Modulation of Actin Network and Tau Phosphorylation by HDAC6 ZnF UBP  Domain

Abstract Microtubule-associated protein Tau undergoes aggregation in Alzheimer`s disease and a group of other related diseases collectively known as Tauopathies. In AD, Tau forms aggregates, which are deposited intracellularly as neurofibrillary tangles. HDAC6 plays an important role in aggresome formation where it recruits polyubiquitinated aggregates to the motor protein dynein. Here, we have studied the effect of HDAC6 ZnF UBP on Tau phosphorylation, ApoE localization, GSK-3β regulation and cytoskeletal organization in neuronal cells by immunocytochemistry. Immunocytochemistry reveals that HDAC6 ZnF UBP can modulate Tau phosphorylation and actin cytoskeleton organization when the cells are exposed to the domain. HDAC6 ZnF UBP treatment to cells does not affect their viability and resulted in enhanced neurite extension and formation of structures similar to podosomes, lamellipodia and podonuts suggesting its role in actin re-organization. Also, HDAC6 treatment showed increased nuclear localization of ApoE and tubulin localization in microtubule organizing centre (MTOC). Our studies suggest the regulatory role of this domain in different aspects of neurodegenerative diseases.