A Ca2+-dependent Mechanism of Neuronal Survival Mediated by the Microtubule-associated Protein p600

In acute and chronic neurodegeneration, Ca2+ mishandling and disruption of the cytoskeleton compromise neuronal integrity, yet abnormalities in the signaling roles of cytoskeletal proteins remain largely unexplored. We now report that the microtubule-associated protein p600 (also known as UBR4) promotes neuronal survival. Following depletion of p600, glutamate-induced Ca2+ influx through NMDA receptors, but not AMPA receptors, initiates a degenerative process characterized by endoplasmic reticulum fragmentation and endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release via inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors. Downstream of NMDA receptors, p600 associates with the calmodulin·calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIα complex. A direct and atypical p600/calmodulin interaction is required for neuronal survival. Thus, p600 counteracts specific Ca2+-induced death pathways through regulation of Ca2+ homeostasis and signaling.