Class I and class III phosphoinositide 3-kinases are required for actin polymerization that propels phagosomes

Abstract

Actin polymerization drives the extension of pseudopods that trap and engulf phagocytic targets. The polymerized actin subsequently dissociates as the phagocytic vacuole seals and detaches from the plasma membrane. We found that phagosomes formed by engagement of integrins that serve as complement receptors (CR3) undergo secondary waves of actin polymerization, leading to the formation of “comet tails” that propel the vacuoles inside the cells. Actin tail formation was accompanied by and required de novo formation of PI(3,4)P2 and PI(3,4,5)P3 on the phagosomal membrane by class I phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks). Although the phosphatidylinositide phosphatase Inpp5B was recruited to nascent phagosomes, it rapidly detached from the membrane after phagosomes sealed. Detachment of Inpp5B required the formation of PI(3)P. Thus, class III PI3K activity was also required for the accumulation of PI(4,5)P2 and PI(3,4,5)P3 and for actin tail formation. These experiments reveal a new PI(3)P-sensitive pathway leading to PI(3,4)P2 and PI(3,4,5)P3 formation and signaling in endomembranes.