Apoptosis and the yeast actin cytoskeleton

Abstract

Actin represents one of the most abundant and extensively studied proteins found in eukaryotic cells. It has been identified as a major target for destruction during the process of apoptosis. Recent research has also highlighted a role for cytoskeletal components in the initiation and inhibition of apoptotic processes. The high degree of conservation that exists between actins from divergent eukaryotes, particularly with respect to those that contribute to the cytoskeleton, has meant that functional studies from the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae have proven useful in elucidating its cellular roles. Within the context of apoptosis in yeasts, actin seems to function as part of the signalling mechanisms that link nutritional sensing to a mitochondrialdependent commitment to cell death. Studies in yeasts have also shown that oxidative damage accrued by the actin cytoskeleton is closely monitored and is tethered to an apoptotic response. Strong, but as yet, undefined links between the actin cytoskeleton and apoptosis have also been described in studies from plant and animal systems. The widespread involvement of actin in apoptotic mechanisms from diverse eukaryotic organisms raises the possibility of conserved regulatory pathways, further strengthening the relevance of yeast research in this area.

1α,25(OH)2D3 Induces Actin Depolymerization in Endometrial Carcinoma Cells by Targeting RAC1 and PAK1

“…Early and/or late actin restructuring, following modifications of actin polymerization dynamics equilibrium, is a cellular response initiated by various signals including growth factors and cytokines [15][16][17], hormones [18][19][20][21] and ions [22,23]. Alterations of actin organization, in turn, govern crucial cellular functions and outcomes such as cell volume regulation [24], survival [25], migration and cell motility [26,27], secretion [28], cell growth and proliferation [29] as well as apoptosis [30,31].…”

β-Actin-binding Complementarity-determining Region 2 of Variable Heavy Chain from Monoclonal Antibody C7 Induces Apoptosis in Several Human Tumor Cells and Is Protective against Metastatic Melanoma

“…Mitochondrial targeting of cofilin induces cytochrome c leakage and apoptosis (43). The regulation of actin pools through the action of actin-binding proteins, has been implicated in apoptosis regulation in both mammalian and yeast cells (44).…”

Signalling Oxidative Stress in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

“…According to this balance cells will be committed, or not, to cell death (Leadsham et al, 2010). A descent in the actin polymerising activity leads to the formation of actin aggregates associated to the accumulation of ROS in the cytosol (Gourlay & Ayscough, 2005aLeadsham et al, 2009).…”