Aquaporin-0 interacts with the FERM domain of ezrin/radixin/moesin proteins in the ocular lens.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Aquaporin 0 (AQP0) is the major intrinsic protein in the lens and is essential for establishing proper fiber cell structure and organization. Cytoskeletal proteins that directly interact with the C terminus of AQP0 are identified herein.

Methods

The water-insoluble fraction of lens fiber cells was chemically cross-linked, and cross-linked peptides with the C terminus of AQP0 were identified by mass spectrometry. Coimmunoprecipitation and AQP0 C-terminal peptide pulldown experiments were used to confirm the protein-protein interaction.

Results

Unexpectedly, AQP0 was found to directly associate with ezrin/radixin/moesin (ERM) family members, proteins that are involved in linkage of actin filaments to the plasma membrane. Cross-linked peptides were detected betwe

SUBMITTER: Wang Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3176042 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature