Interaction of Nck1 and PERK phosphorylated at Y⁵⁶¹ negatively modulates PERK activity and PERK regulation of pancreatic β-cell proinsulin content

Adapting to change: resolving the dynamic and dual roles of NCK1 and NCK2

Adaptor proteins play central roles in the assembly of molecular complexes and co-ordinated activation of specific pathways. Through their modular domain structure, the NCK family of adaptor proteins (NCK1 and NCK2) link protein targets via their single SRC Homology (SH) 2 and three SH3 domains. Classically, their SH2 domain binds to phosphotyrosine motif-containing receptors (e.g. receptor tyrosine kinases), while their SH3 domains bind polyproline motif-containing cytoplasmic effectors. Due to these functions being established for both NCK1 and NCK2, their roles were inaccurately assumed to be redundant. However, in contrast with this previously held view, NCK1 and NCK2 now have a growing list of paralog-specific functions, which underscores the need to further explore their differences. Here we review current evidence detailing how these two paralogs are unique, including differences in their gene/protein regulation, binding partners and overall contributions to cellular functions. To help explain these contrasting characteristics, we then discuss SH2/SH3 structural features, disordered interdomain linker regions and post-translational modifications. Together, this review seeks to highlight the importance of distinguishing NCK1 and NCK2 in research and to pave the way for investigations into the origins of their interaction specificity.

Signaling plasticity in the integrated stress response

The Integrated Stress Response (ISR) is an essential homeostatic signaling network that controls the cell's biosynthetic capacity. Four ISR sensor kinases detect multiple stressors and relay this information to downstream effectors by phosphorylating a common node: the alpha subunit of the eukaryotic initiation factor eIF2. As a result, general protein synthesis is repressed while select transcripts are preferentially translated, thus remodeling the proteome and transcriptome. Mounting evidence supports a view of the ISR as a dynamic signaling network with multiple modulators and feedback regulatory features that vary across cell and tissue types. Here, we discuss updated views on ISR sensor kinase mechanisms, how the subcellular localization of ISR components impacts signaling, and highlight ISR signaling differences across cells and tissues. Finally, we consider crosstalk between the ISR and other signaling pathways as a determinant of cell health.

Activation of farnesoid X receptor suppresses ER stress and inflammation via the YY1/NCK1/PERK pathway in large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea)

Unfolded protein responses from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress have been implicated in inflammatory signaling. The vicious cycle of ER stress and inflammation makes regulation even more difficult. This study examined effects of farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in ER-stress regulation in large yellow croakers. The soybean-oil-diet-induced expression of ER stress markers was decreased in fish with FXR activated. In croaker macrophages, FXR activation or overexpression significantly reduced inflammation and ER stress caused by tunicamycin (TM), which was exacerbated by FXR knockdown. Further investigation showed that the TM-induced phosphorylation of PERK and EIF2α was inhibited by the overexpression of croaker FXR, and it was increased by FXR knockdown. Croaker NCK1 was then confirmed to be a regulator of PERK, and its expression in macrophages is increased by FXR overexpression and decreased by FXR knockdown. The promoter activity of croaker NCK1 was inhibited by yin-yang 1 (YY1). Furthermore, the results show that croaker FXR overexpression could suppress the P65-induced promoter activity of YY1 in HEK293t cells and decrease the TM-induced expression of yy1 in macrophages. These results indicate that FXR could suppress P65-induced yy1 expression and then increase NCK1 expression, thereby inhibiting the PERK pathway. This study may benefit the understanding of ER stress regulation in fish, demonstrating that FXR can be used in large yellow croakers as an effective target for regulating ER stress and inflammation.

The "Yin and Yang" of Unfolded Protein Response in Cancer and Immunogenic Cell Death

Physiological and pathological burdens that perturb endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis activate the unfolded protein response (UPR), a conserved cytosol-to-nucleus signaling pathway that aims to reinstate the vital biosynthetic and secretory capacity of the ER. Disrupted ER homeostasis, causing maladaptive UPR signaling, is an emerging trait of cancer cells. Maladaptive UPR sustains oncogene-driven reprogramming of proteostasis and metabolism and fosters proinflammatory pathways promoting tissue repair and protumorigenic immune responses. However, when cancer cells are exposed to conditions causing irreparable ER homeostasis, such as those elicited by anticancer therapies, the UPR switches from a survival to a cell death program. This lethal ER stress response can elicit immunogenic cell death (ICD), a form of cell death with proinflammatory traits favoring antitumor immune responses. How UPR-driven pathways transit from a protective to a killing modality with favorable immunogenic and proinflammatory output remains unresolved. Here, we discuss key aspects of the functional dichotomy of UPR in cancer cells and how this signal can be harnessed for therapeutic benefit in the context of ICD, especially from the aspect of inflammation aroused by the UPR.

Lack of Nck1 protein and Nck-CD3 interaction caused the increment of lipid content in Jurkat T cells

BACKGROUND

The non-catalytic region of tyrosine kinase (Nck) is an adaptor protein, which is ubiquitously expressed in many types of cells. In T cells, the Nck1 isoform promotes T cell receptor signalling as well as actin polymerisation. However, the role of Nck1 in the lipid metabolism in T cells is unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effect of the Nck1 protein and Nck-CD3 interaction on lipid metabolism and on the physical and biological properties of Jurkat T cells, using a newly developed holotomographic microscope.

RESULTS

Holotomographic microscopy showed that Nck1-knocked-out cells had membrane blebs and were irregular in shape compared to the rounded control cells. The cell size and volume of Nck1-deficient cells were comparable to those of the control cells. Nck1-knocked-out Jurkat T cells had a greater lipid content, lipid mass/cell mass ratio, and lipid metabolite levels than the control cells. Interestingly, treatment with a small molecule, AX-024, which inhibited Nck-CD3 interaction, also caused an increase in the lipid content in wild-type Jurkat T cells, as found in Nck1-deficient cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Knockout of Nck1 protein and hindrance of the Nck-CD3 interaction cause the elevation of lipid content in Jurkat T cells.

The Spliced Leader RNA Silencing (SLS) Pathway in Trypanosoma brucei Is Induced by Perturbations of Endoplasmic Reticulum, Golgi Complex, or Mitochondrial Protein Factors: Functional Analysis of SLS-Inducing Kinase PK3

In the parasite Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of human African sleeping sickness, all mRNAs are trans-spliced to generate a common 5′ exon derived from the spliced leader (SL) RNA. Perturbations of protein translocation across the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) induce the spliced leader RNA silencing (SLS) pathway. SLS activation is mediated by a serine-threonine kinase, PK3, which translocates from the cytosolic face of the ER to the nucleus, where it phosphorylates the TATA-binding protein TRF4, leading to the shutoff of SL RNA transcription, followed by induction of programmed cell death. Here, we demonstrate that SLS is also induced by depletion of the essential ER-resident chaperones BiP and calreticulin, ER oxidoreductin 1 (ERO1), and the Golgi complex-localized quiescin sulfhydryl oxidase (QSOX). Most strikingly, silencing of Rhomboid-like 1 (TIMRHOM1), involved in mitochondrial protein import, also induces SLS. The PK3 kinase, which integrates SLS signals, is modified by phosphorylation on multiple sites. To determine which of the phosphorylation events activate PK3, several individual mutations or their combination were generated. These mutations failed to completely eliminate the phosphorylation or translocation of the kinase to the nucleus. The structures of PK3 kinase and its ATP binding domain were therefore modeled. A conserved phenylalanine at position 771 was proposed to interact with ATP, and the PK3^F771L mutation completely eliminated phosphorylation under SLS, suggesting that the activation involves most if not all of the phosphorylation sites. The study suggests that the SLS occurs broadly in response to failures in protein sorting, folding, or modification across multiple compartments.

Nck adaptors at a glance

The non-catalytic region of tyrosine kinase (Nck) family of adaptors, consisting of Nck1 and Nck2, contributes to selectivity and specificity in the flow of cellular information by recruiting components of signaling networks. Known to play key roles in cytoskeletal remodeling, Nck adaptors modulate host cell-pathogen interactions, immune cell receptor activation, cell adhesion and motility, and intercellular junctions in kidney podocytes. Genetic inactivation of both members of the Nck family results in embryonic lethality; however, viability of mice lacking either one of these adaptors suggests partial functional redundancy. In this Cell Science at a Glance and the accompanying poster, we highlight the molecular organization and functions of the Nck family, focusing on key interactions and pathways, regulation of cellular processes, development, homeostasis and pathogenesis, as well as emerging and non-redundant functions of Nck1 compared to those of Nck2. This article thus aims to provide a timely perspective on the biology of Nck adaptors and their potential as therapeutic targets.

Sinner or Saint?: Nck Adaptor Proteins in Vascular Biology

The Nck family of modular adaptor proteins, including Nck1 and Nck2, link phosphotyrosine signaling to changes in cytoskeletal dynamics and gene expression that critically modulate cellular phenotype. The Nck SH2 domain interacts with phosphotyrosine at dynamic signaling hubs, such as activated growth factor receptors and sites of cell adhesion. The Nck SH3 domains interact with signaling effectors containing proline-rich regions that mediate their activation by upstream kinases. In vascular biology, Nck1 and Nck2 play redundant roles in vascular development and postnatal angiogenesis. However, recent studies suggest that Nck1 and Nck2 differentially regulate cell phenotype in the adult vasculature. Domain-specific interactions likely mediate these isoform-selective effects, and these isolated domains may serve as therapeutic targets to limit specific protein-protein interactions. In this review, we highlight the function of the Nck adaptor proteins, the known differences in domain-selective interactions, and discuss the role of individual Nck isoforms in vascular remodeling and function.

Normal and defective pathways in biogenesis and maintenance of the insulin storage pool

Both basal and glucose-stimulated insulin release occur primarily by insulin secretory granule exocytosis from pancreatic β cells, and both are needed to maintain normoglycemia. Loss of insulin-secreting β cells, accompanied by abnormal glucose tolerance, may involve simple exhaustion of insulin reserves (which, by immunostaining, appears as a loss of β cell identity), or β cell dedifferentiation, or β cell death. While various sensing and signaling defects can result in diminished insulin secretion, somewhat less attention has been paid to diabetes risk caused by insufficiency in the biosynthetic generation and maintenance of the total insulin granule storage pool. This Review offers an overview of insulin biosynthesis, beginning with the preproinsulin mRNA (translation and translocation into the ER), proinsulin folding and export from the ER, and delivery via the Golgi complex to secretory granules for conversion to insulin and ultimate hormone storage. All of these steps are needed for generation and maintenance of the total insulin granule pool, and defects in any of these steps may, weakly or strongly, perturb glycemic control. The foregoing considerations have obvious potential relevance to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and some forms of monogenic diabetes; conceivably, several of these concepts might also have implications for β cell failure in type 1 diabetes.

Shikonin induces tumor apoptosis in glioma cells via endoplasmic reticulum stress, and Bax/Bak mediated mitochondrial outer membrane permeability

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Shikonin, one of the main active ingredients of Chinese herbal medicine Lithospermum erythrorhizon, has been widely used to treat various disease including virus infection and inflammation in clinical. Its anti-tumor activity has been recorded in "Chinese herbal medicine". Recently, some studies about its anti-glioma effects have been reported. However, little is known about the molecular pharmacological activity of Shikonin in glioma.

AIM

This study aimed to systematically uncover and validate the pharmacological mechanism of Shikonin against glioma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Network pharmacology approach, survival analysis, and Pearson co-expression analysis were performed to uncover and test the pharmacological mechanisms of Shikonin in glioma. Apoptosis assay, Caspase-3 activity assay and immunoblot analysis were practiced to validate the mechanisms.

RESULTS

Network pharmacology results suggested, anti-glioma effect of Shikonin by interfering endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated tumor apoptosis targeting Caspase-3, and Bax/Bak-induced mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) triggering cancer cell apoptosis. Survival analysis suggested the association of CASP3 with glioma (P < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis indicated possible interaction of CASP3 with PERK through positive feedback regulation. Shikonin or in combination with 14G2a induced cell apoptosis in oligodendroglioma Hs683 cells in a dose-dependent manner with at a maximum apoptosis rate of 33%-37.5%, and 73%-77% respectively. Immunoblot analysis showed that Shikonin increased Caspase-3 activity to about 4.29 times, and increased 9 times when it combined with 14G2a. Shikonin increased also the expression levels of the proteins PERK and CHOP by about 4.4 and 5.6 folds, respectively, when it combined with 14G2a.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the pharmacological mechanisms of Shikonin in the induction of tumor apoptosis in glioma cells.

Tyrosine kinase signaling in and on the endoplasmic reticulum

Tyrosine kinases are signaling molecules that are common to all metazoans and are involved in the regulation of many cellular processes such as proliferation and survival. While most attention has been devoted to tyrosine kinases signaling at the plasma membrane and the cytosol, very little attention has been dedicated to signaling at endomembranes. In this review, I will discuss recent evidence that we obtained on signaling of tyrosine kinases at the surface of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), as well as in the lumen of this organelle. I will discuss how tyrosine kinase signaling might regulate ER proteostasis and the implication thereof to general cell physiology.

FXR Inhibits Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Induced NLRP3 Inflammasome in Hepatocytes and Ameliorates Liver Injury

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is associated with liver injury and fibrosis, and yet the hepatic factors that regulate ER stress-mediated inflammasome activation remain unknown. Here, we report that farnesoid X receptor (FXR) activation inhibits ER stress-induced NACHT, LRR, and PYD domains-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in hepatocytes. In patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated hepatic failure or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and in mice with liver injury, FXR levels in the liver inversely correlated with the extent of NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Fxr deficiency in mice augmented the ability of ER stress to induce NLRP3 and thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), whereas FXR ligand activation prevented it, ameliorating liver injury. FXR attenuates CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP)-dependent NLRP3 overexpression by inhibiting ER stress-mediated protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) activation. Our findings implicate miR-186 and its target, non-catalytic region of tyrosine kinase adaptor protein 1 (NCK1), in mediating the inhibition of ER stress by FXR. This study provides the insights on how FXR regulation of ER stress ameliorates hepatocyte death and liver injury and on the molecular basis of NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Peptide-based sequestration of the adaptor protein Nck1 in pancreatic β cells enhances insulin biogenesis and protects against diabetogenic stresses

One feature of diabetes is the failure of pancreatic β cells to produce insulin, but the molecular mechanisms leading to this failure remain unclear. Increasing evidence supports a role for protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) in the development and function of healthy pancreatic β cells. Previously, our group identified the adaptor protein Nck1 as a negative regulator of PERK. Indeed, we demonstrated that Nck1, by directly binding PERK autophosphorylated on Tyr⁵⁶¹, limits PERK activation and signaling. Accordingly, we found that stable depletion of Nck1 in β cells promotes PERK activation and signaling, increases insulin biosynthesis, and improves cell viability in response to diabetes-related stresses. Herein, we explored the therapeutic potential of abrogating the interaction between Nck and PERK to improve β-cell function and survival. To do so, we designed and used a peptide containing the minimal PERK sequence involved in binding Nck1 conjugated to the cell-permeable protein transduction domain from the HIV protein TAT. In the current study, we confirm that the synthetic TAT-Tyr(P)⁵⁶¹ phosphopeptide specifically binds the SH2 domain of Nck and prevents Nck interaction with PERK, thereby promoting basal PERK activation. Moreover, we report that treatment of β cells with TAT-Tyr(P)⁵⁶¹ inhibits glucolipotoxicity-induced apoptosis, whereas it enhances insulin production and secretion. Taken together, our results support the potential of sequestering Nck using a synthetic peptide to enhance basal PERK activation and create more robust β cells.

PERK signalling pathway mediates single prolonged stress-induced dysfunction of medial prefrontal cortex neurons

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized with abnormal learning and memory. Impairments in learning and memory are closely associated with apoptosis in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). We previously examined the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was involved in the apoptosis in the mPFC of PTSD. The PERK pathway plays the important role in the ER stress-induced apoptosis. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of PERK pathway in neuronal apoptosis in the mPFC of rat models of PTSD. We used the single prolonged stress (SPS) to mimic PTSD in rats and studied the effects of the PERK pathway in mPFC. Learning and memory behavior were examined by Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests. Apoptosis in mPFC was detected by TUNEL staining. Our results showed decreased learning memory and increased apoptosis of mPFC neurons in rats exposed to SPS. SPS exposure upregulate mRNA expressions of PERK, p-PERK, eIF2α, p-eIF2α, nuclear ATF4 and C/EBP-homologous protein (CHOP) in mPFC neurons, but the protein levels of these molecules showed difference in magnitude and time course. GSK2606414 (an antagonist of PERK) treatment successfully reversed the above changes. These results suggested that the PERK pathway mediated SPS-induced neural apoptosis in the mPFC. These findings will be helpful in understanding mPFC-related pathogenesis of PTSD.

Coordination of stress, Ca2+, and immunogenic signaling pathways by PERK at the endoplasmic reticulum

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the main coordinator of intracellular Ca2+ signaling, protein synthesis, and folding. The ER is also implicated in the formation of contact sites with other organelles and structures, including mitochondria, plasma membrane (PM), and endosomes, thereby orchestrating through interorganelle signaling pathways, a variety of cellular responses including Ca2+ homeostasis, metabolism, and cell death signaling. Upon loss of its folding capacity, incited by a number of stress signals including those elicited by various anticancer therapies, the unfolded protein response (UPR) is launched to restore ER homeostasis. The ER stress sensor protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK) is a key mediator of the UPR and its role during ER stress has been largely recognized. However, growing evidence suggests that PERK may govern signaling pathways through UPR-independent functions. Here, we discuss emerging noncanonical roles of PERK with particular relevance for the induction of danger or immunogenic signaling and interorganelle communication.

Nck2, an unexpected regulator of adipogenesis

The regulation of adipose tissue expansion by adipocyte hypertrophy and/or hyperplasia is the topic of extensive investigations given the potential differential contribution of the 2 processes to the development of numerous chronic diseases associated with obesity. We recently discovered that the loss-of-function of the Src homology domain-containing protein Nck2 in mice promotes adiposity accompanied with adipocyte hypertrophy and impaired function, and enhanced adipocyte differentiation in vitro. Moreover, in severely-obese human's adipose tissue, we found that Nck2 expression is markedly downregulated. In this commentary, our goal is to expand upon additional findings providing further evidence for a unique Nck2-dependent mechanism regulating adipogenesis. We propose that Nck2 should be further investigated as a regulator of the reliance of white adipose tissue on hyperplasia versus hypertrophy during adipose tissue expansion, and hence, as a potential novel molecular target in obesity.

Unconjugated secondary bile acids activate the unfolded protein response and induce golgi fragmentation via a src-kinase-dependant mechanism

Bile acids are components of gastro-duodenal refluxate and regarded as causative agents in oesophageal disease but the precise mechanisms are unknown. Here we demonstrate that a specific subset of physiological bile acids affect the protein secretory pathway by inducing ER stress, activating the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) and causing disassembly of the Golgi apparatus in oesophageal cells. Deoxycholic acid (DCA), Chemodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and Lithocholic acid (LCA) activated the PERK arm of the UPR, via phosphorylation of eIF2α and up-regulation of ATF3, CHOP and BiP/GRP78. UPR activation by these bile acids is mechanistically linked with Golgi fragmentation, as modulating the UPR using a PERK inhibitor (GSK2606414) or salubrinal attenuated bile acid-induced effects on Golgi structure. Furthermore we demonstrate that DCA, CDCA and LA activate Src kinase and that inhibition of this kinase attenuated both bile acid-induced BiP/GRP78 expression and Golgi fragmentation. This study highlights a novel mechanism whereby environmental factors (bile acids) impact important cellular processes regulating cell homeostasis, including the UPR and Golgi structure, which may contribute to cancer progression in the oesophagus.

Nck2 Deficiency in Mice Results in Increased Adiposity Associated With Adipocyte Hypertrophy and Enhanced Adipogenesis

Obesity results from an excessive expansion of white adipose tissue (WAT) from hypertrophy of preexisting adipocytes and enhancement of precursor differentiation into mature adipocytes. We report that Nck2-deficient mice display progressive increased adiposity associated with adipocyte hypertrophy. A negative relationship between the expression of Nck2 and WAT expansion was recapitulated in humans such that reduced Nck2 protein and mRNA levels in human visceral WAT significantly correlate with the degree of obesity. Accordingly, Nck2 deficiency promotes an adipogenic program that not only enhances adipocyte differentiation and lipid droplet formation but also results in dysfunctional elevated lipogenesis and lipolysis activities in mouse WAT as well as in stromal vascular fraction and 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. We provide strong evidence to support that through a mechanism involving primed PERK activation and signaling, Nck2 deficiency in adipocyte precursors is associated with enhanced adipogenesis in vitro and adiposity in vivo. Finally, in agreement with elevated circulating lipids, Nck2-deficient mice develop glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, and hepatic steatosis. Taken together, these findings reveal that Nck2 is a novel regulator of adiposity and suggest that Nck2 is important in limiting WAT expansion and dysfunction in mice and humans.

Calcineurin β protects brain after injury by activating the unfolded protein response

The Ca²⁺-dependent phosphatase, calcineurin (CN) is thought to play a detrimental role in damaged neurons; however, its role in astrocytes is unclear. In cultured astrocytes, CNβ expression increased after treatment with a sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase inhibitor, thapsigargin, and with oxygen and glucose deprivation, an in vitro model of ischemia. Similarly, CNβ was induced in astrocytes in vivo in two different mouse models of brain injury - photothrombotic stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Immunoprecipitation and chemical activation dimerization methods pointed to physical interaction of CNβ with the unfolded protein response (UPR) sensor, protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK). In accordance, induction of CNβ resulted in oligomerization and activation of PERK. Strikingly, the presence of a phosphatase inhibitor did not interfere with CNβ-mediated activation of PERK, suggesting a hitherto undiscovered non-enzymatic role for CNβ. Importantly, the cytoprotective function of CNβ was PERK-dependent both in vitro and in vivo. Loss of CNβ in vivo resulted in a significant increase in cerebral damage, and correlated with a decrease in astrocyte size, PERK activity and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression. Taken together, these data reveal a critical role for the CNβ-PERK axis in not only prolonging astrocyte cell survival but also in modulating astrogliosis after brain injury.

mTORC1 and CK2 coordinate ternary and eIF4F complex assembly

Ternary complex (TC) and eIF4F complex assembly are the two major rate-limiting steps in translation initiation regulated by eIF2α phosphorylation and the mTOR/4E-BP pathway, respectively. How TC and eIF4F assembly are coordinated, however, remains largely unknown. We show that mTOR suppresses translation of mRNAs activated under short-term stress wherein TC recycling is attenuated by eIF2α phosphorylation. During acute nutrient or growth factor stimulation, mTORC1 induces eIF2β phosphorylation and recruitment of NCK1 to eIF2, decreases eIF2α phosphorylation and bolsters TC recycling. Accordingly, eIF2β mediates the effect of mTORC1 on protein synthesis and proliferation. In addition, we demonstrate a formerly undocumented role for CK2 in regulation of translation initiation, whereby CK2 stimulates phosphorylation of eIF2β and simultaneously bolsters eIF4F complex assembly via the mTORC1/4E-BP pathway. These findings imply a previously unrecognized mode of translation regulation, whereby mTORC1 and CK2 coordinate TC and eIF4F complex assembly to stimulate cell proliferation.

Ternary complex (TC) and eIF4F complex assembly are rate-limiting steps in translation initiation that are regulated by eIF2α phosphorylation and the mTOR/4E-BP pathway. Here the authors show that the protein kinases mTORC1 and CK2 coordinate TC and eIF4F complex assembly through eIF2β to stimulate cell proliferation.

Proinsulin and heat shock protein 90 as biomarkers of beta-cell stress in the early period after onset of type 1 diabetes

Rapid evaluation of therapies designed to preserve β cells in persons with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is hampered by limited availability of sensitive β-cell health biomarkers. In particular, biomarkers elucidating the presence and degree of β-cell stress are needed. We characterized β-cell secretory activity and stress in 29 new-onset T1D subjects (10.6 ± 3.0 years, 55% male) at diagnosis and then 8.2 ± 1.2 weeks later at first clinic follow-up. We did comparisons with 16 matched healthy controls. We evaluated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), β-cell function (random C-peptide [C] and proinsulin [PI]), β-cell stress (PI:C ratio), and the β-cell stress marker heat shock protein (HSP)90 and examined these parameters' relationships with clinical and laboratory characteristics at diagnosis. Mean diagnosis HbA1c was 11.3% (100 mmol/mol) and 7.6% (60 mmol/mol) at follow-up. C-peptide was low at diagnosis (P < 0.001 vs controls) and increased at follow-up (P < 0.001) to comparable with controls. PI did not differ from controls at diagnosis but increased at follow-up (P = 0.003) signifying increased release of PI alongside improved insulin secretion. PI:C ratios and HSP90 concentrations were elevated at both time points. Younger subjects had lower C-peptide and greater PI, PI:C, and HSP90. We also examined islets isolated from prediabetic nonobese diabetic mice and found that HSP90 levels were increased ∼4-fold compared with those in islets isolated from matched CD1 controls, further substantiating HSP90 as a marker of β-cell stress in T1D. Our data indicate that β-cell stress can be assessed using PI:C and HSP90. This stress persists after T1D diagnosis. Therapeutic approaches to reduce β-cell stress in new-onset T1D should be considered.

Mcl-1 downregulation leads to the heightened sensitivity exhibited by BCR-ABL positive ALL to induction of energy and ER-stress

BCR-ABL positive (+) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) accounts for ∼30% of cases of ALL. We recently demonstrated that 2-deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG), a dual energy (glycolysis inhibition) and ER-stress (N-linked-glycosylation inhibition) inducer, leads to cell death in ALL via ER-stress/UPR-mediated apoptosis. Among ALL subtypes, BCR-ABL+ ALL cells exhibited the highest sensitivity to 2-DG suggesting BCR-ABL expression may be linked to this increased vulnerability. To confirm the role of BCR-ABL, we constructed a NALM6/BCR-ABL stable cell line and found significant increase in 2-DG-induced apoptosis compared to control. We found that Mcl-1 was downregulated by agents inducing ER-stress and Mcl-1 levels correlated with ALL sensitivity. In addition, we showed that Mcl-1 expression is positively regulated by the MEK/ERK pathway, dependent on BCR-ABL, and further downregulated by combining ER-stressors with TKIs. We determined that energy/ER stressors led to translational repression of Mcl-1 via the AMPK/mTOR and UPR/PERK/eIF2α pathways. Taken together, our data indicate that BCR-ABL+ ALL exhibits heightened sensitivity to induction of energy and ER-stress through inhibition of the MEK/ERK pathway, and translational repression of Mcl-1 expression via AMPK/mTOR and UPR/PERK/eIF2α pathways. This study supports further consideration of strategies combining energy/ER-stress inducers with BCR-ABL TKIs for future clinical translation in BCR-ABL+ ALL patients.

Roles of the translation initiation factor eIF2α serine 51 phosphorylation in cancer formation and treatment

Cells respond to various forms of stress by activating anti-proliferative pathways, which allow them to correct the damage caused by stress before re-entering proliferation. If the damage, however, is beyond repair, stressed cells are eliminated from the host by undergoing death. The balance between cell survival and death is essential for cancer formation and is determined by several key pathways that impact on different stages of gene expression. In recent years, it has become evident that phosphorylation of the alpha (α) subunit of the translation initiation factor eIF2 at serine 51 (eIF2αS51P) is an important determinant of cell fate in response to stress. Induction of eIF2αS51P is mediated by a family of four kinases namely, HRI, PKR, PERK and GCN2, each of which responds to distinct forms of stress. Increased eIF2αS51P results in a global inhibition of protein synthesis but at the same time enhances the translation of select mRNAs encoding for proteins that control cell adaptation to stress. Short-term induction of eIF2αS51P has been associated with cell survival whereas long-term induction with cell death. Studies in mouse and human models of cancer have provided compelling evidence that eIF2αS51P plays an essential role in stress-induced tumorigenesis. Increased eIF2αS51P exhibits cell autonomous as well as immune regulatory effects, which can influence tumor growth and the efficacy of anti-tumor therapies. The findings suggest that eIF2αS51P may be of prognostic value and a suitable target for the design and implementation of effective anti-tumor therapies. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Translation and Cancer.

Nck1 depletion induces activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway by attenuating PTP1B protein expression

Background

Activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway mediates crucial cellular functions regulated by receptor tyrosine kinases, such as cell growth, proliferation, survival and metabolism. Previously, we reported that the whole-body knockout of the Src homology domain-containing adaptor protein Nck1 improves overall glucose homeostasis and insulin-induced activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway in liver of obese mice. The aim of the current study is to elucidate the mechanism by which Nck1 depletion regulates hepatic insulin signaling.

Results

Here, we demonstrate that Nck1 regulates the activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway in a protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B)-dependent mechanism. Indeed, depletion of Nck1 by siRNA in HepG2 cells enhances PI3K-dependent basal and growth factor-induced Akt activation. In accordance, primary hepatocytes isolated from Nck1^−/− mice also display enhanced Akt activation in response to insulin. Activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway in Nck1-depleted HepG2 cells relies on higher levels of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins and correlates with decreased PTP1B levels. Interestingly, Nck1 and PTP1B in cells are found in a common molecular complex and their interaction is dependent on the SH3 domains of Nck1. Finally, Nck1 depletion in HepG2 cells neither affects PTP1B gene transcription nor PTP1B protein stability, suggesting that Nck1 modulates PTP1B expression at the translational level.

Conclusion

Our study provides strong evidence supporting that the adaptor protein Nck1 interacts with PTP1B and also regulates PTP1B expression. In this manner, Nck1 plays a role in regulating the PI3K/Akt pathway.

Robust Endoplasmic Reticulum-Associated Degradation of Rhodopsin Precedes Retinal Degeneration

Rhodopsin is a G protein-coupled receptor essential for vision and rod photoreceptor viability. Disease-associated rhodopsin mutations, such as P23H rhodopsin, cause rhodopsin protein misfolding and trigger endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, activating the unfolded protein response (UPR). The pathophysiologic effects of ER stress and UPR activation on photoreceptors are unclear. Here, by examining P23H rhodopsin knock-in mice, we found that the UPR inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) signaling pathway is strongly activated in misfolded rhodopsin-expressing photoreceptors. IRE1 significantly upregulated ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD), triggering pronounced P23H rhodopsin degradation. Rhodopsin protein loss occurred as soon as photoreceptors developed, preceding photoreceptor cell death. By contrast, IRE1 activation did not affect JNK signaling or rhodopsin mRNA levels. Interestingly, pro-apoptotic signaling from the PERK UPR pathway was also not induced. Our findings reveal that an early and significant pathophysiologic effect of ER stress in photoreceptors is the highly efficient elimination of misfolded rhodopsin protein. We propose that early disruption of rhodopsin protein homeostasis in photoreceptors could contribute to retinal degeneration.

Cellular Mechanisms of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Signaling in Health and Disease. 1. An overview

Increased demand on the protein folding capacity of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) engages an adaptive reaction known as the unfolded protein response (UPR). The UPR regulates protein translation and the expression of numerous target genes that contribute to restore ER homeostasis or induce apoptosis of irreversibly damaged cells. UPR signaling is highly regulated and dynamic and integrates information about the type, intensity, and duration of the stress stimuli, thereby determining cell fate. Recent advances highlight novel physiological outcomes of the UPR beyond specialized secretory cells, particularly in innate immunity, metabolism, and cell differentiation. Here we discuss studies on the fine-tuning of the UPR and its physiological role in diverse organs and diseases.

Cellular mechanisms of endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling in health and disease. 3. Orchestrating the unfolded protein response in oncogenesis: an update

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-induced unfolded protein response (UPR) is an adaptive mechanism that is activated upon accumulation of misfolded proteins in the ER and aims at restoring ER homeostasis. In the past 10 years, the UPR has emerged as an important actor in the different phases of tumor growth. The UPR is transduced by three major ER resident stress sensors, which are protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), and inositol-requiring enzyme-1 (IRE1). The signaling pathways elicited by those stress sensors have connections with metabolic pathways and with other plasma membrane receptor signaling networks. As such, the ER has an essential position as a signal integrator in the cell and is instrumental in the different phases of tumor progression. Herein, we describe and discuss the characteristics of an integrated signaling network that might condition the UPR biological outputs in a tissue- or stress-dependent manner. We discuss these issues in the context of the pathophysiological roles of UPR signaling in cancers.