Downregulation of Ras C-terminal processing by JNK inhibition

Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2008 Jun 27;371(2):273-7. doi: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.04.057. Epub 2008 Apr 22.

Abstract

After translation, Ras proteins undergo a series of modifications at their C-termini. This post-translational C-terminal processing is essential for Ras to become functional, but it remains unknown whether and how Ras C-terminal processing is regulated. Here we show that the C-terminal processing and subsequent plasma membrane localization of H-Ras as well as the activation of the downstream signaling pathways by H-Ras are prevented by JNK inhibition. Conversely, JNK activation by ultraviolet irradiation resulted in promotion of C-terminal processing of H-Ras. Furthermore, increased cell density promoted C-terminal processing of H-Ras most likely through an autocrine/paracrine mechanism, which was also blocked under JNK-inhibited condition. Ras C-terminal processing was sensitive to JNK inhibition in the case of H- and N-Ras but not K-Ras, and in a variety of cell types. Thus, our results suggest for the first time that Ras C-terminal processing is a regulated mechanism in which JNK is involved.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Count
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Down-Regulation
  • Humans
  • MAP Kinase Kinase 4 / antagonists & inhibitors
  • MAP Kinase Kinase 4 / metabolism*
  • MAP Kinase Kinase 4 / radiation effects
  • Oncogene Protein p21(ras) / analysis
  • Oncogene Protein p21(ras) / genetics
  • Oncogene Protein p21(ras) / metabolism*
  • Protein Processing, Post-Translational*
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins p21(ras) / analysis
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins p21(ras) / genetics
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins p21(ras) / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction
  • Ultraviolet Rays

Substances

  • MAP Kinase Kinase 4
  • Oncogene Protein p21(ras)
  • Proto-Oncogene Proteins p21(ras)