Microtubule Lattice Spacing Governs MAP-Motor Regulation

Microtubule posttranslational modifications provide unique recognition patterns for associated proteins

Microtubules are key components of the eukaryotic cytoskeleton involved in vital functions in virtually every cell. Among the emerging molecular mechanisms to adapt microtubules to their diverse functions is the biochemical diversification of tubulin molecules by posttranslational modifications (PTMs) and differential...

Pironetin Preferentially Inhibits Microtubule Minus-End Growth and Enables Polarity Marking

Patronin condensation integrates recognition, protection and organization of microtubule minus ends

It is shown that Drosophila Patronin forms dynamic condensates at microtubule minus ends through a prion-like domain (PrLD), which creates a physiologically essential microtubule minus-end compartment coupling end recognition, stabilization and cytoskeletal organization.

Dynamic microtubule-end structure governs multivalent kinetochore coupling by the Dam1c ring

Accurate chromosome segregation relies on kinetochores maintaining load-bearing attachments to dynamic microtubule ends, a coupling in which the Dam1 complex ring is central. How the microtubule-end structure and ring–microtubule interactions collectively determine attachment stability and drive force transduction rema...

Experimental Tools and Techniques for Studying Microtubule Nucleation at the Centrosome and the Golgi Apparatus.

This chapter presents immunofluorescence techniques to study microtubule cytoskeleton, centrosome, and Golgi apparatus in both two- and three-dimensional cultures and describes assays to investigate microtubule nucleation at the centrosome and the Golgi apparatus after microtubule depolymerization.

Mechanisms of Stability of the Metaphase Spindle and Associated Proteins Regulating Microtubule Flux.

How the metaphase spindle in higher eukaryotes maintains stability in the presence of poleward microtubule (MT) flux is a confusing issue. Here, we present a model for the spindle by incorporating augmin-mediated MT connections and MT crosslinking by NuMA proteins. On the basis of the model, we study computationally th...