Akt-elicited phosphorylation of Acapin steers cell migration
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Cell migration requires the generation of branched actin networks and recruitment of vesicular membrane that power the protrusion of the plasma membrane in lamellipodia. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying dynamic recruitment of vesicular membrane during cell migration remain elusive. Here, we report a critical mechanism underlying epidermal growth factor (EGF)-elicited Akt signaling-steered cell migration. Using functional proteomics screen, we identified a novel ADP-ribosylation factor 6 (ARF6)-ACAP4 signaling regulator, Acapin, which inhibits the GTPase-activating protein (GAP) activity of ACAP4 to activate ARF6 GTPase in vitro. In cells, EGF stimulation elicits Akt signaling, which recruits Acapin to the lamellipodium membrane via phosphorylation of Acapin at its Ser247 residue and enhances the binding of Acapin to ACAP4 to elevate the ARF6-GTP level. Therefore, Acapin is required for efficiently stimulating cell migration by EGF-Akt signaling. Together, our results demonstrate the role of Acapin in relaying the Akt signaling cascade during cell migration processes.
DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjaf010
Institutions: University of Science and Technology of China, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Fu Wai Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Atlanta Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Northwestern University
Language: English
Subfield: Cell Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,900
OpenAlex ID: W4408465000