mTORC1-independent Raptor prevents hepatic steatosis by stabilizing PHLPP2

KyeongJin Kim, Li Qiang, Matthew S. Hayden, David P. Sparling, Nicole H. Purcell and Utpal B. Pajvani ()
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KyeongJin Kim: Columbia University
Li Qiang: Columbia University
Matthew S. Hayden: Columbia University
David P. Sparling: Columbia University
Nicole H. Purcell: University of California San Diego
Utpal B. Pajvani: Columbia University

Nature Communications, 2016, vol. 7, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract Mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), defined by the presence of Raptor, is an evolutionarily conserved and nutrient-sensitive regulator of cellular growth and other metabolic processes. To date, all known functions of Raptor involve its scaffolding mTOR kinase with substrate. Here we report that mTORC1-independent (‘free’) Raptor negatively regulates hepatic Akt activity and lipogenesis. Free Raptor levels in liver decline with age and in obesity; restoration of free Raptor levels reduces liver triglyceride content, through reduced β-TrCP-mediated degradation of the Akt phosphatase, PHLPP2. Commensurately, forced PHLPP2 expression ameliorates hepatic steatosis in diet-induced obese mice. These data suggest that the balance of free and mTORC1-associated Raptor governs hepatic lipid accumulation, and uncover the potentially therapeutic role of PHLPP2 activators in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Date: 2016
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10255

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