Related Experiment Videos

Modulation of the transport of a lysosomal enzyme by PDGF

E M Prence1, J M Dong, G G Sahagian

  • 1Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.

Insights

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) regulates the secretion of major excreted protein (MEP), a lysosomal protease. PDGF independently controls MEP synthesis and secretion, impacting cell growth and transformation.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • The major excreted protein (MEP) is a lysosomal protease, cathepsin L, secreted by transformed and untransformed mouse cells.
  • MEP is implicated in cell growth, transformation, and secretion in response to growth factors and tumor promoters.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between MEP synthesis and secretion in NIH 3T3 cells treated with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF).
  • To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms controlling MEP diversion from the lysosomal to the secretory pathway.

Main Methods:

  • NIH 3T3 cells were treated with PDGF to analyze MEP synthesis and secretion over time.
  • Investigated the effect of cycloheximide on PDGF-induced MEP secretion.
  • Assessed changes in mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P) receptor-mediated endocytosis.

Main Results:

  • PDGF treatment independently enhanced MEP synthesis and secretion, diverting it to a secretory pathway.
  • MEP secretion occurred rapidly upon PDGF addition, preceding elevated synthesis; both peaked between 2-14 hours.
  • PDGF-induced MEP secretion was protein synthesis-dependent and specifically affected MEP, not other lysosomal enzymes.

Conclusions:

  • PDGF differentially regulates MEP synthesis and secretion, with independent temporal control.
  • PDGF alters Man-6-P receptor distribution, leading to selective MEP secretion due to limited receptor availability.
  • These findings provide insights into the role of MEP in cell growth and transformation.

Related Concept Videos