JAMP, a JUB N-terminal kinase 1 (JNK1)-associated membrane protein, regulates duration of JNK activity

We report the identification and characterization of JAMP (JNK1 [Jun N-terminal kinase 1]-associated membrane protein), a predicted seven-transmembrane protein that is localized primarily within the plasma membrane and associates with JNK1 through its C-terminal domain. JAMP association with JNK1 outcompetes JNK1 association with mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 5, resulting in increased and prolonged JNK1 activity following stress. Elevated expression of JAMP following UV or tunicamycin treatment results in sustained JNK activity and a higher level of JNK-dependent apoptosis. Inhibition of JAMP expression by RNA interference reduces the degree and duration of JNK activation and concomitantly the level of stress-induced apoptosis. Through its regulation of JNK1 activity, JAMP emerges as a membrane-anchored regulator of the duration of JNK1 activity in response to diverse stress stimuli.