Vear, a Novel Golgi-associated Protein with VHS and γ-Adaptin “Ear” Domains

The molecular basis of the selectivity and the details of the vesicle formation in endocytic and secretory pathways are still poorly known and most probably involve as yet unidentified components. Here we describe the cloning, expression, and tissue and cell distribution of a novel protein of 67 kDa (called Vear) that bears homology to several endocytosis-associated proteins in that it has a VHS domain in its N terminus. It is also similar to γ-adaptin, the heavy subunit of AP-1, in having in its C terminus a typical “ear” domain. In immunofluorescence microscopy, Vear was seen in the Golgi complex as judged by a typical distribution pattern, a distinct colocalization with the Golgi marker γ-adaptin, and a sensitivity to treatment of cells with brefeldin A. In cell fractionation, Vear partitioned with the post-nuclear membrane fraction. In transfection experiments, hemagglutinin-tagged full-length Vear and truncated Vear lacking the VHS domain assembled on and caused compaction of the Golgi complex. Golgi association without compaction was seen with the ear domain of Vear, whereas the VHS domain alone showed a diffuse membrane- and vesicle-associated distribution. The Golgi association and the bipartite structure along with the differential targeting of its domains suggest that Vear is involved in heterotypic vesicle/suborganelle interactions associated with the Golgi complex. Tissue-specific function of Vear is suggested by its high level of expression in kidney, muscle, and heart.