RACK1 regulates neural development

Receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1) is an evolutionarily conserved scaffolding protein within the tryptophan-aspartate (WD) repeat family of proteins. RACK1 can bind multiple signaling molecules concurrently, as well as stabilize and anchor proteins. RACK1 also plays an important role at focal adhesions, where it acts to regulate cell migration. In addition, RACK1 is a ribosomal binding protein and thus, regulates translation. Despite these numerous functions, little is known about how RACK1 regulates nervous system development. Here, we review three studies that examine the role of RACK1 in neural development. In brief, these papers demonstrate that (1) RACK-1, the C. elegans homolog of mammalian RACK1, is required for axon guidance; (2) RACK1 is required for neurite extension of neuronally differentiated rat PC12 cells; and (3) RACK1 is required for axon outgrowth of primary mouse cortical neurons. Thus, it is evident that RACK1 is critical for appropriate neural development in a wide range of species, and future discoveries could reveal whether RACK1 and its signaling partners are potential targets for treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders or a therapeutic approach for axonal regeneration.