The R2TP Complex Couples mTORC1 Signaling to Vacuolar ATPase Assembly and Lysosomal Function.

Abstract

The vacuolar ATPase (V-ATPase) is essential for lysosomal acidification and autophagy, and its activity is regulated by nutrient-sensitive reversible assembly of its V1 and Vo domains. While mTORC1 is known to inhibit V-ATPase assembly, the precise molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, using TurboID-based proximity labeling and quantitative mass spectrometry, we identified the R2TP complex subunits RPAP3 and PIH1D1 as novel autophagy-responsive interactors of the V-ATPase V1A subunit (encoded by ATP6V1A). We found that mTORC1 inhibition disrupts the R2TP-V1A interaction, promoting the relocation of the V1 domain to lysosomes and its assembly with the Vo domain to form active proton pumps. Functionally, knockdown of RPAP3 or PIH1D1 enhanced autophagic flux, increased lysosomal proteolytic activity, and promoted the clearance of soluble α-synuclein in a cellular model of Parkinson's disease (PD). Our study reveals the R2TP complex as a critical molecular switch that couples mTORC1 signaling to V-ATPase assembly and lysosomal function, thereby identifying a new pathway for regulating lysosomal catabolism with significant therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative disorders.