Localization of A20 to a lysosome-associated compartment and its role in NFκB signaling

A20 is a tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-inducible zinc finger protein that contains both ubiquitinating and deubiquitinating activities. A20 negatively regulates NFκB (nuclear factor κB) signaling induced by TNF receptor family and Toll-like receptors, but the mechanism of A20 action is poorly defined. Here we show that a fraction of endogenous and ectopically expressed A20 is localized to an endocytic membrane compartment that is in association with the lysosome. The lysosomal association of A20 requires its carboxy terminal zinc finger domains, but is independent of its ubiquitin-modifying activities. Interestingly, A20 mutants defective in membrane association also contain reduced NFκB inhibitory activity. These findings suggest the involvement of a lysosome-associated mechanism in A20-dependent termination of NFκB signaling.