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Cytoplasmic and nuclear cytokine receptor complexes.
H C Mertani1, G Morel, P E Lobie
1Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore, Republic of Singapore.
Vitamins and Hormones
|May 8, 1999
Summary
Cytokine and receptor intracellular localization challenges traditional cell surface signaling models. Intracellular actions of cytokines and their receptors offer new insights into cellular communication specificity.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Traditional models focus on cell surface receptor activation for cytokine signaling.
- The Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) pathway was initially considered cytokine receptor-specific.
- Cytokine signaling complexity extends beyond plasma membrane interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the emerging complexity of cytokine receptor superfamily signaling.
- To review evidence for intracellular localization of cytokines and their receptors.
- To discuss the implications of intracellular cytokine actions on cellular signaling specificity.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental data from multiple laboratories.
- Analysis of studies investigating intracellular translocation of cytokines, receptors, and signaling proteins.
- Correlation of biological responses with intracellular localization.
Main Results:
- Cytokines and their receptors have been found in intracellular compartments, including the nucleus.
- Biological responses are sometimes correlated with these intracellular locations.
- Cytokines may act as messengers through interactions with nuclear proteins.
Conclusions:
- Cytokine receptor signaling is more complex than previously understood.
- Intracellular localization of cytokines and receptors contributes to signaling specificity.
- Cytokine actions involve dynamic interplay with intracellular components and signaling pathways.