Live fluorescence imaging reveals early recruitment of emerin, LBR, RanBP2, and Nup153 to reforming functional nuclear envelopes

Nuclear reformation after mitosis requires downregulation of the Ran GTPase effector RanBP1 in mammalian cells

The GTPase Ran regulates nucleocytoplasmic transport in interphase and spindle organisation in mitosis via effectors of the importin beta superfamily. Ran-binding protein 1 (RanBP1) regulates guanine nucleotide turnover on Ran, as well as its interactions with effectors. Unlike other Ran network members that are steadily expressed, RanBP1 abundance is modulated during the mammalian cell cycle, peaking in mitosis and declining at mitotic exit. Here, we show that RanBP1 downregulation takes place in mid to late telophase, concomitant with the reformation of nuclei. Mild RanBP1 overexpression in murine cells causes RanBP1 to persist in late mitosis and hinders a set of events underlying the telophase to interphase transition, including chromatin decondensation, nuclear expansion and nuclear lamina reorganisation. Moreover, the reorganisation of nuclear pores fails associated with defective nuclear relocalisation of NLS cargoes. Co-expression of importin beta, together with RanBP1, however mitigates these defects. Thus, RanBP1 downregulation is required for nuclear reorganisation pathways operated by importin beta after mitosis.

Nuclear envelope influences on genome organization

The nuclear periphery is a specialized environment in the nucleus that contributes to genome organization and correspondingly to gene regulation. Mammalian chromosomes and certain genes occupy defined positions within the nucleus that are heritable and tissue specific. Genes located at the nuclear periphery tend to be inactive and this negative regulation can be reversed when they are released from the periphery in certain differentiation systems. Recent work using specially designed systems has shown that genes can be artificially tethered to the nuclear periphery by an affinity mechanism. The next important step will be to identify the endogenous NE (nuclear envelope) and chromatin proteins that participate in affinity-driven NE tethering and determine how they are regulated.

Lamin B receptor: multi-tasking at the nuclear envelope

Lamin B receptor (LBR) is an integral membrane protein of the interphase nuclear envelope (NE). The N-terminal end resides in the nucleoplasm, binding to lamin B and heterochromatin, with the interactions disrupted during mitosis. The C-terminal end resides within the inner nuclear membrane, retreating with the ER away from condensing chromosomes during mitotic NE breakdown. Some of these properties are interpretable in terms of our current structural knowledge of LBR, but many of the structural features remain unknown. LBR apparently has an evolutionary history which brought together at least two ancient conserved structural domains (i.e., Tudor and sterol reductase). This convergence may have occurred with the emergence of the chordates and echinoderms. It is not clear what survival values have maintained LBR structure during evolution. But it seems likely that roles in post-mitotic nuclear reformation, interphase NE growth and compartmentalization of nuclear architecture might have provided some evolutionary advantage to preservation of the LBR gene.

Differential nuclear envelope assembly at the end of mitosis in suspension-cultured Apium graveolens cells

NMCP1 is a plant protein that has a long coiled-coil domain within the molecule. Newly identified NMCP2 of Daucus carota and Apium graveolens showed similar peripheral localization in the interphase nucleus, and the sequence spanning the coiled-coil domain exhibited significant similarity with the corresponding region of NMCP1. To better understand disassembly and assembly of the nuclear envelope (NE) during mitosis, subcellular distribution of NMCP1 and NMCP2 was examined using A. graveolens cells. AgNMCP1 (NMCP1 in Apium) disassembled at prometaphase, dispersed mainly within the spindle, and accumulated on segregating chromosomes, while AgNMCP2 (NMCP2 in Apium), following disassembly at prometaphase with timing similar to that of AgNMCP1, dispersed throughout the mitotic cytoplasm at metaphase and anaphase. The protein accumulated at the periphery of reforming nuclei at telophase. A probe for the endomembrane indicated that the nuclear membrane (NM) disappears at prometaphase and begins to reappear at early telophase. Growth of the NM continued after mitosis was completed. NMCP2 in the mitotic cytoplasm localized in vesicular structures that could be distinguished from the bulk endomembrane system. These results suggest that NMCP1 and NMCP2 are recruited for NE assembly in different pathways in mitosis and that NMCP2 associates with NM-derived vesicles in the mitotic cytoplasm.

Diffusion of large molecules into assembling nuclei revealed using an optical highlighting technique

The nuclear envelope (NE) defines the nuclear compartment, and nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) on the NE form aqueous passages through which small water-soluble molecules can passively diffuse. It is well known that proteins smaller than 50 kDa can diffuse though NPCs, whereas proteins larger than 60 kDa rarely enter by passive diffusion. Little, however, is known about how this size cutoff develops as the NE reassembles and the nucleus expands. In 1987, a well-known study identified an efficient mechanism by which large diffusing proteins (> 60 kDa) were excluded from the reassembling nucleus after mitosis. Since then, it has been generally accepted that after mitosis, newly formed nuclei completely exclude all proteins except those that are initially bound to the mitotic chromosomes and those that are selectively imported through NPCs. Here, the tetrameric complex of the photoconvertible fluorescent protein KikGR ( approximately 103 kDa) was optically highlighted in the cytoplasm and followed to examine its entry into nuclei. Remarkably, highlighted complexes efficiently entered newly assembled nuclei during an approximately 20-min period after the completion of cytokinesis. Because KikGR contains no known nuclear-localization or chromosome-binding sequences, our results indicate the diffusion barrier is less restrictive during nuclear reassembly.

Transmembrane protein-free membranes fuse into xenopus nuclear envelope and promote assembly of functional pores

Post-mitotic reassembly of nuclear envelope (NE) and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) has been reconstituted in a cell-free system based on interphase Xenopus egg extract. To evaluate the relative contributions of cytosolic and transmembrane proteins in NE and ER assembly, we replaced a part of native membrane vesicles with ones either functionally impaired by trypsin or N-ethylmaleimide treatments or with protein-free liposomes. Although neither impaired membrane vesicles nor liposomes formed ER and nuclear membrane, they both supported assembly reactions by fusing with native membrane vesicles. At membrane concentrations insufficient to generate full-sized functional nuclei, addition of liposomes and their fusion with membrane vesicles resulted in an extensive expansion of NE, further chromatin decondensation, restoration of the functionality, and spatial distribution of the nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), and, absent newly delivered transmembrane proteins, an increase in NPC numbers. This rescue of the nuclear assembly by liposomes was inhibited by wheat germ agglutinin and thus required active nuclear transport, similarly to the assembly of full-sized functional NE with membrane vesicles. Mechanism of fusion between liposomes and between liposomes and membrane vesicles was investigated using lipid mixing assay. This fusion required interphase cytosol and, like fusion between native membrane vesicles, was inhibited by guanosine 5'-3-O-(thio)triphosphate, soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein, and N-ethylmaleimide. Our findings suggest that interphase cytosol contains proteins that mediate the fusion stage of ER and NE reassembly, emphasize an unexpected tolerance of nucleus assembly to changes in concentrations of transmembrane proteins, and reveal the existence of a feedback mechanism that couples NE expansion with NPC assembly.

Recruitment of functionally distinct membrane proteins to chromatin mediates nuclear envelope formation in vivo

Formation of the nuclear envelope (NE) around segregated chromosomes occurs by the reshaping of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), a reservoir for disassembled nuclear membrane components during mitosis. In this study, we show that inner nuclear membrane proteins such as lamin B receptor (LBR), MAN1, Lap2beta, and the trans-membrane nucleoporins Ndc1 and POM121 drive the spreading of ER membranes into the emerging NE via their capacity to bind chromatin in a collaborative manner. Despite their redundant functions, decreasing the levels of any of these trans-membrane proteins by RNAi-mediated knockdown delayed NE formation, whereas increasing the levels of any of them had the opposite effect. Furthermore, acceleration of NE formation interferes with chromosome separation during mitosis, indicating that the time frame over which chromatin becomes membrane enclosed is physiologically relevant and regulated. These data suggest that functionally distinct classes of chromatin-interacting membrane proteins, which are present at nonsaturating levels, collaborate to rapidly reestablish the nuclear compartment at the end of mitosis.

Nuclear envelope-limited chromatin sheets (ELCS) and heterochromatin higher order structure

The interphase nucleus and nuclear envelope can acquire a myriad of shapes in normal or pathological cell states. There exist a wide variety of indentations and invaginations, of protrusions and evaginations. It has been difficult to classify and name all of these nuclear shapes and, consequently, a barrier to understanding the biochemical and biophysical causes. This review focuses upon one type of nuclear envelope shape change, named "nuclear envelope-limited chromatin sheets" (ELCS), which appears to involve exaggerated nuclear envelope growth, carrying with it one or more layers of approximately 30 nm diameter heterochromatin. A hypothesis on the formation of ELCS is proposed, relating higher order heterochromatin structure in an interphase nucleus, nuclear envelope growth, and nuclear envelope-heterochromatin interactions.

Expression and functional analyses of circadian genes in mouse oocytes and preimplantation embryos: Cry1 is involved in the meiotic process independently of circadian clock regulation

In mammals, circadian genes, Clock, Arntl (also known as Bmal1), Cry1, Cry2, Per1, Per2, and Per3, are rhythmically transcribed every 24 h in almost all organs and tissues to tick the circadian clock. However, their expression and function in oocytes and preimplantation embryos have not been investigated. In this study we found that the circadian clock may stop in mouse oocytes and preimplantation embryos. Real-time PCR analysis revealed the presence of transcripts of these genes in both oocytes and preimplantation embryos; however, their amounts did not oscillate every 24 h in one- to four-cell and blastocyst-stage embryos. Moreover, immunofluorescence analyses revealed that CLOCK, ARNTL, and CRY1 were localized similarly in the nuclei of germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes and one-cell- to four-cell-stage embryos. Because CRY1 is known to interact with the CLOCK-ARNTL complex to suppress transcription-promoting activity of the complex for genes such as Wee1, Cry2, Per1, Per2, and Per3 in cells having the ticking circadian clock, we hypothesized that if the circadian clock functions in GV oocytes and one-cell- to four-cell-stage embryos, CLOCK, ARNTL, and CRY1 might suppress the transcription of these genes in GV oocytes and one-cell- to 4-cell-stage embryos as well. As a result, knockdown of CRY1 in GV oocytes by RNA interference did not affect the transcription levels of Wee1, Cry2, Per1, Per2, and Per3, but it reduced maturation ability. Thus, it seems that circadian genes are not involved in circadian clock regulation in mouse oocytes and preimplantation embryos but are involved in physiologies, such as meiosis.

Effects of heat shock on the distribution and expression levels of nuclear proteins in HeLa S3 cells

Cumulating evidence has led to the idea that nuclear functions such as DNA replication, RNA transcription, RNA splicing and nucleocytoplasmic transport are facilitated by a proteinaceous architectural framework within the nuclear compartment and at the nuclear envelope. In the present study, we have used immunofluorescence microscopy and quantitative Western blotting to compare the distribution and expression levels of several nuclear proteins during the response of HeLa S3 cells to both mild and severe hyperthermia. Cells were exposed to mild (42 degrees C) or severe (45 degrees C) hyperthermia treatment for 90 min and left to recover at 37 degrees C for 1-25 h. The cell response was monitored immediately after the heat stress and at different time intervals during the recovery period. Our observations indicate that inner nuclear membrane proteins, LAP2beta and emerin, as well as major components of the nuclear lamina, lamins A/C and lamin B1, maintain an overall normal distribution at the nuclear periphery throughout the cell response to mild or severe hyperthermia. The response was nevertheless characterized by significant changes in the expression levels of emerin following recovery from a mild stress and of lamin B1 after recovery from a severe stress. Our results also provide evidence that the organization of functional domains within the nuclear interior such as nucleoli and splicing speckles differs between cells responding to a mild or a severe stress. Mild hyperthermia was accompanied by a significant decrease in the expression level of the nucleolar protein 2H12 whereas severe hyperthermia was characterized by a reduction in the expression of the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling protein 2A7. Our data underline the complexity of nuclear function/structure relationships and the needs for a better understanding of protein-protein interactions within the nuclear compartment.

The epigenetics of nuclear envelope organization and disease

Mammalian chromosomes and some specific genes have non-random positions within the nucleus that are tissue-specific and heritable. Work in many organisms has shown that genes at the nuclear periphery tend to be inactive and altering their partitioning to the interior results in their activation. Proteins of the nuclear envelope can recruit chromatin with specific epigenetic marks and can also recruit silencing factors that add new epigenetic modifications to chromatin sequestered at the periphery. Together these findings indicate that the nuclear envelope is a significant epigenetic regulator. The importance of this function is emphasized by observations of aberrant distribution of peripheral heterochromatin in several human diseases linked to mutations in NE proteins. These debilitating inherited diseases range from muscular dystrophies to the premature aging progeroid syndromes and the heterochromatin changes are just one early clue for understanding the molecular details of how they work. The architecture of the nuclear envelope provides a unique environment for epigenetic regulation and as such a great deal of research will be required before we can ascertain the full range of its contributions to epigenetics.

Granulocytic nuclear differentiation of lamin B receptor-deficient mouse EPRO cells

OBJECTIVE

Lamin B receptor (LBR) is an integral protein of the inner nuclear membrane. Recent studies have demonstrated that genetic deficiency of LBR during granulopoiesis results in hypolobulation of the mature neutrophil nucleus, as observed in human Pelger-Huët anomaly and mouse ichthyosis (ic). In this study, we utilized differentiated early promyelocytes (EPRO cells) that were derived from the bone marrow of homozygous and heterozygous ichthyosis mice to examine changes to the expression of nuclear envelope proteins and heterochromatin structure that result from deficient LBR expression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Wild-type (+/+), heterozygous (+/ic), and homozygous (ic/ic) granulocytic forms of EPRO cells were analyzed for the expression of multiple lamins and inner nuclear envelope proteins by immunostaining and immunoblotting techniques. The heterochromatin architecture was also examined by immunostaining for histone lysine methylation.

RESULTS

Wild-type (+/+) and heterozygous (+/ic) granulocytic forms revealed ring-shaped nuclei and contained LBR within the nuclear envelope; ic/ic granulocytes exhibited smaller ovoid nuclei devoid of LBR. The pericentric heterochromatin of undifferentiated and granulocytic ic/ic cells was condensed into larger spots and shifted away from the nuclear envelope, compared to +/+ and +/ic cell forms. Lamin A/C, which is normally not present in mature granulocytes, was significantly elevated in LBR-deficient EPRO cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our observations suggest roles for LBR during granulopoiesis, which can involve augmenting nuclear membrane growth, facilitating compartmentalization of heterochromatin, and promoting downregulation of lamin A/C expression.

Live cell imaging and electron microscopy reveal dynamic processes of BAF-directed nuclear envelope assembly

Assembly of the nuclear envelope (NE) in telophase is essential for higher eukaryotic cells to re-establish a functional nucleus. Time-lapse, FRAP and FRET analyses in human cells showed that barrier-to-autointegration factor (BAF), a DNA-binding protein, assembled first at the distinct ;core' region of the telophase chromosome and formed an immobile complex by directly binding with other core-localizing NE proteins, such as lamin A and emerin. Correlative light and electron microscopy after live cell imaging, further showed that BAF formed an electron-dense structure on the chromosome surface of the core, close to spindle microtubules (MTs) prior to the attachment of precursor NE membranes, suggesting that MTs may mediate core assembly of BAF. Disruption of the spindle MTs consistently abolished BAF accumulation at the core. In addition, RNAi of BAF eliminated the core assembly of lamin A and emerin, caused abnormal cytoplasmic accumulation of precursor nuclear membranes and resulted in a significant delay of NE assembly. These results suggest that the MT-mediated BAF accumulation at the core facilitates NE assembly at the end of mitosis.

Capture of AT-rich chromatin by ELYS recruits POM121 and NDC1 to initiate nuclear pore assembly

Assembly of the nuclear pore, gateway to the genome, from its component subunits is a complex process. In higher eukaryotes, nuclear pore assembly begins with the binding of ELYS/MEL-28 to chromatin and recruitment of the large critical Nup107-160 pore subunit. The choreography of steps that follow is largely speculative. Here, we set out to molecularly define early steps in nuclear pore assembly, beginning with chromatin binding. Point mutation analysis indicates that pore assembly is exquisitely sensitive to the change of only two amino acids in the AT-hook motif of ELYS. The dependence on AT-rich chromatin for ELYS binding is borne out by the use of two DNA-binding antibiotics. AT-binding Distamycin A largely blocks nuclear pore assembly, whereas GC-binding Chromomycin A(3) does not. Next, we find that recruitment of vesicles containing the key integral membrane pore proteins POM121 and NDC1 to the forming nucleus is dependent on chromatin-bound ELYS/Nup107-160 complex, whereas recruitment of gp210 vesicles is not. Indeed, we reveal an interaction between the cytoplasmic domain of POM121 and the Nup107-160 complex. Our data thus suggest an order for nuclear pore assembly of 1) AT-rich chromatin sites, 2) ELYS, 3) the Nup107-160 complex, and 4) POM121- and NDC1-containing membrane vesicles and/or sheets, followed by (5) assembly of the bulk of the remaining soluble pore subunits.

Nuclear pore complex assembly through the cell cycle: regulation and membrane organization

In eukaryotes, all macromolecules traffic between the nucleus and the cytoplasm through nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), which are among the largest supramolecular assemblies in cells. Although their composition in yeast and metazoa is well characterized, understanding how NPCs are assembled and form the pore through the double membrane of the nuclear envelope and how both processes are controlled still remains a challenge. Here, we summarize what is known about the biogenesis of NPCs throughout the cell cycle with special focus on the membrane reorganization and the regulation that go along with NPC assembly.

Biology and biophysics of the nuclear pore complex and its components

Nucleocytoplasmic exchange of proteins and ribonucleoprotein particles occurs via nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) that reside in the double membrane of the nuclear envelope (NE). Significant progress has been made during the past few years in obtaining better structural resolution of the three-dimensional architecture of NPC with the help of cryo-electron tomography and atomic structures of domains from nuclear pore proteins (nucleoporins). Biophysical and imaging approaches have helped elucidate how nucleoporins act as a selective barrier in nucleocytoplasmic transport. Nucleoporins act not only in trafficking of macromolecules but also in proper microtubule attachment to kinetochores, in the regulation of gene expression and signaling events associated with, for example, innate and adaptive immunity, development and neurodegenerative disorders. Recent research has also been focused on the dynamic processes of NPC assembly and disassembly that occur with each cell cycle. Here we review emerging results aimed at understanding the molecular arrangement of the NPC and how it is achieved, defining the roles of individual nucleoporins both at the NPC and at other sites within the cell, and finally deciphering how the NPC serves as both a barrier and a conduit of active transport.

Brd4 recruits P-TEFb to chromosomes at late mitosis to promote G1 gene expression and cell cycle progression

Brd4, a bromodomain protein capable of interacting with acetylated histones, is implicated in transmitting epigenetic memory through mitosis. It also functions as an associated factor and positive regulator of P-TEFb, a Cdk9-cyclin T1 heterodimer that stimulates transcriptional elongation by phosphorylating RNA polymerase II. In the present study, experiments were performed to determine whether these two functions of Brd4 are interrelated and, if so, how they may impact cell cycle progression. Our data demonstrate that while the P-TEFb level remains constant, the Brd4-P-TEFb interaction increases dramatically in cells progressing from late mitosis to early G(1). Concurrently, P-TEFb is recruited to chromosomes, beginning around mid- to late anaphase and before nuclear envelope/lamina formation and nuclear import of other general transcription factors. Importantly, the recruitment of P-TEFb depends on Brd4. Abrogation of this process through Brd4 knockdown reduces the binding of P-TEFb to and expression of key G(1) and growth-associated genes, leading to G(1) cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Because P-TEFb is synonymous with productive elongation, its recruitment by Brd4 to chromosomes at late mitosis may indicate those genes whose active transcription status must be preserved across cell division.

A novel role for the nuclear membrane protein emerin in association of the centrosome to the outer nuclear membrane

The type II inner nuclear membrane protein emerin is a component of the LINC complex that connects the nuclear lamina to the actin cytoskeleton. In emerin-null or -deficient human dermal fibroblasts we find that the centrosome is detached from the nucleus. Moreover, following siRNA knockdown of emerin in wild-type fibroblasts, the centrosome also becomes detached from the nucleus. We show that emerin interacts with tubulin, and that nocadozole-treated wild-type cells phenocopy the detached centrosome characteristic of emerin-null/deficient cells. We also find that a significant fraction of emerin is located at the outer nuclear membrane and peripheral ER, where it interacts directly with the centrosome. Our data provide the first evidence in mammalian cells as to the nature of the linkage of the centrosome, and therefore the tubulin cytoskeleton, with the outer nuclear membrane.

Histone Acetyltransferase hALP and Nuclear Membrane Protein hsSUN1 Function in De-condensation of Mitotic Chromosomes

Replicated mammalian chromosomes condense to segregate during anaphase, and they de-condense at the conclusion of mitosis. Currently, it is not understood what the factors and events are that specify de-condensation. Here, we demonstrate that chromosome de-condensation needs the function of an inner nuclear membrane (INM) protein hsSUN1 and a membrane-associated histone acetyltransferase (HAT), hALP. We propose that nascently reforming nuclear envelope employs hsSUN1 and hALP to acetylate histones for de-compacting DNA at the end of mitosis.

Perinuclear and nuclear envelope localizations of Arabidopsis Ran proteins

Using phragmoplastin-interacting protein 1 (PhrIP1) as bait, we isolated an Arabidopsis cDNA encoding Ran2, a small Ras-like GTP-binding protein. The interaction between PhrIP1 and Ran2 was confirmed by an in vitro protein-protein interaction assay with purified Ran2 and PhrIP1. The plant Ran2 shares high sequence homology, 78 and 86% at the amino acid level, with human Ran/TC4 and C. elegans Ran, respectively. Our results obtained from enzyme assays and Western blot analysis show that Ran2 has intrinsic GTPase activity and is present in the soluble fraction of Arabidopsis seedling extract. Fluorescent microscopy using anti-Ran2 antibody revealed that the Ran protein is localized in the perinuclear region with the highest concentration at the nuclear envelope. In contrast to its animal counterparts that are present in the nucleoplasm, the Ran protein is absent inside the nucleus. These results suggest that plant Ran proteins may be involved in mediation of nucleocytoplasmic transport and assembly of the nuclear envelope after karyokinesis in plant cells.

Anchorage of Plant RanGAP to the Nuclear Envelope Involves Novel Nuclear-Pore-Associated Proteins

The Ran GTPase controls multiple cellular processes including nucleocytoplasmic transport, spindle assembly, and nuclear envelope (NE) formation [1-4]. Its roles are accomplished by the asymmetric distribution of RanGTP and RanGDP enabled by the specific locations of the Ran GTPase-activating protein RanGAP and the nucleotide exchange factor RCC1 [5-8]. Mammalian RanGAP1 targeting to the NE and kinetochores requires interaction of its sumoylated C-terminal domain with the nucleoporin Nup358/RanBP2 [9-14]. In contrast, Arabidopsis RanGAP1 is associated with the NE and cell plate, mediated by an N-terminal, plant-specific WPP domain [15-18]. In the absence of RanBP2 in plants, the mechanism for spatially sequestering plant RanGAP is unknown. Here, Arabidopsis WPP-domain interacting proteins (WIPs) that interact with RanGAP1 in vivo and colocalize with RanGAP1 at the NE and cell plate were identified. Immunogold labeling indicates that WIP1 is associated with the outer NE. In a wip1-1/wip2-1/wip3-1 triple mutant, RanGAP1 is dislocated from the NE in undifferentiated root-tip cells, whereas NE targeting in differentiated root cells and targeting to the cell plate remain intact. We propose that WIPs are novel plant nucleoporins involved in RanGAP1 NE anchoring in specific cell types. Our data support a separate evolution of RanGAP targeting mechanisms in different kingdoms.

Nuclear localization of barrier-to-autointegration factor is correlated with progression of S phase in human cells

Barrier-to-autointegration factor (BAF) is a conserved metazoan protein that plays a critical role in retrovirus infection. To elucidate its role in uninfected cells, we first examined the localization of BAF in both mortal and immortal or cancerous human cell lines. In mortal cell lines (e.g. TIG-1, WI-38 and IMR-90 cells) BAF localization depended on the age of the cell, localizing primarily in the nucleus of >90% of young proliferating cells but only 20-25% of aged senescent cells. In immortal cell lines (e.g. HeLa, SiHa and HT1080 cells) BAF showed heterogeneous localization between the nucleus and cytoplasm. This heterogeneity was lost when the cells were synchronized in S phase. In S-phase-synchronized populations, the percentage of cells with predominantly nuclear BAF increased from 30% (asynchronous controls) to ∼80%. In HeLa cells, RNAi-induced downregulation of BAF significantly increased the proportion of early S-phase cells that retained high levels of cyclin D3 and cyclin E expression and slowed progression through early S phase. BAF downregulation also caused lamin A to mislocalize away from the nuclear envelope. These results indicate that BAF is required for the integrity of the nuclear lamina and normal progression of S phase in human cells.

Nuclear envelope precursor vesicle targeting to chromatin is stimulated by protein phosphatase 1 in Xenopus egg extracts

The mechanism underlying targeting of the nuclear membrane to chromatin at the end of mitosis was studied using an in vitro cell-free system comprising Xenopus egg membrane and cytosol fractions, and sperm chromatin. The mitotic phase membrane, which was separated from a mitotic phase extract of Xenopus eggs and could not bind to chromatin, became able to bind to chromatin on pretreatment with a synthetic phase cytosol fraction of Xenopus eggs. When the cytosol fraction was depleted of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) with anti-Xenopus PP1gamma1 antibodies, this ability was lost. The addition of recombinant xPP1gamma1 to the PP1-depleted cytosol fraction restored the ability. These and other results suggested that dephosphorylation of mitotic phosphorylation sites on membranes by PP1 in the synthetic phase cytosol fraction promoted targeting of the membranes to chromatin. On the other hand, a fragment containing the chromatin-binding domain of lamin B receptor (LBR) but not emerin inhibited targeting of membrane vesicles. It was also shown that PP1 dephosphorylates a phosphate group(s) responsible for regulation of the binding of LBR to chromatin. A possible mechanism involving PP1 and LBR for the regulation of nuclear membrane targeting to chromatin was discussed.

What can Caenorhabditis elegans tell us about the nuclear envelope?

The nuclear envelope (NE) of the eukaryotic cell provides an essential barrier that separates the nuclear compartment from the cytoplasm. In addition, the NE is involved in essential functions such as nuclear stability, regulation of gene expression, centrosome separation and nuclear migration and positioning. In metazoa the NE breaks down and re-assembles around the segregated chromatids during each cell division. In this review we discuss the molecular constituents of the Caenorhabditis elegans NE and describe their role in post-mitotic NE re-formation, as well as the usefulness of C. elegans as an in vivo system for analyzing NE dynamics.

Proteins that associate with lamins: many faces, many functions

Lamin-associated polypeptides (LAPs) comprise inner nuclear membrane proteins tightly associated with the peripheral lamin scaffold as well as proteins forming stable complexes with lamins in the nucleoplasm. The involvement of LAPs in a wide range of human diseases may be linked to an equally bewildering range of their functions, including sterol reduction, histone modification, transcriptional repression, and Smad- and beta-catenin signaling. Many LAPs are likely to be at the center of large multi-protein complexes, components of which may dictate their functions, and a few LAPs have defined enzymatic activities. Here we discuss the definition of LAPs, review their many binding partners, elaborate their functions in nuclear architecture, chromatin organization, gene expression and signaling, and describe what is currently known about their links to human disease.

A comparative proteome analysis of human metaphase chromosomes isolated from two different cell lines reveals a set of conserved chromosome-associated proteins

A comparative proteome analysis of human metaphase chromosomes between a typical epithelial-like cell, HeLa S3, and a lymphoma-type cell, BALL-1, was performed. One-dimensional (1-D) SDS-PAGE and radical-free and highly reducing two-dimensional electrophoresis (RFHR 2-DE) detected more than 200 proteins from chromosomes isolated from HeLa S3 cells, among which 189 proteins were identified by mass spectrometry (MS). Consistent with our recent four-layer structural model of a metaphase chromosome, all the identified proteins were grouped into four distinct levels of abundance. Both HeLa S3 and BALL-1 chromosomes contained specific sets of abundant chromosome structural and peripheral proteins in addition to less abundant chromosome coating proteins (CCPs). Furthermore, titin array analysis and a proteome analysis of the ultra-high molecular mass region indicated an absence of titin with their molecular weight (MW) more than 1000 kDa. Consequently, the present proteome analyses together with previous information on chromosome proteins provide the comprehensive list of proteins essential for the metaphase chromosome architecture.

The karyopherin Kap95 regulates nuclear pore complex assembly into intact nuclear envelopes in vivo

Nuclear pore complex (NPC) assembly in interphase cells requires that new NPCs insert into an intact nuclear envelope (NE). Our previous work identified the Ran GTPase as an essential component in this process. We proposed that Ran is required for targeting assembly factors to the cytoplasmic NE face via a novel, vesicular intermediate. Although the molecular target was not identified, Ran is known to function by modulating protein interactions for karyopherin (Kap) beta family members. Here we characterize loss-of-function Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutants in KAP95 with blocks in NPC assembly. Similar to defects in Ran cycle mutants, nuclear pore proteins are no longer localized properly to the NE in kap95 mutants. Also like Ran cycle mutants, the kap95-E126K mutant displayed enhanced lethality with nic96 and nup170 mutants. Thus, Kap95 and Ran are likely functioning at the same stage in assembly. However, although Ran cycle mutants accumulate small cytoplasmic vesicles, cells depleted of Kap95 accumulated long stretches of cytoplasmic membranes and had highly distorted NEs. We conclude that Kap95 serves as a key regulator of NPC assembly into intact NEs. Furthermore, both Kap95 and Ran may provide spatial cues necessary for targeting of vesicular intermediates in de novo NPC assembly.

Cell-cycle-dependent dynamics of nuclear pores: pore-free islands and lamins

Nuclear pores are sophisticated gateways on the nuclear envelope that control macromolecular transport between the cytoplasm and nucleoplasm. So far the structural and functional aspects of nuclear pores have been extensively studied, but their distribution and density, which might reflect nuclear organization and function, remain unknown. Here, we report the cell-cycle-dependent dynamics of nuclear pores. Large distinct subdomains lacking nuclear pores are present on the nuclear surface of HeLaS3 cells in early cell-cycle stages. Such `pore-free islands' gradually become dispersed in G1-S phase. Surprisingly, the islands are enriched with inner nuclear membrane proteins lamin A/C and emerin, but exclude lamin B. Lamin-A/C-enriched pore-free islands were also observed in human normal diploid fibroblasts and several cell lines, showing the generality of this phenomenon. Knockdown and ectopic expression analyses demonstrated that lamin A/C, but not emerin, plays an essential structural and regulatory role in the nuclear pore distribution and the formation of pore-free islands. These data thus provide strong evidence that the dynamics of nuclear pores are regulated by the reorganization of inner nuclear structures.

Direct membrane protein-DNA interactions required early in nuclear envelope assembly

Among the earliest events in postmitotic nuclear envelope (NE) assembly are the interactions between chromatin and the membranes that will fuse to form the NE.

It has been proposed that interactions between integral NE proteins and chromatin proteins mediate initial membrane recruitment to chromatin. We show that several transmembrane NE proteins bind to DNA directly and that NE membrane proteins as a class are enriched in long, basic domains that potentially bind DNA. Membrane fractions that are essential for NE formation are shown to bind directly to protein-free DNA, and our data suggest that these interactions are critical for early steps in NE assembly.

Nuclear Lamins: Laminopathies and Their Role in Premature Ageing

It has been demonstrated that nuclear lamins are important proteins in maintaining cellular as well as nuclear integrity, and in maintaining chromatin organization in the nucleus. Moreover, there is growing evidence that lamins play a prominent role in transcriptional control. The family of laminopathies is a fast-growing group of diseases caused by abnormalities in the structure or processing of the lamin A/C ( LMNA) gene. Mutations or incorrect processing cause more than a dozen different inherited diseases, ranging from striated muscular diseases, via fat- and peripheral nerve cell diseases, to progeria. This broad spectrum of diseases can only be explained if the responsible A-type lamin proteins perform multiple functions in normal cells. This review gives an overview of current knowledge on lamin structure and function and all known diseases associated with LMNA abnormalities. Based on the knowledge of the different functions of A-type lamins and associated proteins, explanations for the observed phenotypes are postulated. It is concluded that lamins seem to be key players in, among others, controlling the process of cellular ageing, since disturbance in lamin protein structure gives rise to several forms of premature ageing.

Dual location of MAR-binding, filament-like protein 1 in Arabidopsis, tobacco, and tomato

Matrix attachment region-binding filament-like protein 1 (MFP1) is a plant-specific long coiled-coil protein that binds double-stranded DNA. While originally identified as a component of the tobacco nuclear matrix, it was subsequently shown that the majority of MFP1 resides in mature chloroplast where it is located at the stroma side of the thylakoids and is able to bind to nucleoids. On the other hand, a 90 kDa MFP1-like protein from onion has been convincingly shown to be an intrinsic component of the onion meristematic nuclear matrix. Here, we have expanded the analysis of the subcellular location of MFP1 by using high-resolution confocal immunofluorescence microscopy and immunogold electron microscopy. Two different antisera raised against MFP1 from two species were used on isolated nuclei and chloroplasts from tomato, tobacco, and Arabidopsis. Our data show that both antibodies detect a signal in both compartments in all three species. An Arabidopsis MFP1 T-DNA insertional mutation abolishes both nuclear and chloroplast signals, indicating that the nuclear and plastidic antigens are derived from the same gene. We therefore suggest that MFP1 is a protein with a dual location, in both nuclei and chloroplasts, consistent with prior findings in onion and the dicot species investigated here.

Dissociation of Emerin from Barrier-to-autointegration Factor Is Regulated through Mitotic Phosphorylation of Emerin in a Xenopus Egg Cell-free System

Emerin is the gene product of STA whose mutations cause Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy. It is an inner nuclear membrane protein and phosphorylated in a cell cycle-dependent manner. However, the means of phosphorylation of emerin are poorly understood. We investigated the regulation mechanism for the binding of emerin to chromatin, focusing on its cell cycle-dependent phosphorylation in a Xenopus egg cell-free system. It was shown that emerin dissociates from chromatin depending on mitotic phosphorylation of the former, and this plays a critical role in the dissociation of emerin from barrier-to-autointegration factor (BAF). Then, we analyzed the mitotic phosphorylation sites of emerin. Emerin was strongly phosphorylated in an M-phase Xenopus egg cell-free system, and five phosphorylated sites, Ser49, Ser66, Thr67, Ser120, and Ser175, were identified on analysis of chymotryptic and tryptic emerin peptides using a phosphopeptide-concentrating system coupled with a Titansphere column, which specifically binds phosphopeptides, and tandem mass spectrometry sequencing. An in vitro binding assay involving an emerin S175A point mutant protein suggested that phosphorylation at Ser175 regulates the dissociation of emerin from BAF.

Versatility at the nuclear pore complex: lessons learned from the nucleoporin Nup153

The vertebrate pore protein Nup153 plays pivotal roles in nuclear pore function. In addition to being important to pore architecture, Nup153 is a key participant in both import and export. The scope of Nup153 function also extends beyond the canonical view of the pore as a trafficking gateway. During the transition into mitosis, Nup153 directs proteins involved in membrane remodeling to the nuclear envelope. As cells exit mitosis, Nup153 is recruited to the chromosomal surface, where nuclear pores are formed anew in a complicated process still under much experimental scrutiny. In addition, Nup153 is targeted for protease cleavage during apoptosis and in response to certain viral infections, providing molecular insight into pore reconfiguration during cell response. Overall, the versatile nature of Nup153 underscores an emerging view of the nuclear pore at the nexus of many key cellular processes.

PUSHING THE ENVELOPE: Structure, Function, and Dynamics of the Nuclear Periphery

The nuclear envelope (NE) is a highly specialized membrane that delineates the eukaryotic cell nucleus. It is composed of the inner and outer nuclear membranes, nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) and, in metazoa, the lamina. The NE not only regulates the trafficking of macromolecules between nucleoplasm and cytosol but also provides anchoring sites for chromatin and the cytoskeleton. Through these interactions, the NE helps position the nucleus within the cell and chromosomes within the nucleus, thereby regulating the expression of certain genes. The NE is not static, rather it is continuously remodeled during cell division. The most dramatic example of NE reorganization occurs during mitosis in metazoa when the NE undergoes a complete cycle of disassembly and reformation. Despite the importance of the NE for eukaryotic cell life, relatively little is known about its biogenesis or many of its functions. We thus are far from understanding the molecular etiology of a diverse group of NE-associated diseases.

Dynamics of nuclear pore complex organization through the cell cycle

In eukaryotic cells, all macromolecules that traffic between the nucleus and the cytoplasm cross the double nuclear membrane through nuclear pore complexes (NPCs). NPCs are elaborate gateways that allow efficient, yet selective, translocation of many different macromolecules. Their protein composition has been elucidated, but how exactly these nucleoporins come together to form the pore is largely unknown. Recent data suggest that NPCs are composed of an extremely stable scaffold on which more dynamic, exchangeable parts are assembled. These could be targets for molecular rearrangements that change nuclear pore transport properties and, ultimately, the state of the cell.

Nup155 regulates nuclear envelope and nuclear pore complex formation in nematodes and vertebrates

Nuclear envelope (NE) formation during cell division in multicellular organisms is a central yet poorly understood biological process. We report that the conserved nucleoporin Nup155 has an essential function in NE formation in Caenorhabditis elegans embryos and in Xenopus laevis egg extracts. In vivo depletion of Nup155 led to failure of nuclear lamina formation and defects in chromosome segregation at anaphase. Nup155 depletion inhibited accumulation of nucleoporins at the nuclear periphery, including those recruited to chromatin early in NE formation. Electron microscopy analysis revealed that Nup155 is also required for the formation of a continuous nuclear membrane in vivo and in vitro. Time-course experiments indicated that Nup155 is recruited to chromatin at the time of NE sealing, suggesting that nuclear pore complex assembly has to progress to a relatively late stage before NE membrane assembly occurs.

Dissociation of heterochromatin protein 1 from lamin B receptor induced by human polyomavirus agnoprotein: role in nuclear egress of viral particles

The nuclear envelope is one of the chief obstacles to the translocation of macromolecules that are larger than the diameter of nuclear pores. Heterochromatin protein 1 (HP1) bound to the lamin B receptor (LBR) is thought to contribute to reassembly of the nuclear envelope after cell division. Human polyomavirus agnoprotein (Agno) has been shown to bind to HP1alpha and to induce its dissociation from LBR, resulting in destabilization of the nuclear envelope. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching showed that Agno increased the lateral mobility of LBR in the inner nuclear membrane. Biochemical and immunofluorescence analyses showed that Agno is targeted to the nuclear envelope and facilitates the nuclear egress of polyomavirus-like particles. These results indicate that dissociation of HP1alpha from LBR and consequent perturbation of the nuclear envelope induced by polyomavirus Agno promote the translocation of virions out of the nucleus.

Dynamic interaction between BAF and emerin revealed by FRAP, FLIP, and FRET analyses in living HeLa cells

Barrier-to-autointegration factor (BAF) is a conserved 10 kDa DNA-binding protein. BAF interacts with LEM-domain proteins including emerin, LAP2 beta, and MAN1 in the inner nuclear membrane. Using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) and fluorescence loss in photobleaching (FLIP), we compared the mobility of BAF to its partners emerin, LAP2 beta, and MAN1 in living HeLa cells. Like endogenous BAF, GFP-BAF was enriched at the nuclear envelope, and found inside the nucleus and in the cytoplasm during interphase. At every location, FRAP and FLIP analysis showed that GFP-BAF diffused rapidly; the halftimes for recovery in a 0.8 microm square area were 260 ms at the nuclear envelope, and even faster inside the nucleus and in the cytoplasm. GFP-fused emerin, LAP2 beta, and MAN1 were all relatively immobile, with recovery halftimes of about 1 min, for a 2 microm square area. Thus, BAF is dynamic and mobile during interphase, in stark contrast to its nuclear envelope partners. FLIP results further showed that rapidly diffusing cytoplasmic and nuclear pools of GFP-BAF were distinctly regulated, with nuclear GFP-BAF unable to replenish cytoplasmic BAF. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) results showed that CFP-BAF binds directly to YFP-emerin at the inner nuclear membrane of living cells. We propose a "touch-and-go" model in which BAF binds emerin frequently but transiently during interphase. These findings contrast with the slow mobility of both GFP-BAF and GFP-emerin during telophase, when they colocalized at the 'core' region of telophase chromosomes at early stages of nuclear assembly.

Breaking and making of the nuclear envelope

During mitosis, a single nucleus gives rise to two nuclei that are identical to the parent nucleus. Mitosis consists of a continuous sequence of events that must be carried out once and only once. Two such important events are the disassembly of the nuclear envelope (NE) during the first stages of mitosis, and its accurate reassembly during the last stages of mitosis. NE breakdown (NEBD) is initiated when maturation-promoting factor (MPF) enters the nucleus and starts phosphorylating nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) and nuclear lamina proteins, followed by NPC and lamina breakdown. Nuclear reassembly starts when nuclear membranes assemble onto the chromatin. This article focuses on the different models of NEBD and reassembly with emphasis on recent data.

Nuclear envelope, nuclear lamina, and inherited disease

The nuclear envelope is composed of the nuclear membranes, nuclear lamina, and nuclear pore complexes. In recent years, mutations in nuclear-envelope proteins have been shown to cause a surprisingly wide array of inherited diseases. While the mutant proteins are generally expressed in most or all differentiated somatic cells, many mutations cause fairly tissue-specific disorders. Perhaps the most dramatic case is that of mutations in A-type lamins, intermediate filament proteins associated with the inner nuclear membrane. Different mutations in the same lamin proteins have been shown to cause striated muscle diseases, partial lipodystrophy syndromes, a peripheral neuropathy, and disorders with features of severe premature aging. In this review, we summarize fundamental aspects of nuclear envelope structure and function, the inherited diseases caused by mutations in lamins and other nuclear envelope proteins, and possible pathogenic mechanisms.

LAP2α and BAF transiently localize to telomeres and specific regions on chromatin during nuclear assembly

Lamina-associated polypeptide (LAP) 2α is a LEM (lamina-associated polypeptide emerin MAN1) family protein associated with nucleoplasmic A-type lamins and chromatin. Using live cell imaging and fluorescence microscopy we demonstrate that LAP2α was mostly cytoplasmic in metaphase and associated with telomeres in anaphase. Telomeric LAP2α clusters grew in size, formed `core' structures on chromatin adjacent to the spindle in telophase, and translocated to the nucleoplasm in G1 phase. A subfraction of lamin C and emerin followed LAP2α to the core region early on, whereas LAP2β, lamin B receptor and lamin B initially bound to more peripheral regions of chromatin, before they spread to core structures with different kinetics. Furthermore, the DNA-crosslinking protein barrier-to-autointegration factor (BAF) bound to LAP2α in vitro and in mitotic extracts, and subfractions of BAF relocalized to core structures with LAP2α. We propose that LAP2α and a subfraction of BAF form defined complexes in chromatin core regions and may be involved in chromatin reorganization during early stages of nuclear assembly.

Construction, characterization, and complementation of a conditional-lethal DNA topoisomerase IIalpha mutant human cell line

DNA Topoisomerase IIalpha (topoIIalpha) is a DNA decatenating enzyme, abundant constituent of mammalian mitotic chromosomes, and target of numerous antitumor drugs, but its exact role in chromosome structure and dynamics is unclear. In a powerful new approach to this important problem, with significant advantages over the use of topoII inhibitors or RNA interference, we have generated and characterized a human cell line (HTETOP) in which >99.5% topoIIalpha expression can be silenced in all cells by the addition of tetracycline. TopoIIalpha-depleted HTETOP cells enter mitosis and undergo chromosome condensation, albeit with delayed kinetics, but normal anaphases and cytokineses are completely prevented, and all cells die, some becoming polyploid in the process. Cells can be rescued by expression of topoIIalpha fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP), even when certain phosphorylation sites have been mutated, but not when the catalytic residue Y805 is mutated. Thus, in addition to validating GFP-tagged topoIIalpha as an indicator for endogenous topoIIalpha dynamics, our analyses provide new evidence that topoIIalpha plays a largely redundant role in chromosome condensation, but an essential catalytic role in chromosome segregation that cannot be complemented by topoIIbeta and does not require phosphorylation at serine residues 1106, 1247, 1354, or 1393.

Sun2 Is a Novel Mammalian Inner Nuclear Membrane Protein

Sun protein (Sun1 and Sun2) cDNAs were previously cloned based on the homology of their C-terminal regions (SUN (Sad1 and UNC) domain) with the Caenorhabditis elegans protein UNC-84 whose mutation disrupts nuclear migration/positioning. In this study, we raised an anti-Sun2 serum and identified Sun2 in mammalian cells. In HeLa cells, Sun2 displays a nuclear rim-like pattern typical for a nuclear envelope protein. The Sun2 antibody signal co-localizes with nuclear pore and INM markers signals. The rim-like pattern was also observed with the recombinant full-length Sun2 protein fused to either EGFP or V5 epitopes. In addition, we found that a recombinant truncated form of Sun2, extending from amino acids 26 to 339, is sufficient to specify the nuclear envelope localization. Biochemical analyses show that Sun2 is an 85-kDa protein that is partially insoluble in detergent with high salt concentration and in chaotropic agents. Furthermore, Sun2 is enriched in purified HeLa cell nuclei. Electron microscopy analysis shows that Sun2 localizes in the nuclear envelope with a sub-population present in small clusters. Additionally, we show that the SUN domain of Sun2 is localized to the periplasmic space between the inner and the outer nuclear membranes. From our data, we conclude that Sun2 is a new mammalian inner nuclear membrane protein. Because the SUN domain is conserved from fission yeast to mammals, we suggest that Sun2 belongs to a new class of nuclear envelope proteins with potential relevance to nuclear membrane function in the context of the involvement of its components in an increasing spectrum of human diseases.

Actin- and protein-4.1-containing filaments link nuclear pore complexes to subnuclear organelles inXenopusoocyte nuclei

We imaged the interiors of relatively intact Xenopus oocyte nuclei by field emission scanning electron microscopy (feSEM) and visualized a network of filaments that attach to nuclear pore complexes and extend throughout the nucleus. Within the nucleus, these `pore-linked filaments' (PLFs) were embedded into spherical structures 100 nm to ∼5 μm in diameter. A subset of spheres was identified as Cajal bodies by immuno-gold labeling; the rest were inferred to be nucleoli and snurposomes both of which are abundant in Xenopus oocyte nuclei. Most PLFs were independent of chromatin. The thickness of a typical PLF was 40 nm (range, ∼12-100 nm), including the 4 nm chromium coat. PLFs located inside the nucleus merged, bundled and forked, suggesting architectural adaptability. The PLF network collapsed upon treatment with latrunculin A, which depolymerizes actin filaments. Jasplakinolide, which stabilizes actin filaments, produced PLFs with more open substructure including individual filaments with evenly-spaced rows of radially projecting short filaments. Immuno-gold labeling of untreated oocyte nuclei showed that actin and protein 4.1 each localized on PLFs. Protein 4.1-gold epitopes were spaced at ∼120 nm intervals along filaments, and were often paired (∼70 nm apart) at filament junctions. We suggest that protein 4.1 and actin contribute to the structure of a network of heterogeneous filaments that link nuclear pore complexes to subnuclear organelles, and discuss possible functions for PLFs in nuclear assembly and intranuclear traffic.

Regulation of binding of lamin B receptor to chromatin by SR protein kinase and cdc2 kinase in Xenopus egg extracts

Participation of multiple kinases in regulation of the binding of lamin B receptor (LBR) to chromatin was suggested previously (Takano, M., Takeuchi, M., Ito, H., Furukawa, K., Sugimoto, K., Omata, S., and Horigome, T. (2002) Eur. J. Biochem. 269, 943-953). To identify these kinases, regulation of the binding of the nucleoplasmic region (NK, amino acid residues 1-211) of LBR to sperm chromatin was studied using a cell cycle-dependent Xenopus egg extract in vitro. The binding was stimulated on specific phosphorylation of the NK fragment by an S-phase egg extract. Protein depletion with beads bearing SF2/ASF, which binds SR protein kinases, abolished this stimulation, suggesting that an SR protein kinase(s) is responsible for the activation of LBR. This was confirmed by direct phosphorylation and activation with recombinant SR protein-specific kinase 1. The binding of the NK fragment to chromatin pretreated with an S-phase extract was suppressed by incubation with an M-phase extract. Enzyme inhibitor experiments revealed that multiple kinases participate in the suppression. One of these kinases was shown to be cdc2 kinase using a specific inhibitor, roscovitine, and protein depletion with beads bearing p13, which specifically binds cdc2 kinase. Experiments involving a mutant NK fragment showed that the phosphorylation of serine 71 by cdc2 kinase is responsible for the suppression.

Probing the precision of the mitotic clock with a live-cell fluorescent biosensor

Precise timing of mitosis is essential for high-fidelity cell duplication. However, temporal measurements of the mitotic clock have been challenging. Here we present a fluorescent mitosis biosensor that monitors the time between nuclear envelope breakdown (NEB) and re-formation using parallel total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy. By tracking tens to hundreds of mitotic events per experiment, we found that the mitotic clock of unsynchronized rat basophilic leukemia cells has a marked precision with 80% of cells completing mitosis in 32 +/- 6 min. This assay further allowed us to observe delays in mitotic timing at Taxol concentrations 100 times lower than previous minimal effective doses, explaining why Taxol is clinically active at low concentrations. Inactivation of the spindle checkpoint by targeting the regulator Mad2 with RNAi consistently shortened mitosis, providing direct evidence that the internal mitotic timing mechanism is much faster in cells that lack the checkpoint.

Cell cycle behavior of human HP1 subtypes: distinct molecular domains of HP1 are required for their centromeric localization during interphase and metaphase

Heterochromatin protein 1 (HP1) plays an important role in heterochromatin formation. Three subtypes of HP1, namely HP1alpha, beta, and gamma, have been identified in humans. In this study, using yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) fusion constructs, we examined the intracellular localization of human HP1 subtypes during the cell cycle. During interphase, all three HP1 subtypes were localized to centromeric heterochromatin and to promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear bodies. Different preferences, however, were observed among the subtypes: during interphase HP1beta localized most preferentially to centromeric heterochromatin, whereas HP1alpha and gamma were more preferentially localized to PML nuclear bodies. During metaphase, only HP1alpha, was localized to the centromere. We thus determined which molecular domains of HP1 were necessary for their intracellular localization. Our results showed that the C-terminal fragment (amino acid residues 101-180) of HP1alpha was necessary for localization to the metaphase centromere and the N-terminal fragment (amino acid residues 1-76) of HP1beta was necessary for localization to the interphase centromere. Interestingly, simultaneous observations of residues 101-180 of HP1alpha and residues 1-76 of HP1beta in living HeLa cells revealed that during late prophase, the HP1beta fragment dissociated from centromeric regions and the HP1alpha fragment accumulated in centromeric regions. These results indicate that different specific regions of human HP1alpha and HP1beta mediate localization to metaphase and interphase centromeric regions resulting in association of different subtypes of HP1 with the centromere at different times during the cell cycle.