P21-Activated kinases are required for transformation in a cell-based model of neurofibromatosis type 2.

ABSTRACT:

Background

NF2 is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by development of bilateral vestibular schwannomas and other benign tumors in central nervous system. Loss of the NF2 gene product, Merlin, leads to aberrant Schwann cell proliferation, motility, and survival, but the mechanisms by which this tumor suppressor functions remain unclear. One well-defined target of Merlin is the group I family of p21-activated kinases, which are allosterically inhibited by Merlin and which, when activated, stimulate cell cycle progression, motility, and increased survival. Here, we examine the effect of Pak inhibition on cells with diminished Merlin function.

Methodology/principal findings

Using a specific peptide inhibitor of group I Paks, we show that loss of Pak activity restores n

SUBMITTER: Chow HY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2970553 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature