important role in regulating the cellular distribution and biochemical properties of anx 2. A major distinction between the anx 2-S100A10 complex and other annexin-S100 complexes is that S100A10 binding to anx 2 occurs independently of calcium. Here we describe a cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA, EC 2.7.1.37)-dependent mechanism regulating anx 2-S100A10 complex formation and its interaction with the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 6 channel (TRPV6) in airway and gut epithelia. In both 16HBE14o- and Caco-2 cells, forskolin (FSK) stimulated increased anx 2-S100A10 complex formation, which was attenuated by either PKA inhibitors or calcineurin A (CnA) inhibitors. The anx 2-S100A10 complex association with TRPV6 was dependent on FSK-induced CnA-dependent dephosphorylation of anx 2. Analysis of the significance of the cAMP/PKA/CnA pathway on calcium influx showed that both PKA and CnA inhibitors attenuated Ca(45) uptake in Caco-2, but not 16HBE14o-, cells. Thus, the cAMP/PKA/CnA-induced anx 2-S100A10/TRPV6 complex may require additional factors for calcium influx or play a role independent of calcium influx in airway epithelia. In conclusion, our data demonstrates that cAMP/PKA/CnA signalling is important for anx 2-S100A10 complex formation and interaction with target molecules in both absorptive and secretory epithelia.

Involvement of Annexin A2 in p53 induced apoptosis in lung cancer

Tumor suppressor p53 plays important roles in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis and DNA repair in different cell types including lung cancer. There are different p53 apoptotic pathways in high and low metastatic ability lung cancer cells. However, the exactly mechanism in the pathway is still unclear. Here we found that Annexin A2, a Ca2+ -dependent phospholipid-binding protein, is involved in p53-mediated apoptosis. First, by using mRNA differential display technique, down-regulated Annexin A2 expression was found in all cell lines transfected of Ad-p53 (adenoviral expression construct encoding wild type p53 gene) especially in highly metastatic Anip973 lung cancer cells. Then, decreased expression of Annexin A2 was further confirmed by Northern blot and Western blot analysis. At last, knock down of Annexin A2 by siRNA inhibited cellular proliferation in BE1 cell line with highly metastatic ability. Taken together, our results suggested that Annexin A2 may play roles in p53 induced apoptosis and it is also involved in regulation of cell proliferation.

Phospholipase D1 Production of Phosphatidic Acid at the Plasma Membrane Promotes Exocytosis of Large Dense-core Granules at a Late Stage

Substantial efforts have recently been made to demonstrate the importance of lipids and lipid-modifying enzymes in various membrane trafficking processes, including calcium-regulated exocytosis of hormones and neurotransmitters. Among bioactive lipids, phosphatidic acid (PA) is an attractive candidate to promote membrane fusion through its ability to change membrane topology. To date, however, the biosynthetic pathway, the dynamic location, and actual function of PA in secretory cells remain unknown. Using a short interference RNA strategy on chromaffin and PC12 cells, we demonstrate here that phospholipase D1 is activated in secretagogue-stimulated cells and that it produces PA at the plasma membrane at the secretory granule docking sites. We show that phospholipase D1 activation and PA production represent key events in the exocytotic progression. Membrane capacitance measurements indicate that reduction of endogenous PA impairs the formation of fusion-competent granules. Finally, we show that the PLD1 short interference RNA-mediated inhibition of exocytosis can be rescued by exogenous provision of a lipid that favors the transition of opposed bi-layer membranes to hemifused membranes having the outer leaflets fused. Our findings demonstrate that PA synthesis is required during exocytosis to facilitate a late event in the granule fusion pathway. We propose that the underlying mechanism is related to the ability of PA to alter membrane curvature and promote hemi-fusion.

Regulation of nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling of human annexin A2: a proposed mechanism

Studies have long been focused on the functions of annexin A2 in the cytoplasm. However, the involvement of annexin A2 in DNA replication as a part of primer recognition protein complex and the presence of nuclear export signal (NES) suggest that annexin A2 is also functional in the nucleus, and its localization in the nucleus is under regulation by interaction with other nuclear factors through its N-terminus. During the study of the mechanism of annexin A2 sequestering in the nucleus and the regulation of its export from the nucleus, in this study, we show that endogenous annexin A2 is present in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus in HeLa, PC-3 and DU-145 cells. While exogenously expressed annexin A2 is excluded from nuclei of annexin A2-null LNCaP cells in a CRM1 (Chromosome Maintenance Region 1) mediated nuclear export, endogenous annexin A2 in HeLa, PC-3 and DU-145 cell lines does not undergo the CRM1 mediated nuclear export. While investigating the mechanism of the nuclear retention of annexin A2, we found that an anti-annexin A2 antibody that recognizes the C-terminus of annexin A2 (D1/274.5) cannot recognize nuclear annexin A2, suggesting that the domain recognized by this antibody may be masked in the nuclei. In order to find out the role of annexin A2 C-terminus in the nuclear retention of annexin A2, we transiently transfected green fluorescence protein (GFP)-fused N-terminal 29 amino acids of annexin A2 to LNCaP, PC-3 and DU-145 cells, and determined that the C-terminus is not required for the nuclear retention of annexin A2. Based on the finding described above, we propose a model for nuclear retention of annexin A2 where the regulation sites reside in the N-terminus and are adjacent to the NES, and upon modification, the NES is exposed and annexin A2 is exported from the nucleus.

Expression of annexin A2 in GABAergic interneurons in the normal rat brain

Expression of the Ca(2+)-dependent phospholipids binding protein annexin A2 (ANX2) in the brain is thought to be largely associated with brain pathological conditions such as tumor, inflammation, and neurodegeneration. The recent findings that ANX2 heterotetramer is involved in learning and neuronal activities necessitates a systematic investigation of the physiological expression of ANX2 in the brain. With combination of in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, ANX2 mRNA and protein were specifically detected in a group of GABAergic interneurons throughout the brain. Although ANX2 was absent from the interior of pyramidal neurons, it was found on the membrane and seemly the extracellular space of those neurons, where they closely co-localized with glutamate decarboxylase terminals. In cultured developing neurons, ANX2 was present at high concentrations in the growth cones co-distributing with several growth-associated proteins such as growth associated protein 43 (GAP43), turned on after division/Ulip/CRMP (TUC-4), tubulin, and tissue-plasminogen activator. It then became predominantly distributed on the membrane and mostly in axonal branches as neurons grew and extended synaptic networks. ANX2 was also secreted from cultured neurons, in a membrane-bound form that was Ca(2+)-dependent, which was significantly increased by neuronal depolarization. These results may have implications in the function and regulatory mechanism of ANX2 in the normal brain.

Angiostatin receptor annexin II in vascular tumors including angiosarcoma

Inhibitors of angiogenesis, such as angiostatin, are increasingly used for targeting the tumor neovasculature and have had mixed success. Annexin II (ANX2), a 36KDa calcium and phospholipid binding protein, is a cell surface receptor for angiostatin. We hypothesized that, like normal vascular endothelium, vascular neoplasms would express ANX2, implying the potential usefulness of angiostatins in the therapy of this family of soft tissue tumors. Thirty-eight (38) vascular tumors tested included: hemangiomas - capillary [4], cavernous [6], lobular capillary [6], intramuscular hemangioma [3], spindle cell [1], and epithelioid hemangioma [4]; epithelioid hemangioendothelioma [3]; angiosarcoma [7], 4 of which were epithelioid; and angiolipomas [4]. ANX2 antibody (Zymed) was used (1/50 dilution, Ventana ES autostainer). Reactivity location (cytoplasmic, nuclear, membrane), intensity (1+/2+/3+), and quantity (focal, diffuse) was recorded. ANX2 was expressed in 97% of cases (37/38); mostly diffuse [35/37] and focal in 2 cases. Staining was strong (2+ or 3+) in 87%, and 1+ in 5/37 (14%), all benign tumors. Location was mostly cytoplasmic and membranous; no nuclear staining was seen. Both endothelium and pericytes were positive. Epithelioid angiosarcomas showed predominantly membranous staining. To our knowledge this is the first demonstration of an angiostatin receptor (ANX2) in vascular endothelial tumors including angiosarcoma. Diffuse and strong reactivity signified the absence of any down-regulation of ANX2 in both benign and malignant tumors. ANX2 reactivity may be the basis of treatment for a variety of benign tumors, especially in pediatric patients, and may offer a new and potentially less toxic therapy for angiosarcoma.

Identification of an AHNAK binding motif specific for the Annexin2/S100A10 tetramer

The Annexin2 tetramer (A2t), which consists of two Annexin2 molecules bound to a S100A10 dimer, is implicated in membrane-trafficking events. Here, we showed using a yeast triple-hybrid experiment and in vitro binding assay that Annexin2 is required for strong binding of S100A10 to the C-terminal domain of the protein Ahnak. We also revealed that this effect involves only the Annexin2 N-terminal tail, which is implicated in S100A10/Annexin2 tetramerization. The minimal A2t binding motif (A2tBP1) in Ahnak was mapped to a 20-amino acid peptide, and this peptide is highly specific for A2t. We also identified a second A2t binding motif (A2tBP2) present in the N-terminal domain of Ahnak, which binds to A2t, albeit with less affinity. When overexpressed as an EGFP fusion protein in MDCK cells, A2tBPs cofractionate in a calcium-dependent manner and co-immunoprecipitate with S100A10 and Annexin2. In living cells, A2tBPs target EGFP to the cytoplasm as does Annexin2. In response to oxidative and mechanical stress, EGFP-A2tBPs relocalize within minutes to the plasma membrane; a behavior shared with Annexin2-GFP. These results suggest that the A2t complex exists within the cytoplasm of resting living cells and that its localization at the plasma membrane relies on cellular signaling. Together, our data demonstrate that A2tBP1 is a specific A2t complex binding domain and may be a powerful tool to help elucidate A2t structure and cellular functions.

Annexins: linking Ca2+ signalling to membrane dynamics

Eukaryotic cells contain various Ca(2+)-effector proteins that mediate cellular responses to changes in intracellular Ca(2+) levels. A unique class of these proteins - annexins - can bind to certain membrane phospholipids in a Ca(2+)-dependent manner, providing a link between Ca(2+) signalling and membrane functions. By forming networks on the membrane surface, annexins can function as organizers of membrane domains and membrane-recruitment platforms for proteins with which they interact. These and related properties enable annexins to participate in several otherwise unrelated events that range from membrane dynamics to cell differentiation and migration.

The Small GTPase RalA controls exocytosis of large dense core secretory granules by interacting with ARF6-dependent phospholipase D1

RalA and RalB constitute a family of highly similar Ras-related GTPases widely distributed in different tissues. Recently, active forms of Ral proteins have been shown to bind to the exocyst complex, implicating them in the regulation of cellular secretion. Since RalA is present on the plasma membrane in neuroendocrine chromaffin and PC12 cells, we investigated the potential role of RalA in calcium-regulated exocytotic secretion. We show here that endogenous RalA is activated during exocytosis. Expression of the constitutively active RalA (G23V) mutant enhances secretagogue-evoked secretion from PC12 cells. Conversely, expression of the constitutively inactive GDP-bound RalA (G26A) or silencing of the RalA gene by RNA interference led to a strong impairment of the exocytotic response. RalA was found to co-localize with phospholipase D1 (PLD1) at the plasma membrane in PC12 cells. We demonstrate that cell stimulation triggers a direct interaction between RalA and ARF6-activated PLD1. Moreover, reduction of endogenous RalA expression level interfered with the activation of PLD1 observed in secretagogue-stimulated cells. Finally, using various RalA mutants selectively impaired in their ability to activate downstream effectors, we show that PLD1 activation is essential for the activation of secretion by GTP-loaded RalA. Together, these results provide evidence that RalA is a positive regulator of calcium-evoked exocytosis of large dense core secretory granules and suggest that stimulation of PLD1 and consequent changes in plasma membrane phospholipid composition is the major function RalA undertakes in calcium-regulated exocytosis.

Annexin 2 promotes the formation of lipid microdomains required for calcium-regulated exocytosis of dense-core vesicles

Annexin 2 is a calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding protein that has been implicated in a number of membrane-related events, including regulated exocytosis. In chromaffin cells, we previously reported that catecholamine secretion requires the translocation and formation of the annexin 2 tetramer near the exocytotic sites. Here, to obtain direct evidence for a role of annexin 2 in exocytosis, we modified its expression level in chromaffin cells by using the Semliki Forest virus expression system. Using a real-time assay for individual cells, we found that the reduction of cytosolic annexin 2, and the consequent decrease of annexin 2 tetramer at the cell periphery, strongly inhibited exocytosis, most likely at an early stage before membrane fusion. Secretion also was severely impaired in cells expressing a chimera that sequestered annexin 2 into cytosolic aggregates. Moreover, we demonstrate that secretagogue-evoked stimulation triggers the formation of lipid rafts in the plasma membrane, essential for exocytosis, and which can be attributed to the annexin 2 tetramer. We propose that annexin 2 acts as a calcium-dependent promoter of lipid microdomains required for structural and spatial organization of the exocytotic machinery.

Annexin 2 binding to phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate on endocytic vesicles is regulated by the stress response pathway

Annexin 2 is a Ca(2+)-binding protein that has an essential role in actin-dependent macropinosome motility. We show here that macropinosome rocketing can be induced by hyperosmotic shock, either alone or synergistically when combined with phorbol ester or pervanadate. Rocketing was blocked by inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase(s), p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase, and calcium, suggesting the involvement of phosphoinositide signaling. Since various phosphoinositides are enriched on inwardly mobile vesicles, we examined whether or not annexin 2 binds to any of this class of phospholipid. In liposome sedimentation assays, we show that recombinant annexin 2 binds to phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns-4,5P(2)) but not to other poly- and mono-phosphoinositides. The affinity of annexin 2 for PtdIns-4,5P(2) (K(D) approximately 5 microm) is comparable with those reported for a variety of PtdIns-4,5P(2)-binding proteins and is enhanced in the presence of Ca(2+). Although annexin 1 also bound to PtdIns-4,5P(2), annexin 5 did not, indicating that this is not a generic annexin property. To test whether annexin 2 binds to PtdIns-4,5P(2) in vivo, we microinjected rat basophilic leukemia cells stably expressing annexin 2-green fluorescent protein (GFP) with fluorescently tagged antibodies to PtdIns-4,5P(2). Annexin 2-GFP and anti-PtdIns-4,5P(2) IgG co-localize at sites of pinosome formation, and annexin 2-GFP relocalizes to intracellular membranes in Ptk cells microinjected with Arf6Q67L, which has been shown to stimulate PtdIns-4,5P(2) synthesis on pinosomes through activation of phosphatidylinositol 5 kinase. These results establish a novel phospholipid-binding specificity for annexin 2 consistent with a role in mediating the interaction between the macropinosome surface and the polymerized actin tail.

Annexin 2 expression is reduced in human osteosarcoma metastases

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive primary bone cancer affecting primarily children and young adults. The development of valuable diagnostic indicators and therapeutic agents will be enhanced by the identification and characterization of genes that contribute to its aggressive behavior. We used representational difference analysis to isolate genes differentially expressed between primary human osteosarcoma tumors and subsequent metastatic lung lesions to identify genes potentially involved in metastatic potential. Several genes were differentially expressed between the two tumor populations, including annexin2. The levels of annexin2 mRNA and protein inversely correlated with metastatic potential in a subset of human osteosarcoma tumor specimens, as well as in a human osteosarcoma cell line selected for increased metastatic potential. Annexin2 has been described in several cellular localizations with various functional implications, many of which may be relevant to metastatic potential. Therefore, the subcellular localization of endogenous annexin2 protein was evaluated biochemically by subcellular fractionation and immunologically by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence in osteoblastic cells. Annexin2 was localized to the cytoplasm and intracellular aspect of the plasma membrane, excluded from the nucleus and undetectable on the cell surface or in the conditioned medium. Overexpression of annexin2 in osteosarcoma cells did not alter several in vitro phenotypes often used to assess metastatic potential including motility, adhesion, and proliferation. However, our previous data have implicated annexin2 in the mineralization process of osteoblastic cells in vitro. Consistent with an increase in differentiation-induced mineralization, there was diminished tumorigenicity and experimental metastatic potential of osteosarcoma cells overexpressing annexin2. These data suggest that annexin2 may downregulate osteosarcoma aggressiveness by inducing a more differentiated state in osteoblastic cells.

Differential expression of syntaxin 1A and 1B by noradrenergic and adrenergic chromaffin cells

The expression and localization of syntaxin isoforms 1A and 1B in adrenergic and noradrenergic chromaffin cells were examined by both immunoblot analysis and confocal immunofluorescence microscopy. Syntaxin 1A was found in higher levels in noradrenergic cells, whereas syntaxin 1B was similarly expressed in most noradrenergic and adrenergic cells. However, some heterogeneity was observed within each catecholaminergic phenotype. Although the majority of adrenergic cells appeared to express low levels of syntaxin 1A, about 7% was strongly stained for syntaxin 1A. A subpopulation of noradrenergic cells, about 17%, expressed greater levels of syntaxin 1B. Syntaxin 1B labeling showed a punctate appearance in the cytoplasm, whereas syntaxin 1A appeared predominantly localized to the plasma membrane. These data show differences in the exocytotic machinery of the two subtypes of chromaffin cells that may underlie some of the distinct characteristics of adrenaline and noradrenaline secretion.

Nuclear annexin II negatively regulates growth of LNCaP cells and substitution of ser 11 and 25 to glu prevents nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling of annexin II

BACKGROUND

Annexin II heavy chain (also called p36, calpactin I) is lost in prostate cancers and in a majority of prostate intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN). Loss of annexin II heavy chain appears to be specific for prostate cancer since overexpression of annexin II is observed in a majority of human cancers, including pancreatic cancer, breast cancer and brain tumors. Annexin II exists as a heterotetramer in complex with a protein ligand p11 (S100A10), and as a monomer. Diverse cellular functions are proposed for the two forms of annexin II. The monomer is involved in DNA synthesis. A leucine-rich nuclear export signal (NES) in the N-terminus of annexin II regulates its nuclear export by the CRM1-mediated nuclear export pathway. Mutation of the NES sequence results in nuclear retention of annexin II.

RESULTS

Annexin II localized in the nucleus is phosphorylated, and the appearance of nuclear phosphorylated annexin II is cell cycle dependent, indicating that phosphorylation may play a role in nuclear entry, retention or export of annexin II. By exogenous expression of annexin II in the annexin II-null LNCaP cells, we show that wild-type annexin II is excluded from the nucleus, whereas the NES mutant annexin II localizes in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Nuclear retention of annexin II results in reduced cell proliferation and increased doubling time of cells. Expression of annexin II, both wild type and NES mutant, causes morphological changes of the cells. By site-specific substitution of glutamic acid in the place of serines 11 and 25 in the N-terminus, we show that simultaneous phosphorylation of both serines 11 and 25, but not either one alone, prevents nuclear localization of annexin II.

CONCLUSION

Our data show that nuclear annexin II is phosphorylated in a cell cycle-dependent manner and that substitution of serines 11 and 25 inhibit nuclear entry of annexin II. Aberrant accumulation of nuclear annexin II retards proliferation of LNCaP cells.

Annexins: from structure to function

Annexins are Ca2+ and phospholipid binding proteins forming an evolutionary conserved multigene family with members of the family being expressed throughout animal and plant kingdoms. Structurally, annexins are characterized by a highly alpha-helical and tightly packed protein core domain considered to represent a Ca2+-regulated membrane binding module. Many of the annexin cores have been crystallized, and their molecular structures reveal interesting features that include the architecture of the annexin-type Ca2+ binding sites and a central hydrophilic pore proposed to function as a Ca2+ channel. In addition to the conserved core, all annexins contain a second principal domain. This domain, which NH2-terminally precedes the core, is unique for a given member of the family and most likely specifies individual annexin properties in vivo. Cellular and animal knock-out models as well as dominant-negative mutants have recently been established for a number of annexins, and the effects of such manipulations are strikingly different for different members of the family. At least for some annexins, it appears that they participate in the regulation of membrane organization and membrane traffic and the regulation of ion (Ca2+) currents across membranes or Ca2+ concentrations within cells. Although annexins lack signal sequences for secretion, some members of the family have also been identified extracellularly where they can act as receptors for serum proteases on the endothelium as well as inhibitors of neutrophil migration and blood coagulation. Finally, deregulations in annexin expression and activity have been correlated with human diseases, e.g., in acute promyelocytic leukemia and the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and the term annexinopathies has been coined.

A role for phospholipase D1 in neurotransmitter release

Phosphatidic acid produced by phospholipase D (PLD) as a result of signaling activity is thought to play a role in membrane vesicle trafficking, either as an intracellular messenger or as a cone-shaped lipid that promotes membrane fusion. We recently described that, in neuroendocrine cells, plasma membrane-associated PLD1 operates at a stage of Ca(2+)-dependent exocytosis subsequent to cytoskeletal-mediated recruitment of secretory granules to exocytotic sites. We show here that PLD1 also plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter release. Using purified rat brain synaptosomes subjected to hypotonic lysis and centrifugation, we found that PLD1 is associated with the particulate fraction containing the plasma membrane. Immunostaining of rat cerebellar granule cells confirmed localization of PLD1 at the neuronal plasma membrane in zones specialized for neurotransmitter release (axonal neurites, varicosities, and growth cone-like structures). To determine the potential involvement of PLD1 in neurotransmitter release, we microinjected catalytically inactive PLD1(K898R) into Aplysia neurons and analyzed its effects on evoked acetylcholine (ACh) release. PLD1(K898R) produced a fast and potent dose-dependent inhibition of ACh release. By analyzing paired-pulse facilitation and postsynaptic responses evoked by high-frequency stimulations, we found that the exocytotic inhibition caused by PLD1(K898R) was not the result of an alteration in stimulus-secretion coupling or in vesicular trafficking. Analysis of the fluctuations in amplitude of the postsynaptic responses revealed that the PLD1(K898R) blocked ACh release by reducing the number of active presynaptic-releasing sites. Our results provide evidence that PLD1 plays a major role in neurotransmission, most likely by controlling the fusogenic status of presynaptic release sites.