The Arf family GTPases: Regulation of vesicle biogenesis and beyond

• Published in: BioEssays 2023-06, Vol.45 (6), p.e2200214-n/a
• Main Authors: Li, Fu‐Long, Guan, Kun‐Liang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: ADP-Ribosylation Factors - metabolism; amino acid sensing; Amino acids; Arf GTPase; Chemoreception; cilium; Cytoskeleton; In vivo methods and tests; lipid; Lipids; lysosome; Mitochondria; Proteins; vesicle
• ISSN: 0265-9247; 1521-1878
• DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200214

The Arf family proteins are best known for their roles in the vesicle biogenesis. However, they also play fundamental roles in a wide range of cellular regulation besides vesicular trafficking, such as modulation of lipid metabolic enzymes, cytoskeleton remodeling, ciliogenesis, lysosomal, and mitochondrial morphology and functions. Growing studies continue to expand the downstream effector landscape of Arf proteins, especially for the less‐studied members, revealing new biological functions, such as amino acid sensing. Experiments with cutting‐edge technologies and in vivo functional studies in the last decade help to provide a more comprehensive view of Arf family functions. In this review, we summarize the cellular functions that are regulated by at least two different Arf members with an emphasis on those beyond vesicle biogenesis. The Arf family proteins are best known for their roles in the vesicle biogenesis and modulation of lipid metabolic enzymes. Growing studies continue to expand the downstream effector landscape of Arf proteins, revealing additional biological functions, such as cytoskeleton remodeling, ciliogenesis, amino acid sensing, regulation of lysosomal and mitochondrial functions.