PTP-MEG2 regulates quantal size and fusion pore opening through two distinct structural bases and substrates

ABSTRACT Tyrosine phosphorylation of secretion machinery proteins is a crucial regulatory mechanism for exocytosis. However, the participation of protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) in different exocytosis stages has not been defined. Here we demonstrated that PTP-MEG2 controls multiple steps of catecholamine secretion. Biochemical and crystallographic analyses revealed key residues that the interactions between govern the PTP-MEG2 and NSF-pY 83 site, specify PTP-MEG2 substrate selectivity and modulate the fusion of catecholamine-containing vesicles. Unexpectedly, delineation of PTP-MEG2 mutants along with the NSF binding interface revealed that PTP-MEG2 controls the fusion pore opening through non-NSF dependent mechanisms. Utilizing bioinformatics search and biochemical and electrochemical screening approaches, we discovered that PTP-MEG2 regulates the opening and extension of the fusion pore by dephosphorylating the DYNAMIN2-pY 125 and MUNC18-1-pY 145 site. Further structural and biochemical analysis confirmed the interaction of PTP-MEG2 with MUNC18-1-pY 145 or DYNAMIN2-pY 125 through a distinct structural basis compared with that of the NSF-pY 83 site. Our studies extended mechanistic insights in complex exocytosis processes. HIGHLIGHTS PTP-MEG2 regulates multiple steps of exocytosis. A crystal structure of the PTP-MEG2/phosphor-NSF-pY 83 segment was obtained. Functional delineation of the PTP-MEG2/NSF interface led to the discovery of new PTP-MEG2 substrates. PTP-MEG2 regulates fusion pore opening and extension through the DYNAMIN2-pY 125 site and MUNC18-1 pY 145 site. The distinct structural basis of the recognition of substrates by PTP-MEG2 allows selective inhibitor design.