Dual regulation of neuronal morphogenesis by a δ-catenin–cortactin complex and Rho

Delta-catenin is a neuronal protein that contains 10 Armadillo motifs and binds to the juxtamembrane segment of classical cadherins. We report that delta-catenin interacts with cortactin in a tyrosine phosphorylation-dependent manner. This interaction occurs within a region of the delta-catenin sequence that is also essential for the neurite elongation effects. Src family kinases can phosphorylate delta-catenin and bind to delta-catenin through its polyproline tract. Under conditions when tyrosine phosphorylation is reduced, delta-catenin binds to cortactin and cells extend unbranched primary processes. Conversely, increasing tyrosine phosphorylation disrupts the delta-catenin-cortactin complex. When RhoA is inhibited, delta-catenin enhances the effects of Rho inhibition on branching. We conclude that delta-catenin contributes to setting a balance between neurite elongation and branching in the elaboration of a complex dendritic tree.