N-terminal α-Amino SUMOylation Promotes Phosphorylation-Independent Cofilin-1 Translocation to the Mitochondrial Matrix and Induces Apoptosis
Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT: Cofilin (CFL) is a key regulator of actin dynamics that primarily governs the transition between filamentous actin (F-actin) and globular actin (G-actin) through phosphorylation. Beyond its established role in cytoskeletal remodeling, we investigate CFL1’s involvement in mitochondrial dynamics, emphasizing N-terminal α-amino SUMOylation, which enhances mitochondrial translocation via Tom20/Tom70 interactions mediated by HSP70. These findings challenge the conventional paradigm that CFL1 activity is driven solely by phosphorylation and actin binding, revealing an actin-independent mechanism influencing mitochondrial integrity and apoptosis initiation. Moreover, our study identifies that CFL1’s localization in the mitochondrial matrix is a critical determinant of mitochondrial dysfunction and cytochrome c (Cyt c) release. SUMOylated CFL1 interacts with cytochrome c1 (CYC1), promoting Cyt c release and apoptosis. This work offers new insights into the regulation of mitochondrial apoptosis and suggests potential therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction and aberrant apoptotic pathways.
ORGANISM(S): Homo Sapiens
SUBMITTER:
Yong Li
PROVIDER: PXD070400 | iProX | Thu Nov 06 00:00:00 GMT 2025
REPOSITORIES: iProX
ACCESS DATA