4E-BP1-dependent translation in nociceptors controls mechanical hypersensitivity via TRIM32/type I interferon signaling

Sci Adv. 2023 Nov 3;9(44):eadh9603. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adh9603. Epub 2023 Nov 3.

Abstract

Activation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) contributes to the development of chronic pain. However, the specific mechanisms by which mTORC1 causes hypersensitivity remain elusive. The eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) is a key mTORC1 downstream effector that represses translation initiation. Here, we show that nociceptor-specific deletion of 4E-BP1, mimicking activation of mTORC1-dependent translation, is sufficient to cause mechanical hypersensitivity. Using translating ribosome affinity purification in nociceptors lacking 4E-BP1, we identified a pronounced translational up-regulation of tripartite motif-containing protein 32 (TRIM32), an E3 ubiquitin ligase that promotes interferon signaling. Down-regulation of TRIM32 in nociceptors or blocking type I interferon signaling reversed the mechanical hypersensitivity in mice lacking 4E-BP1. Furthermore, nociceptor-specific ablation of TRIM32 alleviated mechanical hypersensitivity caused by tissue inflammation. These results show that mTORC1 in nociceptors promotes hypersensitivity via 4E-BP1-dependent up-regulation of TRIM32/interferon signaling and identify TRIM32 as a therapeutic target in inflammatory pain.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / genetics
  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Cell Cycle Proteins / metabolism
  • Interferon Type I* / metabolism
  • Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Nociceptors* / metabolism
  • Phosphoproteins / metabolism
  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases / genetics
  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases / metabolism

Substances

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • Cell Cycle Proteins
  • Phosphoproteins
  • Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1
  • Interferon Type I
  • TRIM32 protein, mouse
  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases