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The mitochondrial localization of RelB and NFATx in immature T cells

Abstract

In order to exert their activity, transcription factors must be transported to the nucleus. Certain transcription factors have also been found on mitochondria. Here, the localization of RelB and NFATx in the mitochondrial fractions of normal thymocytes and thymic lymphoma cells is shown for the first time. CREB was only found in the nucleus, while p50 (NFκB) was found in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm, but outside the mitochondria. The translocation of transcription factors to the mitochondria is differentially regulated. Unlike RelB, which is always present in the mitochondrial fraction, NFATx appeared on the mitochondria in cells treated with ionomycin together with an immunosuppressant and inhibitor of calcineurin (FK506). This data reveals that the mitochondrial localization of some transcription factors is precisely controlled by a calcium signal sensitive to FK506 in T cells.

Abbreviations

AP-1:

activator protein 1

CREB:

cAMP response element-binding protein

ECL:

enhanced chemiluminescence

FCS:

foetal calf serum

GR:

glucocorticoid receptor

Hsp60:

60-kDA heat-shock protein

JNK:

c-Jun N-terminal kinase

NFATx (NFATc3):

nuclear factor of activated T cells 3

NFκB:

nuclear factor κB

PBS:

phosphate-buffered saline

PVDF:

polyvinylidene difluoride

p38:

mitogenactivated protein kinase p38

SDS:

sodium dodecyl sulphate

SDS-PAGE:

SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis

TBS:

Tris buffer solution

TCR:

T-cell receptor

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Correspondence to Leon Strządała.

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Stasik, I., Rapak, A., Zioło, E. et al. The mitochondrial localization of RelB and NFATx in immature T cells. Cell Mol Biol Lett 13, 493–501 (2008). https://doi.org/10.2478/s11658-008-0019-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/s11658-008-0019-4

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