WD Repeat Domain of Dictyostelium Myosin Heavy Chain Kinase C Functions in both Substrate Targeting and Cellular Localization

Myosin II disassembly in Dictyostelium discoideum is regulated by three structurally related myosin heavy chain kinases (myosin II heavy chain kinase A [MHCK-A], -B, and -C). We show that the WD repeat domain of MHCK-C is unique in that it mediates both substrate targeting and subcellular localization, revealing a target for regulation that is distinct from those of the other MHCKs.The ability of a cell to undergo highly specific modifications in shape during processes such as cytokinesis, cell migration, cell adhesion, and receptor capping is dependent, in large part, on the proper control of where and when myosin II contracts actin filaments in the cell (3, 4). In Dictyostelium discoideum, myosin II filament disassembly is regulated by at least three myosin II heavy chain kinases (myosin II heavy chain kinase A [MHCK-A], MHCK-B, and MHCK-C). The Dictyostelium MHCKs possess alpha kinase domains and carboxyl-terminal WD repeat domains (11, 13, 17). The WD repeat domains of MHCK-A and MHCK-B facilitate myosin II heavy chain phosphorylation by these kinases by binding directly to myosin II filaments (14, 15). However, the WD repeat domains play no detectable role in determining the subcellular localization of these kinases. Similar functions for the WD repeat domain of MHCK-C have not been explored, and there is nothing known about the signaling events regulating MHCK-C localization and activity, thus limiting comparisons among the MHCKs that could ultimately reveal distinct functions and mechanisms of regulation for these seemingly redundant enzymes.