Divergent Effects of PERK and IRE1 Signaling on Cell Viability
2009

Effects of PERK and IRE1 Signaling on Cell Survival

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Lin Jonathan H., Li Han, Zhang Yuhong, Ron David, Walter Peter

Primary Institution: University of California San Francisco

Hypothesis

The duration of PERK and IRE1 signaling determines whether cells survive or undergo apoptosis in response to ER stress.

Conclusion

Sustained PERK signaling impairs cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis, while IRE1 signaling enhances cell proliferation without triggering cell death.

Supporting Evidence

  • Sustained PERK signaling leads to reduced cell numbers and increased apoptosis.
  • IRE1 signaling promotes cell proliferation without inducing cell death.
  • Chronic ER stress activates PERK while attenuating IRE1 signaling.

Takeaway

When cells are stressed, one signal can help them survive while another can make them die; it's all about how long each signal lasts.

Methodology

Chemical-genetic strategies were used to selectively activate PERK or IRE1 signaling in human cells.

Limitations

The study primarily focuses on specific cell lines, which may not fully represent all cell types.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0004170

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