Cdk1 regulates cell-cell junction organization throughout the cell cycle to maintain epithelial barrier integrity
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ABSTRACT: Cdk1 is a master regulator of cell cycle progression and associated changes in cell shape, functions that have primarily been studied in single cells. However, cells exist within tissues, where cell cycle-associated shape changes must occur without compromising tissue function. As such, epithelial cells are tightly connected to form protective barriers, yet how epithelial cell-cell junctions are modulated throughout the cell cycle to maintain barrier function remains unclear. Here, we show that a pool of Cdk1 localizes to cell-cell contacts in epithelial cells and phosphorylates substrates at this cellular location throughout the cell cycle. Proteomic analysis identifies these Cdk1 substrates as components of cell-cell adhesion complexes. We demonstrate that Cdk1 activity controls the organization of cell-cell junctions and consequently is essential for preserving integrity of the epithelial barrier. These findings expand the role of Cdk1 to the regulation of cell-cell adhesion, establishing a direct link between the cell cycle machinery and epithelial integrity.
INSTRUMENT(S):
ORGANISM(S): Canis Familiaris (dog) (canis Lupus Familiaris)
SUBMITTER:
Harmjan Vos
LAB HEAD: Martijn Gloerich
PROVIDER: PXD063102 | Pride | 2026-06-12
REPOSITORIES: Pride
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