How ERK1 and ERK2 Differ in Their Function and Movement in Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Marchi Matilde, D'Antoni Angela, Formentini Ivan, Parra Riccardo, Brambilla Riccardo, Ratto Gian Michele, Costa Mario
Primary Institution: Institute of Neuroscience CNR, Pisa, Italy
Hypothesis
The different functions of ERK1 and ERK2 might depend on the properties of their cytoplasmic-nuclear trafficking.
Conclusion
ERK1 shuttles between the nucleus and cytoplasm at a much slower rate than ERK2, which affects its ability to transmit signals.
Supporting Evidence
- ERK1 and ERK2 share 85% of amino acid identity but have different functional outcomes when either is ablated.
- ERK1 shuttles through the nuclear membrane far more slowly than ERK2.
- The N-terminal domain of ERK1 is necessary and sufficient to slow down its nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling.
- Deletion of the N-terminus of ERK1 converts its shuttling properties to those of ERK2.
- ERK1's slower shuttling makes it more prone to inactivation in the nucleus compared to ERK2.
Takeaway
ERK1 and ERK2 are like two friends who can send messages, but one is much slower at getting to the other side, which means they can’t share information as quickly.
Methodology
The study used time-lapse imaging to characterize the trafficking of fluorescently tagged ERK1 and ERK2 in living cells.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website