Direct binding of RalA to PKCη and its crucial role in morphological change during keratinocyte differentiation.

ABSTRACT: During differentiation, keratinocytes undergo a dramatic shape change from small and round to large and flat, in addition to production of proteins necessary for the formation of epidermis. It has been shown that protein kinase C (PKC) η is crucial for keratinocyte differentiation. However, its role in this process has yet to be fully elucidated. Here, we show that catalytic activity is not necessary for enlarged and flattened morphology of human keratinocytes induced by overexpression of PKCη, although it is important for gene expression of the marker proteins. In addition, we identify the small G protein RalA as a binding partner of PKCη, which binds to the C1 domain, an indispensable region for the morphological change. The binding led activation of RalA and actin depolymerization assoc

SUBMITTER: Shirai Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3078077 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature