Association of myosin I alpha with endosomes and lysosomes in mammalian cells

How Omecamtiv Modulates Myosin Motion

Myosin VI is a unique reverse-directed motor protein in the myosin family. The D179Y mutation in Myosin VI is associated with deafness in mammals. This mutation destroys the processive motion of myosin and inhibits its functional activity due to an elevated phosphate release rate. The current work explores the way by which this mutation affects the phosphate release rate and changes the action of Myosin VI. Our study involves a wide range of approaches comprising free energy-based simulations, contact map analysis, binding energy investigation, structural inspection, renormalization simulation, multiple sequence alignment, and bioinformatics analysis. It is found that when the evolutionary conserved aspartic acid (D179) of Myosin VI is mutated to tyrosine (Y179), it leads to premature phosphate release from Myosin VI. Most importantly, the drug omecamtiv rescues the processivity of the mutant by slowing down the actin-independent phosphate release from Myosin VI. Thus, we also explore the molecular mechanism behind the premature phosphate release of the D179Y mutant of Myosin VI and the actin-independent slowing down of the phosphate release in the presence of omecamtiv. This phosphate release modulation is related to Myosin VI's processivity as found experimentally. Overall, our proposed model indicates that omecamtiv significantly alters the interaction between the P-loop of Myosin VI and the interfacial residues, which is the driving force behind the slowing down of the phosphate release of the D179Y mutant in the presence of omecamtiv. Finally, our study provides additional support to our proposal that the directionality of myosins is determined by the highest barrier along the cycle and not by any dynamical effect.

Screening the human druggable genome identifies ABHD17B as an anti-fibrotic target in hepatic stellate cells

Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are activated with chronic liver injury and transdifferentiate into myofibroblasts, which produce excessive extracellular matrices that form the fibrotic scar. While the progression of fibrosis is understood to be the cause of end-stage liver disease, there are no approved therapies directed at interfering with the activity of HSC myofibroblasts. Here, we perform a high-throughput small interfering RNA (siRNA) screen in primary human HSC myofibroblasts to identify gene products necessary for the fibrotic phenotype of HSCs. We find that depletion of ABHD17B promotes the inactivation of HSCs, characterized by reduced COL1A1 and ACTA2 expression and accumulation of lipid droplets. Mice deficient in Abhd17b are also protected from fibrosis in the setting of in vivo liver injury. While ABHD17B is a depalmitoylase, our data suggest that ABHD17B promotes fibrosis through pathways independent of depalmitoylation that include interaction with MYO1B to modulate gene expression and HSC migration. Together, our results provide an analysis of the phenotypic consequences for siRNAs targeting RNAs from >9500 genes in primary human HSCs and identify ABHD17B as a potential therapeutic target to inhibit liver fibrosis.

Roles of myosin 1e and the actin cytoskeleton in kidney functions and familial kidney disease

Mammalian kidneys are responsible for removing metabolic waste and maintaining fluid and electrolyte homeostasis via selective filtration. One of the proteins closely linked to selective renal filtration is myosin 1e (Myo1e), an actin-dependent molecular motor found in the specialized kidney epithelial cells involved in the assembly and maintenance of the renal filter. Point mutations in the gene encoding Myo1e, MYO1E, have been linked to familial kidney disease, and Myo1e knockout in mice leads to the disruption of selective filtration. In this review, we discuss the role of the actin cytoskeleton in renal filtration, the known and hypothesized functions of Myo1e, and the possible explanations for the impact of MYO1E mutations on renal function.

Does the Actin Network Architecture Leverage Myosin-I Functions?

The actin cytoskeleton plays crucial roles in cell morphogenesis and functions. The main partners of cortical actin are molecular motors of the myosin superfamily. Although our understanding of myosin functions is heavily based on myosin-II and its ability to dimerize, the largest and most ancient class is represented by myosin-I. Class 1 myosins are monomeric, actin-based motors that regulate a wide spectrum of functions, and whose dysregulation mediates multiple human diseases. We highlight the current challenges in identifying the “pantograph” for myosin-I motors: we need to reveal how conformational changes of myosin-I motors lead to diverse cellular as well as multicellular phenotypes. We review several mechanisms for scaling, and focus on the (re-) emerging function of class 1 myosins to remodel the actin network architecture, a higher-order dynamic scaffold that has potential to leverage molecular myosin-I functions. Undoubtfully, understanding the molecular functions of myosin-I motors will reveal unexpected stories about its big partner, the dynamic actin cytoskeleton.

The Dendritic Ergic: Microtubule And Actin Cytoskeletons Participate In Stop-And-Go Movement Of Mobile Carriers Between Stable Structures

The ER-to-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC) is a membranous organelle that mediates protein transport between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the Golgi apparatus. In neurons, clusters of these vesiculotubular structures are situated throughout the cell in proximity to the ER, passing cargo to the cis-Golgi cisternae, located mainly in the perinuclear region. Although ERGIC markers have been identified in neurons, the distribution and dynamics of neuronal ERGIC structures have not been characterized yet. Here, we show that long-distance ERGIC transport occurs via an intermittent mechanism in dendrites, with mobile elements moving between stationary structures. Slow and fast live-cell imaging have captured stable ERGIC structures remaining in place over long periods of time, as well as mobile ERGIC structures advancing very short distances along dendrites. These short distances have been consistent with the lengths between the stationary ERGIC structures. Kymography revealed ERGIC elements that moved intermittently, emerging from and fusing with stationary ERGIC structures. Interestingly, this movement apparently depends not only on the integrity of the microtubule cytoskeleton, as previously reported, but on the actin cytoskeleton as well. Our results indicate that the dendritic ERGIC has a dual nature, with both stationary and mobile structures. The neural ERGIC network transports proteins via a stop-and-go movement in which both the microtubule and the actin cytoskeletons participate. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Plekhh1, a partner of myosin 1 and an effector of EphB2 controls the cortical actin network for cell repulsion

EphB2/ephrinB signalling that plays a major role in cell segregation during embryonic development and tissue homeostasis, induces an important reorganization of the cortical actin network. We have previously reported that myosin 1b contributes to the reorganisation of the cortical actin network upon EphB2 signalling. In this report we have identified Plekhh1, as a new partner of members of the myosin 1 family and EphB2 receptors. Plekhh1 interacts with myosin 1b via its N-terminus domain and with EphB2 via its C-terminus domain. Furthermore, Plekhh1 is tyrosine-phosphorylated, and this depends on EphB2 kinase activity. Such as the manipulation of the expression level of myosin 1b and myosin 1c, manipulation of Plekhh1 expression levels reveals that Plekhh1 controls the formation of filopodia, the length of focal adhesions and the formation of blebs. Furthermore, binding of Plekhh1 interacting domain to myosin 1b increases the motor activity of myosin 1b in vitro. Together our data show that Plekhh1 is an effector of EphB2 and suggest that Plekhh1 regulates the cortical actin network via the interaction of its N-terminus domain with myosin 1 upon EphB2/ephrinB signalling.

Myosins and Disease

Myosins constitute a superfamily of actin-based molecular motor proteins that mediates a variety of cellular activities including muscle contraction, cell migration, intracellular transport, the formation of membrane projections, cell adhesion, and cell signaling. The 12 myosin classes that are expressed in humans share sequence similarities especially in the N-terminal motor domain; however, their enzymatic activities, regulation, ability to dimerize, binding partners, and cellular functions differ. It is becoming increasingly apparent that defects in myosins are associated with diseases including cardiomyopathies, colitis, glomerulosclerosis, neurological defects, cancer, blindness, and deafness. Here, we review the current state of knowledge regarding myosins and disease.

K092A and K092B, Two Peptides Isolated from the Dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula L.), with Potential Antineoplastic Activity Against Human Prostate and Breast Cancer Cells

Cancer therapy is currently a major challenge within the research community, especially in reducing the side effects of treatments and to develop new specific strategies against cancers that still have a poor prognosis. In this context, alternative strategies using biotechnologies, such as marine peptides, have been developed based on their promise of effectivity associated with a low toxicity for healthy cells. The purpose of the present paper is to investigate the active mechanism of two peptides that were isolated from the epigonal tissue of the lesser spotted dogfish Scyliorhinus canicula L., identified NFDTDEQALEDVFSKYG (K092A) and EAPPEAAEEDEW (K092B) on the in vitro growth inhibition of ZR-75-1 mammary carcinoma cells and MDA-Pca-2b prostate cancer cells. The effects of the peptides on cell proliferation and cell death mechanisms were studied by the flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy approaches. The results have shown the onset of both K092A- and K092B-induced early cytoskeleton changes, and then cell cycle perturbations followed by non-apoptotic cell death. Moreover, impedance perturbation and plasma membrane perforation in ZR-75-1 K092A-treated cell cultures and autophagy inhibition in MDA-Pca-2b K092B-treated cells have been observed. In conclusion, these two bioactive peptides from dogfish exhibit antineoplastic activity on the human prostate and breast cancer cells in vitro.

Mechanisms of lysosomal positioning and movement

Lysosomes are highly dynamic organelles that can move rapidly throughout the cell. They distribute in a rather immobile pool located around the microtubule‐organizing center in a “cloud,” and a highly dynamic pool in the cell periphery. Their spatiotemporal characteristics allow them to carry out multiple biological functions, such as cargo degradation, antigen presentation and plasma membrane repair. Therefore, it is not surprising that lysosomal dysfunction underlies various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases. In most of these biological events, the involvement of lysosomes is dependent on their ability to move throughout the cytoplasm, to find and fuse to the correct compartments to receive and deliver substrates for further handling. These dynamics are orchestrated by motor proteins moving along cytoskeletal components. The complexity of the mechanisms responsible for controlling lysosomal transport has recently been appreciated and has yielded novel insights into interorganellar communication, as well as lipid‐protein interplay. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the mechanisms of lysosomal transport and the molecular machineries that control this mobility.

Myosin 1b promotes axon formation by regulating actin wave propagation and growth cone dynamics

Single-headed myosin 1 has been identified in neurons, but its function in these cells is still unclear. We demonstrate that depletion of myosin 1b (Myo1b), inhibition of its motor activity, or its binding to phosphoinositides impairs the formation of the axon, whereas overexpression of Myo1b increases the number of axon-like structures. Myo1b is associated with growth cones and actin waves, two major contributors to neuronal symmetry breaking. We show that Myo1b controls the dynamics of the growth cones and the anterograde propagation of the actin waves. By coupling the membrane to the actin cytoskeleton, Myo1b regulates the size of the actin network as well as the stability and size of filopodia in the growth cones. Our data provide the first evidence that a myosin 1 plays a major role in neuronal symmetry breaking and argue for a mechanical control of the actin cytoskeleton both in actin waves and in the growth cones by this myosin.

Arginase-II activates mTORC1 through myosin-1b in vascular cell senescence and apoptosis

Type-II L-arginine:ureahydrolase, arginase-II (Arg-II), is shown to activate mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway and contributes to cell senescence and apoptosis. In an attempt to elucidate the underlying mechanism, we identified myosin-1b (Myo1b) as a mediator. Overexpression of Arg-II induces re-distribution of lysosome and mTOR but not of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) from perinuclear area to cell periphery, dissociation of TSC from lysosome and activation of mTORC1-ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) pathway. Silencing Myo1b prevents all these alterations induced by Arg-II. By overexpressing Myo1b or its mutant with point mutation in its pleckstrin homology (PH) domain we further demonstrate that this effect of Myo1b is dependent on its PH domain that is required for Myo1b-lysosome association. Notably, Arg-II promotes association of Myo1b with lysosomes. In addition, we show that in senescent vascular smooth muscle cells with elevated endogenous Arg-II, silencing Myo1b prevents Arg-II-mediated lysosomal positioning, dissociation of TSC from lysosome, mTORC1 activation and cell apoptosis. Taken together, our study demonstrates that Myo1b mediates the effect of Arg-II in activating mTORC1-S6K1 through promoting peripheral lysosomal positioning, that results in spatial separation and thus dissociation of TSC from lysosome, leading to hyperactive mTORC1-S6K1 signaling linking to cellular senescence/apoptosis.

How myosin organization of the actin cytoskeleton contributes to the cancer phenotype

The human genome contains 39 genes that encode myosin heavy chains, classified on the basis of their sequence similarity into 12 classes. Most cells express at least 12 different genes, from at least 8 different classes, which are typically composed of several class 1 genes, at least one class 2 gene and classes 5, 6, 9, 10, 18 and 19. Although the different myosin isoforms all have specific and non-overlapping roles in the cell, in combination they all contribute to the organization of the actin cytoskeleton, and the shape and phenotype of the cell. Over (or under) expression of these different myosin isoforms can have strong effects on actin organization, cell shape and contribute to the cancer phenotype as discussed in this review.

Myosins: Domain Organisation, Motor Properties, Physiological Roles and Cellular Functions

Myosins are cytoskeletal motor proteins that use energy derived from ATP hydrolysis to generate force and movement along actin filaments. Humans express 38 myosin genes belonging to 12 classes that participate in a diverse range of crucial activities, including muscle contraction, intracellular trafficking, cell division, motility, actin cytoskeletal organisation and cell signalling. Myosin malfunction has been implicated a variety of disorders including deafness, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Usher syndrome, Griscelli syndrome and cancer. In this chapter, we will first discuss the key structural and kinetic features that are conserved across the myosin family. Thereafter, we summarise for each member in turn its unique functional and structural adaptations, cellular roles and associated pathologies. Finally, we address the broad therapeutic potential for pharmacological interventions that target myosin family members.

Moesin and cortactin control actin-dependent multivesicular endosome biogenesis

Moesin and cortactin on early endosomes are necessary for the formation of F-actin networks that mediate multivesicular endosome biogenesis and transport through the degradative pathway toward lysosomes. Presumably, this mechanism helps segregate recycling membranes from the maturing multivesicular endosomes.

We used in vivo and in vitro strategies to study the mechanisms of multivesicular endosome biogenesis. We found that, whereas annexinA2 and ARP2/3 mediate F-actin nucleation and branching, respectively, the ERM protein moesin supports the formation of F-actin networks on early endosomes. We also found that moesin plays no role during endocytosis and recycling to the plasma membrane but is absolutely required, much like actin, for early-to-late-endosome transport and multivesicular endosome formation. Both actin network formation in vitro and early-to-late endosome transport in vivo also depend on the F-actin–binding protein cortactin. Our data thus show that moesin and cortactin are necessary for formation of F-actin networks that mediate endosome biogenesis or maturation and transport through the degradative pathway. We propose that the primary function of endosomal F-actin is to control the membrane remodeling that accompanies endosome biogenesis. We also speculate that this mechanism helps segregate tubular and multivesicular membranes along the recycling and degradation pathways, respectively.

Myosin-I molecular motors at a glance

Myosin-I molecular motors are proposed to play various cellular roles related to membrane dynamics and trafficking. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster, we review and illustrate the proposed cellular functions of metazoan myosin-I molecular motors by examining the structural, biochemical, mechanical and cell biological evidence for their proposed molecular roles. We highlight evidence for the roles of myosin-I isoforms in regulating membrane tension and actin architecture, powering plasma membrane and organelle deformation, participating in membrane trafficking, and functioning as a tension-sensitive dock or tether. Collectively, myosin-I motors have been implicated in increasingly complex cellular phenomena, yet how a single isoform accomplishes multiple types of molecular functions is still an active area of investigation. To fully understand the underlying physiology, it is now essential to piece together different approaches of biological investigation. This article will appeal to investigators who study immunology, metabolic diseases, endosomal trafficking, cell motility, cancer and kidney disease, and to those who are interested in how cellular membranes are coupled to the underlying actin cytoskeleton in a variety of different applications.

Myosin 1b functions as an effector of EphB signaling to control cell repulsion

Myosin 1b functions as an effector of EphB2/ephrinB signaling and controls cell morphology and cell repulsion.

Eph receptors and their membrane-tethered ligands, the ephrins, have important functions in embryo morphogenesis and in adult tissue homeostasis. Eph/ephrin signaling is essential for cell segregation and cell repulsion. This process is accompanied by morphological changes and actin remodeling that drives cell segregation and tissue patterning. The actin cortex must be mechanically coupled to the plasma membrane to orchestrate the cell morphology changes. Here, we demonstrate that myosin 1b that can mechanically link the membrane to the actin cytoskeleton interacts with EphB2 receptors via its tail and is tyrosine phosphorylated on its tail in an EphB2-dependent manner. Myosin 1b regulates the redistribution of myosin II in actomyosin fibers and the formation of filopodia at the interface of ephrinB1 and EphB2 cells, which are two processes mediated by EphB2 signaling that contribute to cell repulsion. Together, our results provide the first evidence that a myosin 1 functions as an effector of EphB2/ephrinB signaling, controls cell morphology, and thereby cell repulsion.

The role of myosin 1c and myosin 1b in surfactant exocytosis

Actin and actin-associated proteins have a pivotal effect on regulated exocytosis in secretory cells and influence pre-fusion as well as post-fusion stages of exocytosis. Actin polymerization on secretory granules during the post-fusion phase (formation of an actin coat) is especially important in cells with large secretory vesicles or poorly soluble secretions. Alveolar type II (ATII) cells secrete hydrophobic lipo-protein surfactant, which does not easily diffuse from fused vesicles. Previous work showed that compression of actin coat is necessary for surfactant extrusion. Here, we investigate the role of class 1 myosins as possible linkers between actin and membranes during exocytosis. Live-cell microscopy showed translocation of fluorescently labeled myosin 1b and myosin 1c to the secretory vesicle membrane after fusion. Myosin 1c translocation was dependent on its pleckstrin homology domain. Expression of myosin 1b and myosin 1c constructs influenced vesicle compression rate, whereas only the inhibition of myosin 1c reduced exocytosis. These findings suggest that class 1 myosins participate in several stages of ATII cell exocytosis and link actin coats to the secretory vesicle membrane to influence vesicle compression.

Specific Myosins Control Actin Organization, Cell Morphology, and Migration in Prostate Cancer Cells

We investigated the myosin expression profile in prostate cancer cell lines and found that Myo1b, Myo9b, Myo10, and Myo18a were expressed at higher levels in cells with high metastatic potential. Moreover, Myo1b and Myo10 were expressed at higher levels in metastatic tumors. Using an siRNA-based approach, we found that knockdown of each myosin resulted in distinct phenotypes. Myo10 knockdown ablated filopodia and decreased 2D migration speed. Myo18a knockdown increased circumferential non-muscle myosin 2A-associated actin filament arrays in the lamella and reduced directional persistence of 2D migration. Myo9b knockdown increased stress fiber formation, decreased 2D migration speed, and increased directional persistence. Conversely, Myo1b knockdown increased numbers of stress fibers but did not affect 2D migration. In all cases, the cell spread area was increased and 3D migration potential was decreased. Therefore, myosins not only act as molecular motors but also directly influence actin organization and cell morphology, which can contribute to the metastatic phenotype.

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Myo1b, Myo9b, Myo10, and Myo18a are highly expressed in metastatic prostate cancer

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Knockdown of individual myosins distinctly affects the cytoskeleton and cell migration

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Myosins act in concert to directly influence actin organization and cell migration

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Misregulation of myosin expression may drive the metastatic phenotype

Myosin 1b Regulates Amino Acid Transport by Associating Transporters with the Apical Plasma Membrane of Kidney Cells

Amino acid transporters (AATers) in the brush border of the apical plasma membrane (APM) of renal proximal tubule (PT) cells mediate amino acid transport (AAT). We found that the membrane-associated class I myosin myosin 1b (Myo1b) localized at the apical brush border membrane of PTs. In opossum kidney (OK) 3B/2 epithelial cells, which are derived from PTs, expressed rat Myo1b-GFP colocalized in patched microvilli with expressed mouse V5-tagged SIT1 (SIT1-V5), which mediates neutral amino acid transport in OK cells. Lentivirus-mediated delivery of opossum Myo1b-specific shRNA resulted in knockdown (kd) of Myo1b expression, less SIT1-V5 at the APM as determined by localization studies, and a decrease in neutral AAT as determined by radioactive uptake assays. Myo1b kd had no effect on Pi transport or noticeable change in microvilli structure as determined by rhodamine phalloidin staining. The studies are the first to define a physiological role for Myo1b, that of regulating renal AAT by modulating the association of AATers with the APM.

A small molecule species specifically inhibits Fusarium myosin I

Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused by Fusarium graminearum is a devastating disease of cereal crops worldwide. Recently, a novel fungicide JS399-19 has been launched into the marketplace to manage FHB. It is compelling that JS399-19 shows highly inhibitory activity towards some Fusarium species, but not to other fungi, indicating that it is an environmentally compatible fungicide. To explore the mode of action of this species-specific compound, we conducted a whole-genome transcript profiling together with genetic and biochemical assays, and discovered that JS399-19 targets the myosin I of F. graminearum (FgMyo1). FgMyo1 is essential for F. graminearum growth. A point mutation S217L or E420K in FgMyo1 is responsible for F. graminearum resistance to JS399-19. In addition, transformation of F. graminearum with the myosin I gene of Magnaporthe grisea, the causal agent of rice blast, also led to JS399-19 resistance. JS399-19 strongly inhibits the ATPase activity of the wild-type FgMyo1, but not the mutated FgMyo1(S217L/E420K) . These results provide us a new insight into the design of species-specific antifungal compounds. Furthermore, our strategy can be applied to identify novel drug targets in various pathogenic organisms.

Septin6 and Septin7 GTP binding proteins regulate AP-3- and ESCRT-dependent multivesicular body biogenesis

Septins (SEPTs) form a family of GTP-binding proteins implicated in cytoskeleton and membrane organization, cell division and host/pathogen interactions. The precise function of many family members remains elusive. We show that SEPT6 and SEPT7 complexes bound to F-actin regulate protein sorting during multivesicular body (MVB) biogenesis. These complexes bind AP-3, an adapter complex sorting cargos destined to remain in outer membranes of maturing endosomes, modulate AP-3 membrane interactions and the motility of AP-3-positive endosomes. These SEPT-AP interactions also influence the membrane interaction of ESCRT (endosomal-sorting complex required for transport)-I, which selects ubiquitinated cargos for degradation inside MVBs. Whereas our findings demonstrate that SEPT6 and SEPT7 function in the spatial, temporal organization of AP-3- and ESCRT-coated membrane domains, they uncover an unsuspected coordination of these sorting machineries during MVB biogenesis. This requires the E3 ubiquitin ligase LRSAM1, an AP-3 interactor regulating ESCRT-I sorting activity and whose mutations are linked with Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies.

Myosin 1 controls membrane shape by coupling F-Actin to membrane

Cellular functions are intimately associated with rapid changes in membrane shape. Different mechanisms interfering with the lipid bilayer, such as the insertion of proteins with amphipatic helices or the association of a protein scaffold, trigger membrane bending. By exerting force on membranes, molecular motors can also contribute to membrane remodeling. Previous studies have shown that actin and myosin 1 participate in the invagination of the plasma membrane during endocytosis while kinesins and dynein with microtubules provide the force to elongate membrane buds at recycling endosomes and at the trans-Golgi network (TGN). Using live cell imaging we have recently shown that a myosin 1 (myosin 1b) regulates the actin dependent post-Golgi traffic of cargo and generates force that controls the assembly of F-actin foci and promotes with the actin cytoskeleton the formation of tubules at the TGN. Our data provide evidence that actin and myosin 1 can regulate membrane remodeling of organelles as well as having an unexpected role in the spatial organization of the actin cytoskeleton. Here, we discuss our results together with the role of actin and other myosins that have been implicated in the traffic of cargo.

The complex ultrastructure of the endolysosomal system

Live-cell imaging reveals the endolysosomal system as a complex and highly dynamic network of interacting compartments. Distinct types of endosomes are discerned by kinetic, molecular, and morphological criteria. Although none of these criteria, or combinations thereof, can capture the full complexity of the endolysosomal system, they are extremely useful for experimental purposes. Some membrane domain specializations and specific morphological characteristics can only be seen by ultrastructural analysis after preparation for electron microscopy (EM). Immuno-EM allows a further discrimination of seemingly identical compartments by their molecular makeup. In this review we provide an overview of the ultrastructural characteristics and membrane organization of endosomal compartments, along with their organizing machineries.

The role of the cytoskeleton and molecular motors in endosomal dynamics

The endocytic pathway is essential for processes that define how cells interact with their environment, including receptor signalling, cell adhesion and migration, pathogen entry, membrane protein turnover and nutrient uptake. The spatial organisation of endocytic trafficking requires motor proteins that tether membranes or transport them along the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons. Microtubules, actin filaments and motor proteins also provide force to deform and assist in the scission of membranes, thereby facilitating endosomal sorting and the generation of transport intermediates.

Myosins 1 and 6, myosin light chain kinase, actin and microtubules cooperate during antibody-mediated internalisation and trafficking of membrane-expressed viral antigens in feline infectious peritonitis virus infected monocytes

Monocytes infected with feline infectious peritonitis virus, a coronavirus, express viral proteins in their plasma membranes. Upon binding of antibodies, these proteins are quickly internalised through a new clathrin- and caveolae-independent internalisation pathway. By doing so, the infected monocytes can escape antibody-dependent cell lysis. In the present study, we investigated which kinases and cytoskeletal proteins are of importance during internalisation and subsequent intracellular transport. The experiments showed that myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) and myosin 1 are crucial for the initiation of the internalisation. With co-localisation stainings, it was found that MLCK and myosin 1 co-localise with antigens even before internalisation started. Myosin 6 co-localised with the internalising complexes during passage through the cortical actin, were it might play a role in moving or disintegrating actin filaments, to overcome the actin barrier. One minute after internalisation started, vesicles had passed the cortical actin, co-localised with microtubules and association with myosin 6 was lost. The vesicles were further transported over the microtubules and accumulated at the microtubule organising centre after 10 to 30 min. Intracellular trafficking over microtubules was mediated by MLCK, myosin 1 and a small actin tail. Since inhibiting MLCK with ML-7 was so efficient in blocking the internalisation pathway, this target can be used for the development of a new treatment for FIPV.

Myosin 1g regulates cytoskeleton plasticity, cell migration, exocytosis, and endocytosis in B lymphocytes

Myosin 1g (Myo1g) is a hematopoietic-specific myosin expressed mainly by lymphocytes. Here, we report the localization of Myo1g in B-cell membrane compartments such as lipid rafts, microvilli, and membrane extensions formed during spreading. By using Myo1g-deficient mouse B cells, we detected abnormalities in the adhesion ability and chemokine-induced directed migration of these lymphocytes. We also assessed a role for Myo1g in phagocytosis and exocytosis processes, as these were also irregular in Myo1g-deficient B cells. Taken together, our results show that Myo1g acts as a main regulator of different membrane/cytoskeleton-dependent processes in B lymphocytes.

Local cytoskeletal and organelle interactions impact molecular-motor- driven early endosomal trafficking

BACKGROUND

In the intracellular environment, motor-driven cargo must navigate a dense cytoskeletal network among abundant organelles.

RESULTS

We investigated the effects of the crowded intracellular environment on early endosomal trafficking. Live-cell imaging of an endosomal cargo (endocytosed epidermal growth factor-conjugated quantum dots) combined with high-resolution tracking was used to analyze the heterogeneous motion of individual endosomes. The motile population of endosomes moved toward the perinuclear region in directed bursts of microtubule-based, dynein-dependent transport interrupted by longer periods of diffusive motion. Actin network density did not affect motile endosomes during directed runs or diffusive interruptions. Simultaneous two-color imaging was used to correlate changes in endosomal movement with potential obstacles to directed runs. Termination of directed runs spatially correlated with microtubule-dense regions, encounters with other endosomes, and interactions with the endoplasmic reticulum. During a subset of run terminations, we also observed merging and splitting of endosomes, deformation of the endoplasmic reticulum, and directional reversals at speeds up to 10-fold greater than characteristic in vitro motor velocities. These observations suggest that endosomal membrane tension is high during directed run termination.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that the crowded cellular environment significantly impacts the motor-driven motility of organelles. Rather than simply acting as impediments to movement, interactions of trafficking cargos with intracellular obstacles may facilitate communication between membrane-bound compartments or contribute to the generation of membrane tension necessary for fusion and fission of endosomal membranes or remodeling of the endoplasmic reticulum.

Identification of cytoskeleton-associated proteins essential for lysosomal stability and survival of human cancer cells

Microtubule-disturbing drugs inhibit lysosomal trafficking and induce lysosomal membrane permeabilization followed by cathepsin-dependent cell death. To identify specific trafficking-related proteins that control cell survival and lysosomal stability, we screened a molecular motor siRNA library in human MCF7 breast cancer cells. SiRNAs targeting four kinesins (KIF11/Eg5, KIF20A, KIF21A, KIF25), myosin 1G (MYO1G), myosin heavy chain 1 (MYH1) and tropomyosin 2 (TPM2) were identified as effective inducers of non-apoptotic cell death. The cell death induced by KIF11, KIF21A, KIF25, MYH1 or TPM2 siRNAs was preceded by lysosomal membrane permeabilization, and all identified siRNAs induced several changes in the endo-lysosomal compartment, i.e. increased lysosomal volume (KIF11, KIF20A, KIF25, MYO1G, MYH1), increased cysteine cathepsin activity (KIF20A, KIF25), altered lysosomal localization (KIF25, MYH1, TPM2), increased dextran accumulation (KIF20A), or reduced autophagic flux (MYO1G, MYH1). Importantly, all seven siRNAs also killed human cervix cancer (HeLa) and osteosarcoma (U-2-OS) cells and sensitized cancer cells to other lysosome-destabilizing treatments, i.e. photo-oxidation, siramesine, etoposide or cisplatin. Similarly to KIF11 siRNA, the KIF11 inhibitor monastrol induced lysosomal membrane permeabilization and sensitized several cancer cell lines to siramesine. While KIF11 inhibitors are under clinical development as mitotic blockers, our data reveal a new function for KIF11 in controlling lysosomal stability and introduce six other molecular motors as putative cancer drug targets.

Identification and characterization of an unusual class I myosin involved in vesicle traffic in Trypanosoma brucei

Myosins are a multimember family of motor proteins with diverse functions in eukaryotic cells. African trypanosomes possess only two candidate myosins and thus represent a useful system for functional analysis of these motors. One of these candidates is an unusual class I myosin (TbMyo1) that is expressed at similar levels but organized differently during the life cycle of Trypanosoma brucei. This myosin localizes to the polarized endocytic pathway in bloodstream forms of the parasite. This organization is actin dependent. Knock down of TbMyo1 results in a significant reduction in endocytic activity, a cessation in cell division and eventually cell death. A striking morphological feature in these cells is an enlargement of the flagellar pocket, which is consistent with an imbalance in traffic to and from the surface. In contrast TbMyo1 is distributed throughout procyclic forms of the tsetse vector and a loss of ∼90% of the protein has no obvious effects on growth or morphology. These results reveal a life cycle stage specific requirement for this myosin in essential endocytic traffic and represent the first description of the involvement of a motor protein in vesicle traffic in these parasites.

Calmodulin dissociation regulates Myo5 recruitment and function at endocytic sites

Myosins-I are conserved proteins that bear an N-terminal motor head followed by a Tail Homology 1 (TH1) lipid-binding domain. Some myosins-I have an additional C-terminal extension (C(ext)) that promotes Arp2/3 complex-dependent actin polymerization. The head and the tail are separated by a neck that binds calmodulin or calmodulin-related light chains. Myosins-I are known to participate in actin-dependent membrane remodelling. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling their recruitment and their biochemical activities in vivo are far from being understood. In this study, we provided evidence suggesting the existence of an inhibitory interaction between the TH1 domain of the yeast myosin-I Myo5 and its C(ext). The TH1 domain prevented binding of the Myo5 C(ext) to the yeast WIP homologue Vrp1, Myo5 C(ext)-induced actin polymerization and recruitment of the Myo5 C(ext) to endocytic sites. Our data also indicated that calmodulin dissociation from Myo5 weakened the interaction between the neck and TH1 domains and the C(ext). Concomitantly, calmodulin dissociation triggered Myo5 binding to Vrp1, extended the myosin-I lifespan at endocytic sites and activated Myo5-induced actin polymerization.

Localization of myosin 1b to actin protrusions requires phosphoinositide binding

Myosin 1b (Myo1b), a class I myosin, is a widely expressed, single-headed, actin-associated molecular motor. Transient kinetic and single-molecule studies indicate that it is kinetically slow and responds to tension. Localization and subcellular fractionation studies indicate that Myo1b associates with the plasma membrane and certain subcellular organelles such as endosomes and lysosomes. Whether Myo1b directly associates with membranes is unknown. We demonstrate here that full-length rat Myo1b binds specifically and with high affinity to phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)) and phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-triphosphate (PIP(3)), two phosphoinositides that play important roles in cell signaling. Binding is not Ca(2+)-dependent and does not involve the calmodulin-binding IQ region in the neck domain of Myo1b. Furthermore, the binding site is contained entirely within the C-terminal tail region, which contains a putative pleckstrin homology domain. Single mutations in the putative pleckstrin homology domain abolish binding of the tail domain of Myo1b to PIP(2) and PIP(3) in vitro. These same mutations alter the distribution of Myc-tagged Myo1b at membrane protrusions in HeLa cells where PIP(2) localizes. In addition, we found that motor activity is required for Myo1b localization in filopodia. These results suggest that binding of Myo1b to phosphoinositides plays an important role in vivo by regulating localization to actin-enriched membrane projections.

Actin in the endocytic pathway: from yeast to mammals

Genetic analysis of endocytosis in yeast early pointed to the essential role of actin in the uptake step. Efforts to identify the machinery involved demonstrated the important contribution of Arp2/3 and the myosins-I. Analysis of the process using live-cell fluorescence microscopy and electron microscopy have recently contributed to refine molecular models explaining clathrin and actin-dependent endocytic uptake. Increasing evidence now also indicates that actin plays important roles in post-internalization events along the endocytic pathway in yeast, including transport of vesicles, motility of endosomes and vacuole fusion. This review describes the present knowledge state on the roles of actin in endocytosis in yeast and points to similarities and differences with analogous processes in mammals.

Different microtubule motors move early and late endocytic compartments

Important progress has been made during the past decade in the identification of molecular motors required in the distribution of early and late endosomes and the proper trafficking along the endocytic pathway. There is little direct evidence, however, that these motors drive movement of the endosomes. To evaluate the contributions of kinesin-1, dynein and kinesin-2 to the movement of early and late endosomes along microtubules, we made use of a cytosol-free motility assay using magnetically isolated early and late endosomes as well as biochemical analyses and live-cell imaging. By making use of specific antibodies, we confirmed that kinesin-1 and dynein move early endosomes and we found that kinesin-2 moves both early and late endosomes in the cell-free assay. Unexpectedly, dynein did not move late endosomes in the cell-free assay. We provide evidence from disruption of dynein function and latrunculin A treatment, suggesting that dynein regulates late endosome movement indirectly, possibly through a mechanism involving the actin cytoskeleton. These data provide new insights into the complex regulation of endosomes' motility and suggest that dynein is not the major motor required to move late endosomes toward the minus end of microtubules.

Cytoskeletal elements and intracellular transport

Recent advances in the understanding of the functions of various components of the cytoskeleton indicate that, besides serving a structural role, the cytoskeletal elements may regulate the transport of several proteins in the cell. Studies reveal that there are co-operative interactions between the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons including functional overlap in the transport influenced by different motor families. Multiple motors are probably involved in the control of the dynamics of many proteins and intriguing hints about how these motors are co-ordinated are appearing. It has been shown that some of the intermediate elements also participate in selected intracellular transport mechanisms. In view of the author's preoccupation with the steroid receptor systems, special attention has been given to the role of the cytoskeletal elements, particularly actin, in the intracellular transport of steroid receptors and receptor-related proteins.

A role for myosin 1e in cortical granule exocytosis in Xenopus oocytes

Xenopus oocytes undergo dynamic structural changes during maturation and fertilization. Among these, cortical granule exocytosis and compensatory endocytosis provide effective models to study membrane trafficking. This study documents an important role for myosin 1e in cortical granule exocytosis. Myosin 1e is expressed at the earliest stage that cortical granule exocytosis can be detected in oocytes. Prior to exocytosis, myosin 1e relocates to the surface of cortical granules. Overexpression of myosin 1e augments the kinetics of cortical granule exocytosis, whereas tail-derived fragments of myosin 1e inhibit this secretory event (but not constitutive exocytosis). Finally, intracellular injection of myosin 1e antibody inhibits cortical granule exocytosis. Further experiments identified cysteine string proteins as interacting partners for myosin 1e. As constituents of the membrane of cortical granules, cysteine string proteins are also essential for cortical granule exocytosis. Future investigation of the link between myosin 1e and cysteine string proteins should help to clarify basic mechanisms of regulated exocytosis.

Myosins in melanocytes: to move or not to move?

The actin network has been implicated in the intracellular transport and positioning of the melanosomes, organelles that are specialized in the biosynthesis and the storage of melanin. It contributes also to molecular mechanisms that underlie the intracellular membrane dynamics and thereby can control the biogenesis of melanosomes. Two mechanisms for actin-based movements have been identified: one is dependent on the motors associated to actin namely the myosins; the other is dependent on actin polymerization. This review will focus on to the role of the actin cytoskeleton and myosins in the transport and in the biogenesis of melanosomes. Myosins involved in membrane traffic are largely seen as transporters of organelles or membrane vesicles containing cargos along the actin networks. Yet increasing evidence suggests that some of the myosins contribute to the dynamics of internal membrane by using other mechanisms. The role of the myosins and the different molecular mechanisms by which they contribute or may contribute to the distribution, the movement and the biogenesis of the melanosomes in epidermal melanocytes and retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells will be discussed.

Myosin Ib modulates the morphology and the protein transport within multi-vesicular sorting endosomes

Members of at least four classes of myosin (I, II, V and VI) have been implicated in the dynamics of a large variety of organelles. Despite their common motor domain structure, some of these myosins, however, are non processive and cannot move organelles along the actin tracks. Here, we demonstrate in the human pigmented MNT-1 cell line that, (1) the overexpression of one of these myosins, myosin 1b, or the addition of cytochalasin D affects the morphology of the sorting multivesicular endosomes; (2) the overexpression of myosin 1b delays the processing of Pmel17 (the product of murine silver locus also named GP100), which occurs in these multivesicular endosomes; (3) myosin 1b associated with endosomes coimmunoprecipitates with Pmel17. All together, these observations suggest that myosin 1b controls the traffic of protein cargo in multivesicular endosomes most probably through its ability to modulate with actin the morphology of these sorting endosomes.

The unconventional myosin-VIIa associates with lysosomes

Mutations in the myosin-VIIa (MYO7a) gene cause human Usher disease, characterized by hearing impairment and progressive retinal degeneration. In the retina, myosin-VIIa is highly expressed in the retinal pigment epithelium, where it plays a role in the positioning of melanosomes and other digestion organelles. Using a human cultured retinal pigmented epithelia cell line, ARPE-19, as a model system, we have found that a population of myosin-VIIa is associated with cathepsin D- and Rab7-positive lysosomes. Association of myosin-VIIa with lysosomes was Rab7 independent, as dominant negative and dominant active versions of Rab7 did not disrupt myosin-VIIa recruitment to lysosomes. Association of myosin-VIIa with lysosomes was also independent of the actin and microtubule cytoskeleton. Myosin-VIIa copurified with lysosomes on density gradients, and fractionation and extraction experiments suggested that it was tightly associated with the lysosome surface. These studies suggest that myosin-VIIa is a lysosome motor.

Myosins: tails (and heads) of functional diversity

The myosin family of actin filament-based molecular motors consists of at least 20 structurally and functionally distinct classes. The human genome contains nearly 40 myosin genes, encoding 12 of these classes. Myosins have been implicated in a variety of intracellular functions, including cell migration and adhesion; intracellular transport and localization of organelles and macromolecules; signal transduction; and tumor suppression. In this review, recent insights into the remarkable diversity in the mechanochemical and functional properties associated with this family of molecular motors are discussed.

Loop 1 of transducer region in mammalian class I myosin, Myo1b, modulates actin affinity, ATPase activity, and nucleotide access

Loop 1, a flexible surface loop in the myosin motor domain, comprises in part the transducer region that lies near the nucleotide-binding site and is proposed from structural studies to be responsible for the kinetic tuning of product release following ATP hydrolysis (1). Biochemical studies have shown that loop 1 affects the affinity of actin-myosin-II for ADP, motility and the V(max) of the actin-activated Mg2+-ATPase activity, possibly through P(i) release (2-8). To test the influence of loop 1 on the mammalian class I myosin, Myo1b, chimeric molecules in which (i) loop 1 of a truncated form of Myo1b, Myo1b1IQ, was replaced with either loop 1 from other myosins; (ii) loop 1 was replaced with glycine; or (iii) some amino acids in the loop were substituted with alanine and were expressed in baculovirus, and their interactions with actin and nucleotide were evaluated. The steady-state actin-activated ATPase activity; rate of ATP-induced dissociation of actin from Myo1b1IQ; rate of ADP release from actin-Myo1b1IQ; and the affinity of actin for Myo1b1IQ and Myo1b1IQ.ADP differed in the chimeras versus wild type, indicating that loop 1 has a much wider range of effects on the coupling between actin and nucleotide binding events than previously thought. In particular, the biphasic ATP-induced dissociation of actin from actin-Myo1b1IQ was significantly altered in the chimeras. This provided evidence that loop 1 contributes to the accessibility of the nucleotide pocket and is involved in the integration of information from the actin-, nucleotide-, gamma-P(i)-, and calmodulin-binding sites and predicts that loop 1 modulates the load dependence of the motor.

Rab8 regulates the actin-based movement of melanosomes

Rab GTPases have been implicated in the regulation of specific microtubule- and actin-based motor proteins. We devised an in vitro motility assay reconstituting the movement of melanosomes on actin bundles in the presence of ATP to investigate the role of Rab proteins in the actin-dependent movement of melanosomes. Using this assay, we confirmed that Rab27 is required for the actin-dependent movement of melanosomes, and we showed that a second Rab protein, Rab8, also regulates this movement. Rab8 was partially associated with mature melanosomes. Expression of Rab8Q67L perturbed the cellular distribution and increased the frequency of microtubule-independent movement of melanosomes in vivo. Furthermore, anti-Rab8 antibodies decreased the number of melanosomes moving in vitro on actin bundles, whereas melanosomes isolated from cells expressing Rab8Q67L exhibited 70% more movements than wild-type melanosomes. Together, our observations suggest that Rab8 is involved in regulating the actin-dependent movement of melanosomes.

Functional characterization of myosin I tail regions in Candida albicans

The molecular motor myosin I is required for hyphal growth in the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans. Specific myosin I functions were investigated by a deletion analysis of five neck and tail regions. Hyphal formation requires both the TH1 region and the IQ motifs. The TH2 region is important for optimal hyphal growth. All of the regions, except for the SH3 and acidic (A) regions that were examined individually, were required for the localization of myosin I at the hyphal tip. Similarly, all of the domains were required for the association of myosin I with pelletable actin-bound complexes. Moreover, the hyphal tip localization of cortical actin patches, identified by both rhodamine-phalloidin staining and Arp3-green fluorescent protein signals, was dependent on myosin I. Double deletion of the A and SH3 domains depolarized the distribution of the cortical actin patches without affecting the ability of the mutant to form hyphae, suggesting that myosin I has distinct functions in these processes. Among the six myosin I tail domain mutants, the ability to form hyphae was strictly correlated with endocytosis. We propose that the uptake of cell wall remodeling enzymes and excess plasma membrane is critical for hyphal formation.

RhoB and actin polymerization coordinate Src activation with endosome-mediated delivery to the membrane

We have used a c-Src-GFP fusion protein to address the spatial control of Src activation and the nature of Src-associated intracellular structures during stimulus-induced transit to the membrane. Src is activated during transit, particularly in RhoB-containing cytoplasmic endosomes associated with the perinuclear recycling compartment. Knocking out RhoB or expressing a dominant-interfering Rab11 mutant suppresses both catalytic activation of Src and translocation of active kinase to peripheral membrane structures. In addition, the Src- and RhoB-containing endosomes harbor proteins involved in actin polymerization and filament assembly, for example Scar1, and newly polymerized actin can associate with these endosomes in a Src-dependent manner. This implies that Src may regulate an endosome-associated actin nucleation activity. In keeping with this, Src controls the actin dependence of RhoB endosome movement toward the plasma membrane. This work identifies RhoB as a component of "outside-in" signaling pathways that coordinate Src activation with translocation to transmembrane receptors.

Altered traffic to the lysosome in an ex vivo lacrimal acinar cell model for chronic muscarinic receptor stimulation

Evidence suggests that lacrimal and salivary epithelial cells constitutively expose potentially pathogenic autoantigens, but that active regulatory networks normally suppress pathological autoimmune responses . Events that potentially disrupt the regulatory networks include increased exposure of constitutive autoantigens and induced exposure of previously cryptic autoantigen epitopes. Chronic muscarinic receptor (MAChR) stimulation in an ex vivo rabbit lacrimal acinar cell model induces functional and biochemical alterations reminiscent of the functional quiescence associated with Sjogren's syndrome . Chronic MAChR stimulation also elicits changes in the compartmental distribution of beta-hexosaminidase, a product that normally is dually targeted into the lysosomal pathway and the regulated apical secretory pathway. Here, we use subcellular fractionation analyses to further explore the nature of the stimulation-induced traffic changes and to identify effectors that might mediate this change. Overnight stimulation of primary cultured rabbit lacrimal gland acinar cells with 10 microM carbachol (CCh) significantly decreased the abundance of mature cathepsin B in the pre-lysosome and lysosome; decreased the abundance of preprocathepsin B in fractions containing the TGN and late endosome; increased the abundance of procathepsin B in fractions containing the basal-lateral membrane; and increased the accumulation of endocytosed [(125)I]-EGF in the recycling endosome. Alterations in distribution or abundance of traffic effectors included: increased abundances of rab5A and rab6 in the TGN; decreased overall abundance of gamma-adaptin; remarkably increased relative abundance of membrane phase-associated actin; redistribution of cytoplasmic dynein from biosynthetic and proximal endocytic compartments to the lysosome; and redistribution of p150(Glued) from the lysosome to biosynthetic or proximal endocytic compartments. We conclude that chronic MAChR stimulation blocks traffic from the early endosome and the TGN to the lysosome, causing lysosomal proteins to reflux to the TGN, endosomes, and basal-lateral membrane. These traffic alterations may be mediated through action on one or more of the effectors noted.

Mammalian class I myosin, Myo1b, is monomeric and cross-links actin filaments as determined by hydrodynamic studies and electron microscopy

The class I myosin, Myo1b, is a calmodulin- and actin-associated molecular motor widely expressed in mammalian tissues. Analytical ultracentrifugation studies indicate that Myo1b purified from rat liver has a Stokes radius of 6.7 nm and a sedimentation coefficient, s(20,w), of 7.0 S with a predicted molar mass of 213 kg/mol. These results indicate that Myo1b is monomeric and consists primarily of a splice variant having five associated calmodulins. Molecular modeling based on the analytical ultracentrifugation studies are supported by electron microscopy studies that depict Myo1b as a single-headed, tadpole-shaped molecule with outer dimensions of 27.9 x 4.0 nm. Above a certain Myo1b/actin ratio, Myo1b bundles actin filaments presumably by virtue of a second actin-binding site. These studies provide new information regarding the oligomeric state and morphology of Myo1b and support a model in which Myo1b cross-links actin through a cryptic actin-binding site.