Epithelial–mesenchymal transition, IP(3) receptors and ER–PM junctions: translocation of Ca(2+) signalling complexes and regulation of migration

Disconnection of a cell from its epithelial neighbours and the formation of a mesenchymal phenotype are associated with profound changes in the distribution of cellular components and the formation of new cellular polarity. We observed a dramatic redistribution of inositol trisphosphate receptors (IP(3)Rs) and stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1)-competent endoplasmic reticulum–plasma membrane junctions (ER–PM junctions) when pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells disconnect from their neighbours and undergo individual migration. In cellular monolayers IP(3)Rs are juxtaposed with tight junctions. When individual cells migrate away from their neighbours IP(3)Rs preferentially accumulate at the leading edge where they surround focal adhesions. Uncaging of inositol trisphosphate (IP(3)) resulted in prominent accumulation of paxillin in focal adhesions, highlighting important functional implications of the observed novel structural relationships. ER–PM junctions and STIM1 proteins also migrate to the leading edge and position closely behind the IP(3)Rs, creating a stratified distribution of Ca(2+) signalling complexes in this region. Importantly, migration of PDAC cells was strongly suppressed by selective inhibition of IP(3)Rs and store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE), indicating that these mechanisms are functionally required for migration.