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Subcellular localization determines MAP kinase signal output
Author(s): Harding A, Tian TH, Westbury E, Frische E, Hancock JF
Source: CURRENT BIOLOGY    Volume: 15    Issue: 9    Pages: 869-873    Published: MAY 10 2005  
Times Cited: 53     References: 25     
Abstract: The Raf-MEK-ERK MAP kinase cascade transmits signals from activated receptors into the cell to regulate proliferation and differentiation. The cascade is controlled by the Ras GTPase, which recruits Raf from the cytosol to the plasma membrane for activation. In turn, MEK, ERK, and scaffold proteins translocate to the plasma membrane for activation. Here, we examine the input-output properties of the Raf-MEK-ERK MAP kinase module in mammalian cells activated in different cellular contexts. We show that the MAP kinase module operates as a molecular switch in vivo but that the input sensitivity of the module is determined by subcellular location. Signal output from the module is sensitive to low-level input only when it is activated at the plasma membrane. This is because the threshold for activation is low at the plasma membrane, whereas the threshold for activation is high in the cytosol. Thus, the circuit configuration of the module at the plasma membrane generates maximal outputs from low-level analog inputs, allowing cells to process and respond appropriately to physiological stimuli. These results reveal the engineering logic behind the recruitment of elements of the module from the cytosol to the membrane for activation.
Document Type: Article
Language: English
Reprint Address: Hancock, JF (reprint author), Univ Queensland, Inst Mol Biosci, Brisbane, Qld 4072 Australia
Addresses:
1. Univ Queensland, Inst Mol Biosci, Brisbane, Qld 4072 Australia
2. Univ Queensland, Dept Math, Adv Computat Modeling Ctr, Brisbane, Qld 4072 Australia
Publisher: CELL PRESS, 1100 MASSACHUSETTS AVE, CAMBRIDGE, MA 02138 USA
Subject Category: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
IDS Number: 928UV
ISSN: 0960-9822
DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2005.04.020
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