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Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Biochemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2021) | Viewed by 68960

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Jose Maria Gonzalez-Granado

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
LamImSys Lab. Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
Interests: lamin A/C; T cell; dendritic cell; inflammatory bowel disease; melanoma; pathogen infections; immunology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Intermediate filaments (IFs) are part of the cellular cytoskeleton and nucleoskeleton. They participate in the connection between the cell membrane and the nuclear interior with actin filaments, microtubules, and the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex. IFs are responsible for the critical structural integrity of cells and tissues and regulate several important cellular processes including cell migration and adhesion, apoptosis, proliferation, differentiation, autophagy, signaling, gene expression, vesicle trafficking, mitochondrial function, and cell fate determination. Although IFs are expressed in most cells, their expression is dynamic and subject to fine regulation involving post-translational modifications and intracellular proteolysis. Mutation in IF genes results in a wide range of human diseases; these filaments play important roles in the context of cancer, inflammation and other immune diseases, muscular syndromes, progeria, lipodystrophies, and digestive diseases.In this Special Issue, we invite investigators to submit original research or review articles on the many facets of intermediate filament and on recent insights in this field.Topics include but are not limited to the following: 

  • IF and mechanobiology
  • IF modifications and regulation
  • IF in nuclear function
  • IF in signaling
  • IF in digestive biology and diseases.
  • IF in immunology and inflammation
  • IF in cancer
  • IF in laminopathies
  • IF in muscular diseases

Dr. Jose Maria Gonzalez-Granado
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. There is an Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal. For details about the APC please see here. Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • intermediate filaments
  • lamins
  • keratins
  • vimentin
  • nestin
  • mechanics
  • migration
  • signaling
  • transcription
  • vesicle trafficking
  • mitochondrial function
  • inflammation
  • cancer
  • digestive diseases

Published Papers (20 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

5 pages, 197 KiB  
Editorial
Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments—Volume 1
by Angela Saez and Jose M. Gonzalez-Granado
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(10), 5308; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23105308 - 10 May 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1272
Abstract
We would like to make readers of the second edition of the Special Issue from the International Journal of Molecular Sciences on the Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments aware of the content of the first edition on this same topic [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

24 pages, 11507 KiB  
Article
Immunohistochemical Changes in the Testicular Excurrent Duct System of Healthy, Male Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) Observed at 4, 6–7, 12, and 52 Weeks of Age
by Mohammed I. A. Ibrahim, June H. Williams and Christo J. Botha
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(22), 14028; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms232214028 - 14 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1349
Abstract
The immunolocalization of the cytoskeletal and the extracellular matrix proteins was investigated in the testicular excurrent duct system of healthy Japanese quail at 4, 6–7, 12 and 52 weeks of age. TdT dUTP Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) assay was used to assess apoptotic [...] Read more.
The immunolocalization of the cytoskeletal and the extracellular matrix proteins was investigated in the testicular excurrent duct system of healthy Japanese quail at 4, 6–7, 12 and 52 weeks of age. TdT dUTP Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) assay was used to assess apoptotic cell formation. The epithelia of the testicular excurrent duct system in birds of all age groups displayed various immunolabeling intensities and localization of cytokeratin 5 and beta-tubulin, while α-SMA was observed in epithelia only of 4-week-old birds. In all age groups, vimentin immunostaining was observed in the rete testes and efferent ductular epithelia, but not in the epididymal duct unit. The periductal smooth muscle cells of the excurrent duct system displayed variably intense immunopositivity with cytokeratin 5, desmin, fibronectin, α-SMA, and beta-tubulin. Furthermore, beta-tubulin and vimentin immunolabeled endothelial cells and fibroblasts with various intensities, while fibronectin immunostained extracellular matrices surrounding these cells. TUNEL-positive apoptotic cells were observed in the rete testes and efferent ductular epithelia, with increased frequency (p < 0.001) in 52-week-old birds. The study serves as a baseline normal for this region in healthy birds at 4, 6–7, 12, and 52 weeks of age, for comparison in future similar immunohistochemical studies involving environmental toxins affecting this region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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18 pages, 4426 KiB  
Article
Impaired LEF1 Activation Accelerates iPSC-Derived Keratinocytes Differentiation in Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome
by Xiaojing Mao, Zheng-Mei Xiong, Huijing Xue, Markus A. Brown, Yantenew G. Gete, Reynold Yu, Linlin Sun and Kan Cao
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(10), 5499; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23105499 - 14 May 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2503
Abstract
Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a detrimental premature aging disease caused by a point mutation in the human LMNA gene. This mutation results in the abnormal accumulation of a truncated pre-lamin A protein called progerin. Among the drastically accelerated signs of aging in [...] Read more.
Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a detrimental premature aging disease caused by a point mutation in the human LMNA gene. This mutation results in the abnormal accumulation of a truncated pre-lamin A protein called progerin. Among the drastically accelerated signs of aging in HGPS patients, severe skin phenotypes such as alopecia and sclerotic skins always develop with the disease progression. Here, we studied the HGPS molecular mechanisms focusing on early skin development by differentiating patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to a keratinocyte lineage. Interestingly, HGPS iPSCs showed an accelerated commitment to the keratinocyte lineage than the normal control. To study potential signaling pathways that accelerated skin development in HGPS, we investigated the WNT pathway components during HGPS iPSCs-keratinocytes induction. Surprisingly, despite the unaffected β-catenin activity, the expression of a critical WNT transcription factor LEF1 was diminished from an early stage in HGPS iPSCs-keratinocytes differentiation. A chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiment further revealed strong bindings of LEF1 to the early-stage epithelial developmental markers K8 and K18 and that the LEF1 silencing by siRNA down-regulates the K8/K18 transcription. During the iPSCs-keratinocytes differentiation, correction of HGPS mutation by Adenine base editing (ABE), while in a partial level, rescued the phenotypes for accelerated keratinocyte lineage-commitment. ABE also reduced the cell death in HGPS iPSCs-derived keratinocytes. These findings brought new insight into the molecular basis and therapeutic application for the skin abnormalities in HGPS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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18 pages, 2799 KiB  
Article
Metastasising Fibroblasts Show an HDAC6-Dependent Increase in Migration Speed and Loss of Directionality Linked to Major Changes in the Vimentin Interactome
by Caroline A. Evans, Hyejeong Rosemary Kim, Sarah C. Macfarlane, Poppy I. A. Nowicki, Carsten Baltes, Lei Xu, Jerker Widengren, Franziska Lautenschläger, Bernard M. Corfe and Annica K. B. Gad
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(4), 1961; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23041961 - 10 Feb 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2382
Abstract
Metastasising cells express the intermediate filament protein vimentin, which is used to diagnose invasive tumours in the clinic. We aimed to clarify how vimentin regulates the motility of metastasising fibroblasts. STED super-resolution microscopy, live-cell imaging and quantitative proteomics revealed that oncogene-expressing and metastasising [...] Read more.
Metastasising cells express the intermediate filament protein vimentin, which is used to diagnose invasive tumours in the clinic. We aimed to clarify how vimentin regulates the motility of metastasising fibroblasts. STED super-resolution microscopy, live-cell imaging and quantitative proteomics revealed that oncogene-expressing and metastasising fibroblasts show a less-elongated cell shape, reduced cell spreading, increased cell migration speed, reduced directionality, and stronger coupling between these migration parameters compared to normal control cells. In total, we identified and compared 555 proteins in the vimentin interactome. In metastasising cells, the levels of keratin 18 and Rab5C were increased, while those of actin and collagen were decreased. Inhibition of HDAC6 reversed the shape, spreading and migration phenotypes of metastasising cells back to normal. Inhibition of HDAC6 also decreased the levels of talin 1, tropomyosin, Rab GDI β, collagen and emilin 1 in the vimentin interactome, and partially reversed the nanoscale vimentin organisation in oncogene-expressing cells. These findings describe the changes in the vimentin interactome and nanoscale distribution that accompany the defective cell shape, spreading and migration of metastasising cells. These results support the hypothesis that oncogenes can act through HDAC6 to regulate the vimentin binding of the cytoskeletal and cell–extracellular matrix adhesion components that contribute to the defective motility of metastasising cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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20 pages, 5254 KiB  
Article
Super-Resolution Imaging of the A- and B-Type Lamin Networks: A Comparative Study of Different Fluorescence Labeling Procedures
by Merel Stiekema, Frans C. S. Ramaekers, Dimitrios Kapsokalyvas, Marc A. M. J. van Zandvoort, Rogier J. A. Veltrop and Jos L. V. Broers
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(19), 10194; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms221910194 - 22 Sep 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2390
Abstract
A- and B-type lamins are type V intermediate filament proteins. Mutations in the genes encoding these lamins cause rare diseases, collectively called laminopathies. A fraction of the cells obtained from laminopathy patients show aberrations in the localization of each lamin subtype, which may [...] Read more.
A- and B-type lamins are type V intermediate filament proteins. Mutations in the genes encoding these lamins cause rare diseases, collectively called laminopathies. A fraction of the cells obtained from laminopathy patients show aberrations in the localization of each lamin subtype, which may represent only the minority of the lamina disorganization. To get a better insight into more delicate and more abundant lamina abnormalities, the lamin network can be studied using super-resolution microscopy. We compared confocal scanning laser microscopy and stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy in combination with different fluorescence labeling approaches for the study of the lamin network. We demonstrate the suitability of an immunofluorescence staining approach when using STED microscopy, by determining the lamin layer thickness and the degree of lamin A and B1 colocalization as detected in fixed fibroblasts (co-)stained with lamin antibodies or (co-)transfected with EGFP/YFP lamin constructs. This revealed that immunofluorescence staining of cells does not lead to consequent changes in the detected lamin layer thickness, nor does it influence the degree of colocalization of lamin A and B1, when compared to the transfection approach. Studying laminopathy patient dermal fibroblasts (LMNA c.1130G>T (p.(Arg377Leu)) variant) confirmed the suitability of immunofluorescence protocols in STED microscopy, which circumvents the need for less convenient transfection steps. Furthermore, we found a significant decrease in lamin A/C and B1 colocalization in these patient fibroblasts, compared to normal human dermal fibroblasts. We conclude that super-resolution light microscopy combined with immunofluorescence protocols provides a potential tool to detect structural lamina differences between normal and laminopathy patient fibroblasts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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16 pages, 8862 KiB  
Article
Keratin 7 Is a Constituent of the Keratin Network in Mouse Pancreatic Islets and Is Upregulated in Experimental Diabetes
by Catharina M. Alam, Sarah Baghestani, Ada Pajari, M. Bishr Omary and Diana M. Toivola
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(15), 7784; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22157784 - 21 Jul 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2285
Abstract
Keratin (K) 7 is an intermediate filament protein expressed in ducts and glands of simple epithelial organs and in urothelial tissues. In the pancreas, K7 is expressed in exocrine ducts, and apico-laterally in acinar cells. Here, we report K7 expression with K8 and [...] Read more.
Keratin (K) 7 is an intermediate filament protein expressed in ducts and glands of simple epithelial organs and in urothelial tissues. In the pancreas, K7 is expressed in exocrine ducts, and apico-laterally in acinar cells. Here, we report K7 expression with K8 and K18 in the endocrine islets of Langerhans in mice. K7 filament formation in islet and MIN6 β-cells is dependent on the presence and levels of K18. K18-knockout (K18‒/‒) mice have undetectable islet K7 and K8 proteins, while K7 and K18 are downregulated in K8‒/‒ islets. K7, akin to F-actin, is concentrated at the apical vertex of β-cells in wild-type mice and along the lateral membrane, in addition to forming a fine cytoplasmic network. In K8‒/‒ β-cells, apical K7 remains, but lateral keratin bundles are displaced and cytoplasmic filaments are scarce. Islet K7, rather than K8, is increased in K18 over-expressing mice and the K18-R90C mutation disrupts K7 filaments in mouse β-cells and in MIN6 cells. Notably, islet K7 filament networks significantly increase and expand in the perinuclear regions when examined in the streptozotocin diabetes model. Hence, K7 represents a significant component of the murine islet keratin network and becomes markedly upregulated during experimental diabetes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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15 pages, 3556 KiB  
Article
Role of Extracellular Vimentin in Cancer-Cell Functionality and Its Influence on Cell Monolayer Permeability Changes Induced by SARS-CoV-2 Receptor Binding Domain
by Divyendu Goud Thalla, Philipp Jung, Markus Bischoff and Franziska Lautenschläger
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(14), 7469; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22147469 - 12 Jul 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4222
Abstract
The cytoskeletal protein vimentin is secreted under various physiological conditions. Extracellular vimentin exists primarily in two forms: attached to the outer cell surface and secreted into the extracellular space. While surface vimentin is involved in processes such as viral infections and cancer progression, [...] Read more.
The cytoskeletal protein vimentin is secreted under various physiological conditions. Extracellular vimentin exists primarily in two forms: attached to the outer cell surface and secreted into the extracellular space. While surface vimentin is involved in processes such as viral infections and cancer progression, secreted vimentin modulates inflammation through reduction of neutrophil infiltration, promotes bacterial elimination in activated macrophages, and supports axonal growth in astrocytes through activation of the IGF-1 receptor. This receptor is overexpressed in cancer cells, and its activation pathway has significant roles in general cellular functions. In this study, we investigated the functional role of extracellular vimentin in non-tumorigenic (MCF-10a) and cancer (MCF-7) cells through the evaluation of its effects on cell migration, proliferation, adhesion, and monolayer permeability. Upon treatment with extracellular recombinant vimentin, MCF-7 cells showed increased migration, proliferation, and adhesion, compared to MCF-10a cells. Further, MCF-7 monolayers showed reduced permeability, compared to MCF-10a monolayers. It has been shown that the receptor binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can alter blood–brain barrier integrity. Surface vimentin also acts as a co-receptor between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and the cell-surface angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor. Therefore, we also investigated the permeability of MCF-10a and MCF-7 monolayers upon treatment with extracellular recombinant vimentin, and its modulation of the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain. These findings show that binding of extracellular recombinant vimentin to the cell surface enhances the permeability of both MCF-10a and MCF-7 monolayers. However, with SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain addition, this effect is lost with MCF-7 monolayers, as the extracellular vimentin binds directly to the viral domain. This defines an influence of extracellular vimentin in SARS-CoV-2 infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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24 pages, 22586 KiB  
Article
Hemidesmosome-Related Keratin Filament Bundling and Nucleation
by Marcin Moch and Rudolf E. Leube
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(4), 2130; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22042130 - 21 Feb 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3450
Abstract
The epithelial cytoskeleton encompasses actin filaments, microtubules, and keratin intermediate filaments. They are interconnected and attached to the extracellular matrix via focal adhesions and hemidesmosomes. To study their interplay, we inhibited actin and tubulin polymerization in the human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT by [...] Read more.
The epithelial cytoskeleton encompasses actin filaments, microtubules, and keratin intermediate filaments. They are interconnected and attached to the extracellular matrix via focal adhesions and hemidesmosomes. To study their interplay, we inhibited actin and tubulin polymerization in the human keratinocyte cell line HaCaT by latrunculin B and nocodazole, respectively. Using immunocytochemistry and time-lapse imaging of living cells, we found that inhibition of actin and tubulin polymerization alone or in combination induced keratin network re-organization albeit differently in each situation. Keratin filament network retraction towards the nucleus and formation of bundled and radial keratin filaments was most pronounced in latrunculin-B treated cells but less in doubly-treated cells and not detectable in the presence of nocodazole alone. Hemidesmosomal keratin filament anchorage was maintained in each instance, whereas focal adhesions were disassembled in the absence of actin filaments. Simultaneous inhibition of actin and tubulin polymerization, therefore, allowed us to dissect hemidesmosome-specific functions for keratin network properties. These included not only anchorage of keratin filament bundles but also nucleation of keratin filaments, which was also observed in migrating cells. The findings highlight the fundamental role of hemidesmosomal adhesion for keratin network formation and organization independent of other cytoskeletal filaments pointing to a unique mechanobiological function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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20 pages, 3447 KiB  
Article
Identification of a Novel Link between the Intermediate Filament Organizer IFO-1 and Cholesterol Metabolism in the Caenorhabditis elegans Intestine
by Richard A. Coch, Florian Geisler, Andrea Annibal, Adam Antebi and Rudolf E. Leube
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(21), 8219; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21218219 - 03 Nov 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2633
Abstract
The intestine is an organ essential to organismal nutrient absorption, metabolic control, barrier function and immunoprotection. The Caenorhabditis elegans intestine consists of 20 cells harboring a dense intermediate filament network positioned below the apical plasma membrane that forms a junction-anchored sheath around the [...] Read more.
The intestine is an organ essential to organismal nutrient absorption, metabolic control, barrier function and immunoprotection. The Caenorhabditis elegans intestine consists of 20 cells harboring a dense intermediate filament network positioned below the apical plasma membrane that forms a junction-anchored sheath around the intestinal lumen. This evolutionarily conserved arrangement provides mechanical and overall stress-protection, and it serves as an important model for deciphering the role of intestinal architecture in metazoan biology. We recently reported that the loss-of-function mutation of the intestinal intermediate filament organizer IFO-1 perturbs this architecture, leading to reduced body size and reproduction. Here, we demonstrate that the IFO-1 mutation dramatically affects cholesterol metabolism. Mutants showed an increased sensitivity to cholesterol depletion, reduced cholesterol uptake, and cholesterol transfer to the gonads, which is also observed in worms completely lacking an intermediate filament network. Accordingly, we found striking similarities to transcriptome and lipidome profiles of a nuclear hormone receptor (NHR)-8 mutant. NHR-8 is homologous to mammalian LXR (liver X receptor) that serves as a sterol sensor and transcriptional regulator of lipid metabolism. Remarkably, increasing exogenous cholesterol partially rescues the developmental retardation in IFO-1 mutants. Our results uncover a novel link of the intestinal intermediate filament cytoskeleton to cholesterol metabolism that contributes to compromised growth and reproduction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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9 pages, 2202 KiB  
Article
Desmin Interacts Directly with Mitochondria
by Alexander A. Dayal, Natalia V. Medvedeva, Tatiana M. Nekrasova, Sergey D. Duhalin, Alexey K. Surin and Alexander A. Minin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(21), 8122; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21218122 - 30 Oct 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2104
Abstract
Desmin intermediate filaments (IFs) play an important role in maintaining the structural and functional integrity of muscle cells. They connect contractile myofibrils to plasma membrane, nuclei, and mitochondria. Disturbance of their network due to desmin mutations or deficiency leads to an infringement of [...] Read more.
Desmin intermediate filaments (IFs) play an important role in maintaining the structural and functional integrity of muscle cells. They connect contractile myofibrils to plasma membrane, nuclei, and mitochondria. Disturbance of their network due to desmin mutations or deficiency leads to an infringement of myofibril organization and to a deterioration of mitochondrial distribution, morphology, and functions. The nature of the interaction of desmin IFs with mitochondria is not clear. To elucidate the possibility that desmin can directly bind to mitochondria, we have undertaken the study of their interaction in vitro. Using desmin mutant Des(Y122L) that forms unit-length filaments (ULFs) but is incapable of forming long filaments and, therefore, could be effectively separated from mitochondria by centrifugation through sucrose gradient, we probed the interaction of recombinant human desmin with mitochondria isolated from rat liver. Our data show that desmin can directly bind to mitochondria, and this binding depends on its N-terminal domain. We have found that mitochondrial cysteine protease can disrupt this interaction by cleavage of desmin at its N-terminus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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16 pages, 5014 KiB  
Article
Unidirectional Regulation of Vimentin Intermediate Filaments to Caveolin-1
by Xuemeng Shi, Changyuan Fan and Yaming Jiu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(20), 7436; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21207436 - 09 Oct 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3285
Abstract
Both the mechanosensitive vimentin cytoskeleton and endocytic caveolae contribute to various active processes such as cell migration, morphogenesis, and stress response. However, the crosstalk between these two systems has remained elusive. Here, we find that the subcellular expression between vimentin and caveolin-1 is [...] Read more.
Both the mechanosensitive vimentin cytoskeleton and endocytic caveolae contribute to various active processes such as cell migration, morphogenesis, and stress response. However, the crosstalk between these two systems has remained elusive. Here, we find that the subcellular expression between vimentin and caveolin-1 is mutual exclusive, and vimentin filaments physically arrest the cytoplasmic motility of caveolin-1 vesicles. Importantly, vimentin depletion increases the phosphorylation of caveolin-1 on site Tyr14, and restores the compromised cell migration rate and directionality caused by caveolin-1 deprivation. Moreover, upon hypo-osmotic shock, vimentin-knockout recovers the reduced intracellular motility of caveolin-1 vesicles. In contrary, caveolin-1 depletion shows no effect on the expression, phosphorylation (on sites Ser39, Ser56, and Ser83), distribution, solubility, and cellular dynamics of vimentin filaments. Taken together, our data reveals a unidirectional regulation of vimentin to caveolin-1, at least on the cellular level. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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16 pages, 3172 KiB  
Article
c-Abl Tyrosine Kinase Is Regulated Downstream of the Cytoskeletal Protein Synemin in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Radioresistance and DNA Repair
by Sara Sofia Deville, Luis Fernando Delgadillo Silva, Anne Vehlow and Nils Cordes
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(19), 7277; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21197277 - 01 Oct 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4813
Abstract
The intermediate filament synemin has been previously identified as novel regulator of cancer cell therapy resistance and DNA double strand break (DSB) repair. c-Abl tyrosine kinase is involved in both of these processes. Using PamGene technology, we performed a broad-spectrum kinase activity profiling [...] Read more.
The intermediate filament synemin has been previously identified as novel regulator of cancer cell therapy resistance and DNA double strand break (DSB) repair. c-Abl tyrosine kinase is involved in both of these processes. Using PamGene technology, we performed a broad-spectrum kinase activity profiling in three-dimensionally, extracellular matrix grown head and neck cancer cell cultures. Upon synemin silencing, we identified 86 deactivated tyrosine kinases, including c-Abl, in irradiated HNSCC cells. Upon irradiation and synemin inhibition, c-Abl hyperphosphorylation on tyrosine (Y) 412 and threonine (T) 735 was significantly reduced, prompting us to hypothesize that c-Abl tyrosine kinase is an important signaling component of the synemin-mediated radioresistance pathway. Simultaneous targeting of synemin and c-Abl resulted in similar radiosensitization and DSB repair compared with single synemin depletion, suggesting synemin as an upstream regulator of c-Abl. Immunoprecipitation assays revealed a protein complex formation between synemin and c-Abl pre- and post-irradiation. Upon pharmacological inhibition of ATM, synemin/c-Abl protein-protein interactions were disrupted implying synemin function to depend on ATM kinase activity. Moreover, deletion of the SH2 domain of c-Abl demonstrated a decrease in interaction, indicating the dependency of the protein-protein interaction on this domain. Mechanistically, radiosensitization upon synemin knockdown seems to be associated with an impairment of DNA repair via regulation of non-homologous end joining independent of c-Abl function. Our data generated in more physiological 3D cancer cell culture models suggest c-Abl as further key determinant of radioresistance downstream of synemin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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11 pages, 1168 KiB  
Article
Withaferin-A Can Be Used to Modulate the Keratin Network of Intermediate Filaments in Human Epidermal Keratinocytes
by Michael C. Keeling and Núria Gavara
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(12), 4450; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21124450 - 23 Jun 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2502
Abstract
The mechanical state of cells is a critical part of their healthy functioning and it is controlled primarily by cytoskeletal networks (actin, microtubules and intermediate filaments). Drug-based strategies targeting the assembly of a given cytoskeletal network are often used to pinpoint their role [...] Read more.
The mechanical state of cells is a critical part of their healthy functioning and it is controlled primarily by cytoskeletal networks (actin, microtubules and intermediate filaments). Drug-based strategies targeting the assembly of a given cytoskeletal network are often used to pinpoint their role in cellular function. Unlike actin and microtubules, there has been limited interest in the role of intermediate filaments, and fewer drugs have thus been identified and characterised as modulators of its assembly. Here, we evaluate whether Withaferin-A (WFA), an established disruptor of vimentin filaments, can also be used to modulate keratin filament assembly. Our results show that in keratinocytes, which are keratin-rich but vimentin-absent, Withaferin-A disrupts keratin filaments. Importantly, the dosages required are similar to those previously reported to disrupt vimentin in other cell types. Furthermore, Withaferin-A-induced keratin disassembly is accompanied by changes in cell stiffness and migration. Therefore, we propose that WFA can be repurposed as a useful drug to disrupt the keratin cytoskeleton in epithelial cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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18 pages, 6223 KiB  
Article
Stable Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 Dimers with High Pro-Survival and Mitogenic Potential
by Daria Nawrocka, Mateusz Adam Krzyscik, Łukasz Opaliński, Malgorzata Zakrzewska and Jacek Otlewski
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(11), 4108; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21114108 - 09 Jun 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3276
Abstract
Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) is a heparin-binding growth factor with broad mitogenic and cell survival activities. Its effector functions are induced upon the formation of 2:2 FGF2:FGFR1 tetrameric complex. To facilitate receptor activation, and therefore, to improve the FGF2 biological properties, we [...] Read more.
Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) is a heparin-binding growth factor with broad mitogenic and cell survival activities. Its effector functions are induced upon the formation of 2:2 FGF2:FGFR1 tetrameric complex. To facilitate receptor activation, and therefore, to improve the FGF2 biological properties, we preorganized dimeric ligand by a covalent linkage of two FGF2 molecules. Mutations of the FGF2 WT protein were designed to obtain variants with a single surface-exposed reactive cysteine for the chemical conjugation via maleimide-thiol reaction with bis-functionalized linear PEG linkers. We developed eight FGF2 dimers of defined topology, differing in mutual orientation of individual FGF2 molecules. The engineered proteins remained functional in terms of FGFR downstream signaling activation and were characterized by the increased stability, mitogenic potential and anti-apoptotic activity, as well as induced greater migration responses in normal fibroblasts, as compared to FGF2 monomer. Importantly, biological activity of the dimers was much less dependent on the external heparin administration. Moreover, some dimeric FGF2 variants internalized more efficiently into FGFR overexpressing cancer cells. In summary, in the current work, we showed that preorganization of dimeric FGF2 ligand increased the stability of the growth factor, and therefore, enhanced its biological activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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19 pages, 8486 KiB  
Article
Zinc Differentially Modulates the Assembly of Soluble and Polymerized Vimentin
by Andreia Mónico, Silvia Zorrilla, Germán Rivas and Dolores Pérez-Sala
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(7), 2426; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21072426 - 31 Mar 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3226
Abstract
The intermediate filament protein vimentin constitutes a critical sensor for electrophilic and oxidative stress. We previously showed that vimentin interacts with zinc, which affects its assembly and redox sensing. Here, we used vimentin wt and C328S, an oxidation-resistant mutant showing improved NaCl-induced polymerization, [...] Read more.
The intermediate filament protein vimentin constitutes a critical sensor for electrophilic and oxidative stress. We previously showed that vimentin interacts with zinc, which affects its assembly and redox sensing. Here, we used vimentin wt and C328S, an oxidation-resistant mutant showing improved NaCl-induced polymerization, to assess the impact of zinc on soluble and polymerized vimentin by light scattering and electron microscopy. Zinc acts as a switch, reversibly inducing the formation of vimentin oligomeric species. High zinc concentrations elicit optically-detectable vimentin structures with a characteristic morphology depending on the support. These effects also occur in vimentin C328S, but are not mimicked by magnesium. Treatment of vimentin with micromolar ZnCl2 induces fibril-like particles that do not assemble into filaments, but form aggregates upon subsequent addition of NaCl. In contrast, when added to NaCl-polymerized vimentin, zinc increases the diameter or induces lateral association of vimentin wt filaments. Remarkably, these effects are absent or attenuated in vimentin C328S filaments. Therefore, the zinc-vimentin interaction depends on the chemical environment and on the assembly state of the protein, leading to atypical polymerization of soluble vimentin, likely through electrostatic interactions, or to broadening and lateral association of preformed filaments through mechanisms requiring the cysteine residue. Thus, the impact of zinc on vimentin assembly and redox regulation is envisaged. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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17 pages, 4495 KiB  
Review
The Complexity of the Ovine and Caprine Keratin-Associated Protein Genes
by Huitong Zhou, Hua Gong, Jiqing Wang, Yuzhu Luo, Shaobin Li, Jinzhong Tao and Jonathan G. H. Hickford
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(23), 12838; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms222312838 - 27 Nov 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2333
Abstract
Sheep (Ovis aries) and goats (Capra hircus) have, for more than a millennia, been a source of fibres for human use, be it for use in clothing and furnishings, for insulation, for decorative and ceremonial purposes, or for combinations [...] Read more.
Sheep (Ovis aries) and goats (Capra hircus) have, for more than a millennia, been a source of fibres for human use, be it for use in clothing and furnishings, for insulation, for decorative and ceremonial purposes, or for combinations thereof. While use of these natural fibres has in some respects been superseded by the use of synthetic and plant-based fibres, increased accounting for the carbon and water footprint of these fibres is creating a re-emergence of interest in fibres derived from sheep and goats. The keratin-associated proteins (KAPs) are structural components of wool and hair fibres, where they form a matrix that cross-links with the keratin intermediate filaments (KIFs), the other main structural component of the fibres. Since the first report of a complete KAP protein sequence in the late 1960s, considerable effort has been made to identify the KAP proteins and their genes in mammals, and to ascertain how these genes and proteins control fibre growth and characteristics. This effort is ongoing, with more and more being understood about the structure and function of the genes. This review consolidates that knowledge and suggests future directions for research to further our understanding. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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27 pages, 3248 KiB  
Review
Skeletal and Cardiac Muscle Disorders Caused by Mutations in Genes Encoding Intermediate Filament Proteins
by Lorenzo Maggi, Manolis Mavroidis, Stelios Psarras, Yassemi Capetanaki and Giovanna Lattanzi
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2021, 22(8), 4256; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22084256 - 20 Apr 2021
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4296
Abstract
Intermediate filaments are major components of the cytoskeleton. Desmin and synemin, cytoplasmic intermediate filament proteins and A-type lamins, nuclear intermediate filament proteins, play key roles in skeletal and cardiac muscle. Desmin, encoded by the DES gene (OMIM *125660) and A-type lamins by the [...] Read more.
Intermediate filaments are major components of the cytoskeleton. Desmin and synemin, cytoplasmic intermediate filament proteins and A-type lamins, nuclear intermediate filament proteins, play key roles in skeletal and cardiac muscle. Desmin, encoded by the DES gene (OMIM *125660) and A-type lamins by the LMNA gene (OMIM *150330), have been involved in striated muscle disorders. Diseases include desmin-related myopathy and cardiomyopathy (desminopathy), which can be manifested with dilated, restrictive, hypertrophic, arrhythmogenic, or even left ventricular non-compaction cardiomyopathy, Emery–Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy (EDMD2 and EDMD3, due to LMNA mutations), LMNA-related congenital Muscular Dystrophy (L-CMD) and LMNA-linked dilated cardiomyopathy with conduction system defects (CMD1A). Recently, mutations in synemin (SYNM gene, OMIM *606087) have been linked to cardiomyopathy. This review will summarize clinical and molecular aspects of desmin-, lamin- and synemin-related striated muscle disorders with focus on LMNA and DES-associated clinical entities and will suggest pathogenetic hypotheses based on the interplay of desmin and lamin A/C. In healthy muscle, such interplay is responsible for the involvement of this network in mechanosignaling, nuclear positioning and mitochondrial homeostasis, while in disease it is disturbed, leading to myocyte death and activation of inflammation and the associated secretome alterations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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21 pages, 1659 KiB  
Review
Deimination, Intermediate Filaments and Associated Proteins
by Julie Briot, Michel Simon and Marie-Claire Méchin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(22), 8746; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21228746 - 19 Nov 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3087
Abstract
Deimination (or citrullination) is a post-translational modification catalyzed by a calcium-dependent enzyme family of five peptidylarginine deiminases (PADs). Deimination is involved in physiological processes (cell differentiation, embryogenesis, innate and adaptive immunity, etc.) and in autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and lupus), cancers [...] Read more.
Deimination (or citrullination) is a post-translational modification catalyzed by a calcium-dependent enzyme family of five peptidylarginine deiminases (PADs). Deimination is involved in physiological processes (cell differentiation, embryogenesis, innate and adaptive immunity, etc.) and in autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and lupus), cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. Intermediate filaments (IF) and associated proteins (IFAP) are major substrates of PADs. Here, we focus on the effects of deimination on the polymerization and solubility properties of IF proteins and on the proteolysis and cross-linking of IFAP, to finally expose some features of interest and some limitations of citrullinomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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26 pages, 10706 KiB  
Review
Lamin A/C and the Immune System: One Intermediate Filament, Many Faces
by Angela Saez, Beatriz Herrero-Fernandez, Raquel Gomez-Bris, Beatriz Somovilla-Crespo, Cristina Rius and Jose M. Gonzalez-Granado
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(17), 6109; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21176109 - 25 Aug 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4744
Abstract
Nuclear envelope lamin A/C proteins are a major component of the mammalian nuclear lamina, a dense fibrous protein meshwork located in the nuclear interior. Lamin A/C proteins regulate nuclear mechanics and structure and control cellular signaling, gene transcription, epigenetic regulation, cell cycle progression, [...] Read more.
Nuclear envelope lamin A/C proteins are a major component of the mammalian nuclear lamina, a dense fibrous protein meshwork located in the nuclear interior. Lamin A/C proteins regulate nuclear mechanics and structure and control cellular signaling, gene transcription, epigenetic regulation, cell cycle progression, cell differentiation, and cell migration. The immune system is composed of the innate and adaptive branches. Innate immunity is mediated by myeloid cells such as neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells. These cells produce a rapid and nonspecific response through phagocytosis, cytokine production, and complement activation, as well as activating adaptive immunity. Specific adaptive immunity is activated by antigen presentation by antigen presenting cells (APCs) and the cytokine microenvironment, and is mainly mediated by the cellular functions of T cells and the production of antibodies by B cells. Unlike most cell types, immune cells regulate their lamin A/C protein expression relatively rapidly to exert their functions, with expression increasing in macrophages, reducing in neutrophils, and increasing transiently in T cells. In this review, we discuss and summarize studies that have addressed the role played by lamin A/C in the functions of innate and adaptive immune cells in the context of human inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, pathogen infections, and cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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27 pages, 2512 KiB  
Review
Vimentin as a Multifaceted Player and Potential Therapeutic Target in Viral Infections
by Irene Ramos, Konstantinos Stamatakis, Clara L. Oeste and Dolores Pérez-Sala
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21(13), 4675; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21134675 - 30 Jun 2020
Cited by 98 | Viewed by 10735
Abstract
Vimentin is an intermediate filament protein that plays key roles in integration of cytoskeletal functions, and therefore in basic cellular processes such as cell division and migration. Consequently, vimentin has complex implications in pathophysiology. Vimentin is required for a proper immune response, but [...] Read more.
Vimentin is an intermediate filament protein that plays key roles in integration of cytoskeletal functions, and therefore in basic cellular processes such as cell division and migration. Consequently, vimentin has complex implications in pathophysiology. Vimentin is required for a proper immune response, but it can also act as an autoantigen in autoimmune diseases or as a damage signal. Although vimentin is a predominantly cytoplasmic protein, it can also appear at extracellular locations, either in a secreted form or at the surface of numerous cell types, often in relation to cell activation, inflammation, injury or senescence. Cell surface targeting of vimentin appears to associate with the occurrence of certain posttranslational modifications, such as phosphorylation and/or oxidative damage. At the cell surface, vimentin can act as a receptor for bacterial and viral pathogens. Indeed, vimentin has been shown to play important roles in virus attachment and entry of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus (SARS-CoV), dengue and encephalitis viruses, among others. Moreover, the presence of vimentin in specific virus-targeted cells and its induction by proinflammatory cytokines and tissue damage contribute to its implication in viral infection. Here, we recapitulate some of the pathophysiological implications of vimentin, including the involvement of cell surface vimentin in interaction with pathogens, with a special focus on its role as a cellular receptor or co-receptor for viruses. In addition, we provide a perspective on approaches to target vimentin, including antibodies or chemical agents that could modulate these interactions to potentially interfere with viral pathogenesis, which could be useful when multi-target antiviral strategies are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Intermediate Filaments)
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