Intracellular localization of RORα is isoform and cell line-dependent

The retinoid-related orphan receptor α (RORα) belongs to the nuclear receptor superfamily and comprises four isoforms generated by different promotor usage and alternative splicing. To better understand its function, the subcellular distribution of RORα was investigated. We could show that subcellular distribution of RORα is cell line and isoform-dependent. Isoform specific differences were mediated by the A/B domains which with the exception of RORα1 contain a signal that mediates cytoplasmic localization. The lack of this signal in RORα1 results in a complete nuclear localization and prevents cell membrane association observed for RORα2, 3, and 4. The region responsible for membrane association was identified as the C-terminal α-helix 12. Furthermore, the hinge region/ligand binding domain mediates nuclear localization. Our results show that isoform specific activity of RORα is not only regulated by different expression and DNA binding affinities but also by different subcellular distribution. Different access to the nucleus reveals an important mechanism regulating the activity of this constitutively active nuclear receptor.