Cik1 targets the minus-end kinesin depolymerase kar3 to microtubule plus ends

Evidence of kinesin motors involved in stable kinetochore assembly during early meiosis

During mitosis, the budding yeast, kinetochores remain attached to microtubules, except for a brief period during S phase. Sister-kinetochores separate into two clusters (bilobed organization) upon stable end-on attachment to microtubules emanating from opposite spindle poles. However, in meiosis, the outer kinetochore protein (Ndc80) reassembles at the centromeres much later after prophase I, establishing new kinetochore-microtubule attachments. Perhaps due to this, despite homolog bi-orientation, we observed that the Ndc80 are linearly dispersed between spindle poles during metaphase I of meiosis. The presence of end-on attachment marker Dam1 as a cluster near each pole suggests one of the other possibilities that the pole-proximal and pole-distal kinetochores are attached end-on and laterally to the microtubules, respectively. Colocalization studies of kinetochores and kinesin motors suggest that budding yeast kinesin 5, Cin8, and Kip1 perhaps localize to the end-on attached kinetochores while kinesin 8 and Kip3 resides at all the kinetochores. Our findings, including kinesin 5 and Ndc80 coappearance after prophase I and reduced Ndc80 levels in cin8 null mutant, suggest that kinesin motors are crucial for kinetochore reassembly and stability during early meiosis. Thus, this work reports yet another meiosis specific function of kinesin motors.

Key essential oil components delocalize Candida albicans Kar3p and impact microtubule structure

BACKGROUND

Treatment of Candida albicans associated infections is often ineffective in the light of resistance, with an urgent need to discover novel antimicrobials. Fungicides require high specificity and can contribute to antifungal resistance, so inhibition of fungal virulence factors is a good strategy for developing new antifungals.

OBJECTIVES

Examine the impact of four plant-derived essential oil components (1,8-cineole, α-pinene, eugenol, and citral) on C. albicans microtubules, kinesin motor protein Kar3 and morphology.

METHODS

Microdilution assays were used to determine minimal inhibitory concentrations, microbiological assays assessed germ tube, hyphal and biofilm formation, confocal microscopy probed morphological changes and localization of tubulin and Kar3p, and computational modelling was used to examine the theoretical binding of essential oil components to tubulin and Kar3p.

RESULTS

We show for the first time that essential oil components delocalize the Kar3p, ablate microtubules, and induce psuedohyphal formation with reduced biofilm formation. Single and double deletion mutants of kar3 were resistant to 1,8-cineole, sensitive to α-pinene and eugenol, but unimpacted by citral. Strains with homozygous and heterozygous Kar3p disruption had a gene-dosage effect for all essential oil components, resulting in enhanced resistance or susceptibility patterns that were identical to that of cik1 mutants. The link between microtubule (αβ-tubulin) and Kar3p defects was further supported by computational modeling, showing preferential binding to αβ-tubulin and Kar3p adjacent to their Mg²⁺-binding sites.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights how essential oil components interfere with the localization of the kinesin motor protein complex Kar3/Cik1 and disrupt microtubules, leading to their destabilization which results in hyphal and biofilm defects.

Yeast Kinesin-5 Motor Protein CIN8 Promotes Accurate Chromosome Segregation

Accurate chromosome segregation depends on bipolar chromosome–microtubule attachment and tension generation on chromosomes. Incorrect chromosome attachment results in chromosome missegregation, which contributes to genome instability. The kinetochore is a protein complex that localizes at the centromere region of a chromosome and mediates chromosome–microtubule interaction. Incorrect chromosome attachment leads to checkpoint activation to prevent anaphase onset. Kinetochore detachment activates the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), while tensionless kinetochore attachment relies on both the SAC and tension checkpoint. In budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, kinesin-5 motor proteins Cin8 and Kip1 are needed to separate spindle pole bodies for spindle assembly, and deletion of CIN8 causes lethality in the absence of SAC. To study the function of Cin8 and Kip1 in chromosome segregation, we constructed an auxin-inducible degron (AID) mutant, cin8-AID. With this conditional mutant, we first confirmed that cin8-AID kip1∆ double mutants were lethal when Cin8 is depleted in the presence of auxin. These cells arrested in metaphase with unseparated spindle pole bodies and kinetochores. We further showed that the absence of either the SAC or tension checkpoint was sufficient to abolish the cell-cycle delay in cin8-AID mutants, causing chromosome missegregation and viability loss. The tension checkpoint-dependent phenotype in cells with depleted Cin8 suggests the presence of tensionless chromosome attachment. We speculate that the failed spindle pole body separation in cin8 mutants could increase the chance of tensionless syntelic chromosome attachments, which depends on functional tension checkpoint for survival.

The EB1-Kinesin-14 complex is required for efficient metaphase spindle assembly and kinetochore bi-orientation

Kinesin-14s are conserved molecular motors required for high-fidelity chromosome segregation, but their specific contributions to spindle function have not been fully defined. Here, we show that key functions of budding yeast Kinesin-14 Cik1-Kar3 are accomplished in a complex with Bim1 (yeast EB1). Genetic complementation of mitotic phenotypes identifies a novel KLTF peptide motif in the Cik1 N-terminus. We show that this motif is one element of a tripartite binding interface required to form a high-affinity Bim1–Cik1-Kar3 complex. Lack of Bim1-binding by Cik1-Kar3 delays cells in mitosis and impairs microtubule bundle organization and dynamics. Conversely, constitutive targeting of Cik1-Kar3 to microtubule plus ends induces the formation of nuclear microtubule bundles. Cells lacking the Bim1–Cik1-Kar3 complex rely on the conserved microtubule bundler Ase1/PRC1 for metaphase spindle organization, and simultaneous loss of plus-end targeted Kar3 and Ase1 is lethal. Our results reveal the contributions of an EB1–Kinesin-14 complex for spindle formation as a prerequisite for efficient kinetochore clustering and bi-orientation.

The Role of the Cytoskeleton in Regulating the Natural Killer Cell Immune Response in Health and Disease: From Signaling Dynamics to Function

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells, which play key roles in elimination of virally infected and malignant cells. The balance between activating and inhibitory signals derived from NK surface receptors govern the NK cell immune response. The cytoskeleton facilitates most NK cell effector functions, such as motility, infiltration, conjugation with target cells, immunological synapse assembly, and cytotoxicity. Though many studies have characterized signaling pathways that promote actin reorganization in immune cells, it is not completely clear how particular cytoskeletal architectures at the immunological synapse promote effector functions, and how cytoskeletal dynamics impact downstream signaling pathways and activation. Moreover, pioneering studies employing advanced imaging techniques have only begun to uncover the architectural complexity dictating the NK cell activation threshold; it is becoming clear that a distinct organization of the cytoskeleton and signaling receptors at the NK immunological synapse plays a decisive role in activation and tolerance. Here, we review the roles of the actin cytoskeleton in NK cells. We focus on how actin dynamics impact cytolytic granule secretion, NK cell motility, and NK cell infiltration through tissues into inflammatory sites. We will also describe the additional cytoskeletal components, non-muscle Myosin II and microtubules that play pivotal roles in NK cell activity. Furthermore, special emphasis will be placed on the role of the cytoskeleton in assembly of immunological synapses, and how mutations or downregulation of cytoskeletal accessory proteins impact NK cell function in health and disease.

Microtubule minus-end stability is dictated by the tubulin off-rate

Dynamic organization of microtubule minus ends is vital for the formation and maintenance of acentrosomal microtubule arrays. In vitro, both microtubule ends switch between phases of assembly and disassembly, a behavior called dynamic instability. Although minus ends grow slower, their lifetimes are similar to those of plus ends. The mechanisms underlying these distinct dynamics remain unknown. Here, we use an in vitro reconstitution approach to investigate minus-end dynamics. We find that minus-end lifetimes are not defined by the mean size of the protective GTP-tubulin cap. Rather, we conclude that the distinct tubulin off-rate is the primary determinant of the difference between plus- and minus-end dynamics. Further, our results show that the minus-end-directed kinesin-14 HSET/KIFC1 suppresses tubulin off-rate to specifically suppress minus-end catastrophe. HSET maintains its protective minus-end activity even when challenged by a known microtubule depolymerase, kinesin-13 MCAK. Our results provide novel insight into the mechanisms of minus-end dynamics, essential for our understanding of microtubule minus-end regulation in cells.

Microtubule dynamics regulation reconstituted in budding yeast lysates

Microtubules (MTs) are important for cellular structure, transport of cargoes and segregation of chromosomes and organelles during mitosis. The stochastic growth and shrinkage of MTs, known as dynamic instability, is necessary for these functions. Previous studies to determine how individual MT-associated proteins (MAPs) affect MT dynamics have been performed either through in vivo studies, which provide limited opportunity for observation of individual MTs or manipulation of conditions, or in vitro studies, which focus either on purified proteins, and therefore lack cellular complexity, or on cell extracts made from genetically intractable organisms. In order to investigate the ensemble activities of all MAPs on MT dynamics using lysates made from a genetically tractable organism, we developed a cell-free assay for budding yeast lysates using total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy. Lysates were prepared from yeast strains expressing GFP-tubulin. MT polymerization from pre-assembled MT seeds adhered to a coverslip was observed in real time. Through use of cell division cycle (cdc) and MT depolymerase mutants, we found that MT polymerization and dynamic instability are dependent on the cell cycle state and the activities of specific MAPs.

Cortical dynein pulling mechanism is regulated by differentially targeted attachment molecule Num1

Cortical dynein generates pulling forces via microtubule (MT) end capture-shrinkage and lateral MT sliding mechanisms. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the dynein attachment molecule Num1 interacts with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria to facilitate spindle positioning across the mother-bud neck, but direct evidence for how these cortical contacts regulate dynein-dependent pulling forces is lacking. We show that loss of Scs2/Scs22, ER tethering proteins, resulted in defective Num1 distribution and loss of dynein-dependent MT sliding, the hallmark of dynein function. Cells lacking Scs2/Scs22 performed spindle positioning via MT end capture-shrinkage mechanism, requiring dynein anchorage to an ER- and mitochondria-independent population of Num1, dynein motor activity, and CAP-Gly domain of dynactin Nip100/p150^Glued subunit. Additionally, a CAAX-targeted Num1 rescued loss of lateral patches and MT sliding in the absence of Scs2/Scs22. These results reveal distinct populations of Num1 and underline the importance of their spatial distribution as a critical factor for regulating dynein pulling force.

Cells must divide so that organisms can grow, repair damaged tissues or reproduce. Before dividing, a cell creates two identical copies of its genetic information – one for each daughter. A molecular machine known as the mitotic spindle then moves each set of genetic material to where it will be needed when the daughter cells form. For the process to work properly, however, a motor protein known as dynein must correctly position the spindle by pulling it into place from the outskirts of the cell.

When a baker’s yeast cell divides, it first forms a ‘bump’, which grows into a bud that will ultimately become another yeast. The spindle needs to be precisely placed at the midpoint between the original cell and the bud, so the genetic material can get into the future daughter cell. To do so, dynein travels to the bud, where a protein called Num1 helps it attach to the periphery and pull the filaments of the mitotic spindle (known as microtubules) to the correct position. Num1 also attaches to other cellular structures in the bud, including one known as the endoplasmic reticulum. It was unclear how this connection changes where dynein is located, and how it can pull on the spindle.

To study this, Omer et al. labeled Num1, dynein and microtubules with fluorescent markers so they could be followed in living baker’s yeast using time-lapse microscopy. Mutant yeast strains were also used to disrupt how these proteins associate, which helps to tease out their roles. The experiments show that there are several populations of Num1 in the bud. One associates with the endoplasmic reticulum, and it helps dynein grab the side of a microtubule and make it slide into the bud. The other does not attach to the reticulum, but instead is located at the very tip of the bud. There, it makes dynein capture the end of the microtubule; this destabilizes the filament, which starts to shorten. As the microtubule shrinks, the spindle is pulled closer to the bud’s tip, which aligns it in the right position. The yeast cells thus need Num1 in both locations to fine-tune the pulling activity of dynein, and the spindle’s final positioning.

In the human body, not all divisions create two identical cells; for example, the daughters of stem cells can have different fates. This is due to a precise asymmetric division which dynein partly controls. The results by Omer et al. could help to unravel this mechanism.

Discrete regions of the kinesin-8 Kip3 tail differentially mediate astral microtubule stability and spindle disassembly

To function in diverse cellular processes, the dynamic properties of microtubules must be tightly regulated. Cellular microtubules are influenced by a multitude of regulatory proteins, but how their activities are spatiotemporally coordinated within the cell, or on specific microtubules, remains mostly obscure. The conserved kinesin-8 motor proteins are important microtubule regulators, and family members from diverse species combine directed motility with the ability to modify microtubule dynamics. Yet how kinesin-8 activities are appropriately deployed in the cellular context is largely unknown. Here we reveal the importance of the nonmotor tail in differentially controlling the physiological functions of the budding yeast kinesin-8, Kip3. We demonstrate that the tailless Kip3 motor domain adequately governs microtubule dynamics at the bud tip to allow spindle positioning in early mitosis. Notably, discrete regions of the tail mediate specific functions of Kip3 on astral and spindle microtubules. The region proximal to the motor domain operates to spatially regulate astral microtubule stability, while the distal tail serves a previously unrecognized role to control the timing of mitotic spindle disassembly. These findings provide insights into how nonmotor tail domains differentially control kinesin functions in cells and the mechanisms that spatiotemporally control the stability of cellular microtubules.

Nuclear movement in fungi

Nuclear movement within a cell occurs in a variety of eukaryotic organisms including yeasts and filamentous fungi. Fungal molecular genetic studies identified the minus-end-directed microtubule motor cytoplasmic dynein as a critical protein for nuclear movement or orientation of the mitotic spindle contained in the nucleus. Studies in the budding yeast first indicated that dynein anchored at the cortex via its anchoring protein Num1 exerts pulling force on an astral microtubule to orient the anaphase spindle across the mother-daughter axis before nuclear division. Prior to anaphase, myosin V interacts with the plus end of an astral microtubule via Kar9-Bim1/EB1 and pulls the plus end along the actin cables to move the nucleus/spindle close to the bud neck. In addition, pushing or pulling forces generated from cortex-linked polymerization or depolymerization of microtubules drive nuclear movements in yeasts and possibly also in filamentous fungi. In filamentous fungi, multiple nuclei within a hyphal segment undergo dynein-dependent back-and-forth movements and their positioning is also influenced by cytoplasmic streaming toward the hyphal tip. In addition, nuclear movement occurs at various stages of fungal development and fungal infection of plant tissues. This review discusses our current understanding on the mechanisms of nuclear movement in fungal organisms, the importance of nuclear positioning and the regulatory strategies that ensure the proper positioning of nucleus/spindle.

Interrogation of γ-tubulin alleles using high-resolution fitness measurements reveals a distinct cytoplasmic function in spindle alignment

γ-Tubulin has a well-established role in nucleating the assembly of microtubules, yet how phosphorylation regulates its activity remains unclear. Here, we use a time-resolved, fitness-based SGA approach to compare two γ-tubulin alleles, and find that the genetic interaction profile of γtub-Y362E is enriched in spindle positioning and cell polarity genes relative to that of γtub-Y445D, which is enriched in genes involved in spindle assembly and stability. In γtub-Y362E cells, we find a defect in spindle alignment and an increase in the number of astral microtubules at both spindle poles. Our results suggest that the γtub-Y362E allele is a separation-of-function mutation that reveals a role for γ-tubulin phospho-regulation in spindle alignment. We propose that phosphorylation of the evolutionarily conserved Y362 residue of budding yeast γ-tubulin contributes to regulating the number of astral microtubules associated with spindle poles, and promoting efficient pre-anaphase spindle alignment.

Molecular mechanisms of kinesin-14 motors in spindle assembly and chromosome segregation

During eukaryote cell division, molecular motors are crucial regulators of microtubule organization, spindle assembly, chromosome segregation and intracellular transport. The kinesin-14 motors are evolutionarily conserved minus-end-directed kinesin motors that occur in diverse organisms from simple yeasts to higher eukaryotes. Members of the kinesin-14 motor family can bind to, crosslink or slide microtubules and, thus, regulate microtubule organization and spindle assembly. In this Commentary, we present the common subthemes that have emerged from studies of the molecular kinetics and mechanics of kinesin-14 motors, particularly with regard to their non-processive movement, their ability to crosslink microtubules and interact with the minus- and plus-ends of microtubules, and with microtubule-organizing center proteins. In particular, counteracting forces between minus-end-directed kinesin-14 and plus-end-directed kinesin-5 motors have recently been implicated in the regulation of microtubule nucleation. We also discuss recent progress in our current understanding of the multiple and fundamental functions that kinesin-14 motors family members have in important aspects of cell division, including the spindle pole, spindle organization and chromosome segregation.

The mitotic kinesin-14 KlpA contains a context-dependent directionality switch

Kinesin-14s are commonly known as nonprocessive minus end-directed microtubule motors that function mainly for mitotic spindle assembly. Here we show using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy that KlpA—a kinesin-14 from Aspergillus nidulans—is a context-dependent bidirectional motor. KlpA exhibits plus end-directed processive motility on single microtubules, but reverts to canonical minus end-directed motility when anchored on the surface in microtubule-gliding experiments or interacting with a pair of microtubules in microtubule-sliding experiments. Plus end-directed processive motility of KlpA on single microtubules depends on its N-terminal nonmotor microtubule-binding tail, as KlpA without the tail is nonprocessive and minus end-directed. We suggest that the tail is a de facto directionality switch for KlpA motility: when the tail binds to the same microtubule as the motor domain, KlpA is a plus end-directed processive motor; in contrast, when the tail detaches from the microtubule to which the motor domain binds, KlpA becomes minus end-directed.

Kinesin-14s are commonly considered to be minus end-directed microtubule motor proteins. Here the authors show that KlpA, a fungal kinesin-14 orthologue, relies on its N-terminal nonmotor microtubule-binding tail to achieve context-dependent bidirectional motility.

Control of microtubule organization and dynamics: two ends in the limelight

Microtubules have fundamental roles in many essential biological processes, including cell division and intracellular transport. They assemble and disassemble from their two ends, denoted the plus end and the minus end. Significant advances have been made in our understanding of microtubule plus-end-tracking proteins (+TIPs) such as end-binding protein 1 (EB1), XMAP215, selected kinesins and dynein. By contrast, information on microtubule minus-end-targeting proteins (-TIPs), such as the calmodulin-regulated spectrin-associated proteins (CAMSAPs) and Patronin, has only recently started to emerge. Here, we review our current knowledge of factors, including microtubule-targeting agents, that associate with microtubule ends to control the dynamics and function of microtubules during the cell cycle and development.

Perinuclear tethers license telomeric DSBs for a broad kinesin- and NPC-dependent DNA repair process

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are often targeted to nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) for repair. How targeting is achieved and the DNA repair pathways involved in this process remain unclear. Here, we show that the kinesin-14 motor protein complex (Cik1-Kar3) cooperates with chromatin remodellers to mediate interactions between subtelomeric DSBs and the Nup84 nuclear pore complex to ensure cell survival via break-induced replication (BIR), an error-prone DNA repair process. Insertion of a DNA zip code near the subtelomeric DSB site artificially targets it to NPCs hyperactivating this repair mechanism. Kinesin-14 and Nup84 mediate BIR-dependent repair at non-telomeric DSBs whereas perinuclear telomere tethers are only required for telomeric BIR. Furthermore, kinesin-14 plays a critical role in telomerase-independent telomere maintenance. Thus, we uncover roles for kinesin and NPCs in DNA repair by BIR and reveal that perinuclear telomere anchors license subtelomeric DSBs for this error-prone DNA repair mechanism.

The Aspergillus nidulans bimC4 mutation provides an excellent tool for identification of kinesin-14 inhibitors

Centrosome amplification is a hallmark of many types of cancer cells, and clustering of multiple centrosomes is critical for cancer cell survival and proliferation. Human kinesin-14 HSET/KFIC1 is essential for centrosome clustering, and its inhibition leads to the specific killing of cancer cells with extra centrosomes. Since kinesin-14 motor domains are conserved evolutionarily, we conceived a strategy of obtaining kinesin-14 inhibitors using Aspergillus nidulans, based on the previous result that loss of the kinesin-14 KlpA rescues the non-viability of the bimC4 kinesin-5 mutant at 42 °C. However, it was unclear whether alteration of BimC or any other non-KlpA protein would be a major factor reversing the lethality of the bimC4 mutant. Here we performed a genome-wide screen for bimC4 suppressors and obtained fifteen suppressor strains. None of the suppressor mutations maps to bimC. The vast majority of them contain mutations in the klpA gene, most of which are missense mutations affecting the C-terminal motor domain. Our study confirms that the bimC4 mutant is suitable for a cell-based screen for chemical inhibitors of kinesin-14. Since the selection is based on enhanced growth rather than diminished growth, cytotoxic compounds can be excluded.

Microtubule minus end motors kinesin-14 and dynein drive nuclear congression in parallel pathways

Long-term imaging via microfluidic chambers shows that two minus end–directed motors, dynein and Klp2, work in parallel at distinct subcellular structures to promote efficient nuclear congression.

Microtubules (MTs) and associated motors play a central role in nuclear migration, which is crucial for diverse biological functions including cell division, polarity, and sexual reproduction. In this paper, we report a dual mechanism underlying nuclear congression during fission yeast karyogamy upon mating of haploid cells. Using microfluidic chambers for long-term imaging, we captured the precise timing of nuclear congression and identified two minus end–directed motors operating in parallel in this process. Kinesin-14 Klp2 associated with MTs may cross-link and slide antiparallel MTs emanating from the two nuclei, whereas dynein accumulating at spindle pole bodies (SPBs) may pull MTs nucleated from the opposite SPB. Klp2-dependent nuclear congression proceeds at constant speed, whereas dynein accumulation results in an increase of nuclear velocity over time. Surprisingly, the light intermediate chain Dli1, but not dynactin, is required for this previously unknown function of dynein. We conclude that efficient nuclear congression depends on the cooperation of two minus end–directed motors.

Candida albicans Kinesin Kar3 Depends on a Cik1-Like Regulatory Partner Protein for Its Roles in Mating, Cell Morphogenesis, and Bipolar Spindle Formation

Candida albicans is a major fungal pathogen whose virulence is associated with its ability to transition from a budding yeast form to invasive hyphal filaments. The kinesin-14 family member CaKar3 is required for transition between these morphological states, as well as for mitotic progression and karyogamy. While kinesin-14 proteins are ubiquitous, CaKar3 homologs in hemiascomycete fungi are unique because they form heterodimers with noncatalytic kinesin-like proteins. Thus, CaKar3-based motors may represent a novel antifungal drug target. We have identified and examined the roles of a kinesin-like regulator of CaKar3. We show that orf19.306 (dubbed CaCIK1) encodes a protein that forms a heterodimer with CaKar3, localizes CaKar3 to spindle pole bodies, and can bind microtubules and influence CaKar3 mechanochemistry despite lacking an ATPase activity of its own. Similar to CaKar3 depletion, loss of CaCik1 results in cell cycle arrest, filamentation defects, and an inability to undergo karyogamy. Furthermore, an examination of the spindle structure in cells lacking either of these proteins shows that a large proportion have a monopolar spindle or two dissociated half-spindles, a phenotype unique to the C. albicans kinesin-14 homolog. These findings provide new insights into mitotic spindle structure and kinesin motor function in C. albicans and identify a potentially vulnerable target for antifungal drug development.

Microtubule-depolymerizing kinesins in the regulation of assembly, disassembly, and length of cilia and flagella

Defects in ciliary assembly, maintenance, and signaling are associated with various human diseases and developmental disorders, termed ciliopathies. Eukaryotic flagella and cilia (interchangeable terms) are microtubule-based organelles. Thus, microtubule dynamics and microtubule-dependent transport are predicted to affect the structural integrity and functionality of cilia profoundly. Kinesin-2 is well known for its role in intraflagellar transport to transport ciliary precursors and signaling molecules. Recently, microtubule-depolymerizing kinesins found in kinesin-8, -13, and -14A families have emerged as regulators of cilia. We first discuss ciliary kinesins identified in the flagellar or ciliary proteome, and then focus on the function and regulation of microtubule-depolymerizing kinesins. Lastly, we review the recent advances of microtubule-depolymerizing kinesins in controlling ciliary assembly, disassembly, and length.

Kinesin Motor Enzymology: Chemistry, Structure, and Physics of Nanoscale Molecular Machines

Molecular motors are enzymes that convert chemical potential energy into controlled kinetic energy for mechanical work inside cells. Understanding the biophysics of these motors is essential for appreciating life as well as apprehending diseases that arise from motor malfunction. This review focuses on kinesin motor enzymology with special emphasis on the literature that reports the chemistry, structure and physics of several different kinesin superfamily members.

Non-catalytic motor domains enable processive movement and functional diversification of the kinesin-14 Kar3

Motor proteins of the conserved kinesin-14 family have important roles in mitotic spindle organization and chromosome segregation. Previous studies have indicated that kinesin-14 motors are non-processive enzymes, working in the context of multi-motor ensembles that collectively organize microtubule networks. In this study, we show that the yeast kinesin-14 Kar3 generates processive movement as a heterodimer with the non-motor proteins Cik1 or Vik1. By analyzing the single-molecule properties of engineered motors, we demonstrate that the non-catalytic domain has a key role in the motility mechanism by acting as a 'foothold' that allows Kar3 to bias translocation towards the minus end. This mechanism rivals the speed and run length of conventional motors, can support transport of the Ndc80 complex in vitro and is critical for Kar3 function in vivo. Our findings provide an example for a non-conventional translocation mechanism and can explain how Kar3 substitutes for key functions of Dynein in the yeast nucleus.

Microtubule-dependent path to the cell cortex for cytoplasmic dynein in mitotic spindle orientation

During animal development, microtubules (MTs) play a major role in directing cellular and subcellular patterning, impacting cell polarization and subcellular organization, thereby affecting cell fate determination and tissue architecture. In particular, when progenitor cells divide asymmetrically along an anterior-posterior or apical-basal axis, MTs must coordinate the position of the mitotic spindle with the site of cell division to ensure normal distribution of cell fate determinants and equal sequestration of genetic material into the two daughter cells. Emerging data from diverse model systems have led to the prevailing view that, during mitotic spindle positioning, polarity cues at the cell cortex signal for the recruitment of NuMA and the minus-end directed MT motor cytoplasmic dynein.¹ The NuMA/dynein complex is believed to connect, in turn, to the mitotic spindle via astral MTs, thus aligning and tethering the spindle, but how this connection is achieved faithfully is unclear. Do astral MTs need to search for and then capture cortical NuMA/dynein? How does dynein capture the astral MTs emanating from the correct spindle pole? Recently, using the classical model of asymmetric cell division—budding yeast S. cerevisiae—we successfully demonstrated that astral MTs assume an active role in cortical dynein targeting, in that astral MTs utilize their distal plus ends to deliver dynein to the daughter cell cortex, the site where dynein activity is needed to perform its spindle alignment function. This observation introduced the novel idea that, during mitotic spindle orientation processes, polarity cues at the cell cortex may actually signal to prime the cortical receptors for MT-dependent dynein delivery. This model is consistent with the observation that dynein/dynactin accumulate prominently at the astral MT plus ends during metaphase in a wide range of cultured mammalian cells.

Prime movers: the mechanochemistry of mitotic kinesins

Mitotic spindles are self-organizing protein machines that harness teams of multiple force generators to drive chromosome segregation. Kinesins are key members of these force-generating teams. Different kinesins walk directionally along dynamic microtubules, anchor, crosslink, align and sort microtubules into polarized bundles, and influence microtubule dynamics by interacting with microtubule tips. The mechanochemical mechanisms of these kinesins are specialized to enable each type to make a specific contribution to spindle self-organization and chromosome segregation.

Lessons from in vitro reconstitution analyses of plant microtubule-associated proteins

Plant microtubules, composed of tubulin GTPase, are irreplaceable cellular components that regulate the directions of cell expansion and cell division, chromosome segregation and cell plate formation. To accomplish these functions, plant cells organize microtubule structures by regulating microtubule dynamics. Each microtubule localizes to the proper position with repeated growth and shortening. Although it is possible to reconstitute microtubule dynamics with pure tubulin solution in vitro, many microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) govern microtubule dynamics in cells. In plants, major MAPs are identified as microtubule stabilizers (CLASP and MAP65 etc.), microtubule destabilizers (kinesin-13, katanin, MAP18 and MDP25), and microtubule dynamics promoters (EB1, MAP215, MOR1, MAP200, SPR2). Mutant analyses with forward and reverse genetics have shown the importance of microtubules and individual MAPs in plants. However, it is difficult to understand how each MAP regulates microtubule dynamics, such as growth and shortening, through mutant analyses. In vitro reconstitution analyses with individual purified MAPs and tubulin are powerful tools to reveal how each MAP regulates microtubule dynamics at the molecular level. In this review, I summarize the results of in vitro reconstitution analyses and introduce current models of how each MAP regulates microtubule dynamic instability.

KIFC3 promotes mitotic progression and integrity of the central spindle in cytokinesis

Kinesin-14 motor proteins play a variety of roles during metaphase and anaphase. However, it is not known whether members of this family of motors also participate in the dramatic changes in mitotic spindle organization during the transition from telophase to cytokinesis. We have identified the minus-end-directed motor, KIFC3, as an important contributor to central bridge morphology at this stage. KIFC3's unique motor-dependent localization at the central bridge allows it to congress microtubules, promoting efficient progress through cytokinesis. Conversely, when KIFC3 function is perturbed, abscission is delayed, and the central bridge is both widened and extended. Examination of KIFC3 on growing microtubules in interphase indicates that it caps microtubules released from the centrosome, both in the region of the centrosome and in the cell periphery. In line with other kinesin-14 family members, KIFC3 may guide free microtubules to their destination at the bridge and/or may slide and crosslink central bridge microtubules in order to stage the cells for abscission.

Kar3Vik1 mechanochemistry is inhibited by mutation or deletion of the C terminus of the Vik1 subunit

Force production by kinesins has been linked to structural rearrangements of the N and C termini of their motor domain upon nucleotide binding. In recent crystal structures, the Kar3-associated protein Vik1 shows unexpected homology to these conformational states even though it lacks a nucleotide-binding site. This conservation infers a degree of commonality in the function of the N- and C-terminal regions during the mechanochemical cycle of all kinesins and kinesin-related proteins. We tested this inference by examining the functional effects on Kar3Vik1 of mutating or deleting residues in Vik1 that are involved in stabilizing the C terminus against the core and N terminus of the Vik1 motor homology domain (MHD). Point mutations at two moderately conserved residues near the Vik1 C terminus impaired microtubule gliding and microtubule-stimulated ATP turnover by Kar3Vik1. Deletion of the seven C-terminal residues inhibited Kar3Vik1 motility much more drastically. Interestingly, none of the point mutants seemed to perturb the ability of Kar3Vik1 to bind microtubules, whereas the C-terminal truncation mutant did. Molecular dynamics simulations of these C-terminal mutants showed distinct root mean square fluctuations in the N-terminal region of the Vik1 MHD that connects it to Kar3. Here, the degree of motion in the N-terminal portion of Vik1 highly correlated with that in the C terminus. These observations suggest that the N and C termini of the Vik1 MHD form a discrete folding motif that is part of a communication pathway to the nucleotide-binding site of Kar3.

Common mechanistic themes for the powerstroke of kinesin-14 motors

Kar3Cik1 is a heterodimeric kinesin-14 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae involved in spindle formation during mitosis and karyogamy in mating cells. Kar3 represents a canonical kinesin motor domain that interacts with microtubules under the control of ATP-hydrolysis. In vivo, the localization and function of Kar3 is differentially regulated by its interacting stoichiometrically with either Cik1 or Vik1, two closely related motor homology domains that lack the nucleotide-binding site. Indeed, Vik1 structurally resembles the core of a kinesin head. Despite being closely related, Kar3Cik1 and Kar3Vik1 are each responsible for a distinct set of functions in vivo and also display different biochemical behavior in vitro. To determine a structural basis for their distinct functional abilities, we used cryo-electron microscopy and helical reconstruction to investigate the 3-D structure of Kar3Cik1 complexed to microtubules in various nucleotide states and compared our 3-D data of Kar3Cik1 with that of Kar3Vik1 and the homodimeric kinesin-14 Ncd from Drosophila melanogaster. Due to the lack of an X-ray crystal structure of the Cik1 motor homology domain, we predicted the structure of this Cik1 domain based on sequence similarity to its relatives Vik1, Kar3 and Ncd. By molecular docking into our 3-D maps, we produced a detailed near-atomic model of Kar3Cik1 complexed to microtubules in two distinct nucleotide states, a nucleotide-free state and an ATP-bound state. Our data show that despite their functional differences, heterodimeric Kar3Cik1 and Kar3Vik1 and homodimeric Ncd, all share striking structural similarities at distinct nucleotide states indicating a common mechanistic theme within the kinesin-14 family.

The molecular basis for kinesin functional specificity during mitosis

Microtubule-based motor proteins play key roles during mitosis to assemble the bipolar spindle, define the cell division axis, and align and segregate the chromosomes. The majority of mitotic motors are members of the kinesin superfamily. Despite sharing a conserved catalytic core, each kinesin has distinct functions and localization, and is uniquely regulated in time and space. These distinct behaviors and functional specificity are generated by variations in the enzymatic domain as well as the non-conserved regions outside of the kinesin motor domain and the stalk. These flanking regions can directly modulate the properties of the kinesin motor through dimerization or self-interactions, and can associate with extrinsic factors, such as microtubule or DNA binding proteins, to provide additional functional properties. This review discusses the recently identified molecular mechanisms that explain how the control and functional specification of mitotic kinesins is achieved. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Direct regulation of microtubule dynamics by KIF17 motor and tail domains

KIF17 is a kinesin-2 family motor that interacts with EB1 at microtubule (MT) plus-ends and contributes to MT stabilization in epithelial cells. The mechanism by which KIF17 affects MTs and how its activity is regulated are not yet known. Here, we show that EB1 and the KIF17 autoinhibitory tail domain (KIF17-Tail) interacted competitively with the KIF17 catalytic motor domain (K370). Both EB1 and KIF17-Tail decreased the K0.5MT of K370, with opposing effects on MT-stimulated ATPase activity. Importantly, K370 had independent effects on MT dynamic instability, resulting in formation of long MTs without affecting polymerization rate or total polymer mass. K370 also inhibited MT depolymerization induced by dilution in vitro and by nocodazole in cells, suggesting that it acts by protecting MT plus-ends. Interestingly, KIF17-Tail bound MTs and tubulin dimers, delaying initial MT polymerization in vitro and MT regrowth in cells. However, neither EB1 nor KIF17-Tail affected K370-mediated MT polymerization or stabilization significantly in vitro, and EB1 was dispensable for MT stabilization by K370 in cells. Thus, although EB1 and KIF17-Tail may coordinate KIF17 catalytic activity, our data reveal a novel and direct role for KIF17 in regulating MT dynamics.

Kinesin-5 Kip1 is a bi-directional motor that stabilizes microtubules and tracks their plus-ends in vivo

In this study, we examined the anaphase functions of the S. cerevisiae kinesin-5 homolog Kip1. We show that Kip1 is attached to the mitotic spindle midzone during late anaphase. This attachment is essential to stabilize interpolar microtubule (iMTs) plus-ends. By detailed examination of iMT dynamics we show that at the end of anaphase, iMTs depolymerize in two stages: during the first stage, one pair of anti-parallel iMTs depolymerizes at a velocity of 7.7 µm/minute; during the second stage, ∼90 seconds later, the remaining pair of iMTs depolymerizes at a slower velocity of 5.4 µm/minute. We show that upon the second depolymerization stage, which coincides with spindle breakdown, Kip1 follows the plus-ends of depolymerizing iMTs and translocates toward the spindle poles. This movement is independent of mitotic microtubule motor proteins or the major plus-end binding or tracking proteins. In addition, we show that Kip1 processively tracks the plus-ends of growing and shrinking MTs, both inside and outside the nucleus. The plus-end tracking activity of Kip1 requires its catalytic motor function, because a rigor mutant of Kip1 does not exhibit this activity. Finally, we show that Kip1 is a bi-directional motor: in vitro, at high ionic strength conditions, single Kip1 molecules move processively in the minus-end direction of the MTs, whereas in a multi-motor gliding assay, Kip1 is plus-end directed. The bi-directionality and plus-end tracking activity of Kip1, properties revealed here for the first time, allow Kip1 to perform its multiple functions in mitotic spindle dynamics and to partition the 2-micron plasmid.

When yeast cells meet, karyogamy!: an example of nuclear migration slowly resolved

Cytoskeleton-mediated transport processes are central to the subcellular organization of cells. The nucleus constitutes the largest organelle of a cell, and studying how it is positioned and moved around during various types of cell morphogenetic processes has puzzled researchers for a long time. Now, the molecular architectures of the underlying dynamic processes start to reveal their secrets.   In yeast, karyogamy denotes the migration of two nuclei toward each other-termed nuclear congression-upon partner cell mating and the subsequent fusion of these nuclei to form a diploid nucleus. It constitutes a well-studied case. Recent insights completed the picture about the molecular processes involved and provided us with a comprehensive model amenable to quantitative computational simulation of the process. This review discusses our understanding of yeast nuclear congression and karyogamy and seeks to explain how a detailed, quantitative and systemic understanding has emerged from this knowledge.

Spindle pole body-anchored Kar3 drives the nucleus along microtubules from another nucleus in preparation for nuclear fusion during yeast karyogamy

Nuclear migration during yeast karyogamy, termed nuclear congression, is required to initiate nuclear fusion. Congression involves a specific regulation of the microtubule minus end-directed kinesin-14 motor Kar3 and a rearrangement of the cytoplasmic microtubule attachment sites at the spindle pole bodies (SPBs). However, how these elements interact to produce the forces necessary for nuclear migration is less clear. We used electron tomography, molecular genetics, quantitative imaging, and first principles modeling to investigate how cytoplasmic microtubules are organized during nuclear congression. We found that Kar3, with the help of its light chain, Cik1, is anchored during mating to the SPB component Spc72 that also serves as a nucleator and anchor for microtubules via their minus ends. Moreover, we show that no direct microtubule-microtubule interactions are required for nuclear migration. Instead, SPB-anchored Kar3 exerts the necessary pulling forces laterally on microtubules emanating from the SPB of the mating partner nucleus. Therefore, a twofold symmetrical application of the core principle that drives nuclear migration in higher cells is used in yeast to drive nuclei toward each other before nuclear fusion.

Kar3Vik1 uses a minus-end directed powerstroke for movement along microtubules

We have used cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and helical averaging to examine the 3-D structure of the heterodimeric kinesin-14 Kar3Vik1 complexed to microtubules at a resolution of 2.5 nm. 3-D maps were obtained at key points in Kar3Vik1's nucleotide hydrolysis cycle to gain insight into the mechanism that this motor uses for retrograde motility. In all states where Kar3Vik1 maintained a strong interaction with the microtubule, we found, as observed by cryo-EM, that the motor bound with one head domain while the second head extended outwards. 3-D reconstructions of Kar3Vik1-microtubule complexes revealed that in the nucleotide-free state, the motor's coiled-coil stalk points toward the plus-end of the microtubule. In the ATP-state, the outer head is shown to undergo a large rotation that reorients the stalk ∼75° to point toward the microtubule minus-end. To determine which of the two heads binds to tubulin in each nucleotide state, we employed specific Nanogold®-labeling of Vik1. The resulting maps confirmed that in the nucleotide-free, ATP and ADP+Pi states, Kar3 maintains contact with the microtubule surface, while Vik1 extends away from the microtubule and tracks with the coiled-coil as it rotates towards the microtubule minus-end. While many previous investigations have focused on the mechanisms of homodimeric kinesins, this work presents the first comprehensive study of the powerstroke of a heterodimeric kinesin. The stalk rotation shown here for Kar3Vik1 is highly reminiscent of that reported for the homodimeric kinesin-14 Ncd, emphasizing the conservation of a mechanism for minus-end directed motility.

Purification and biophysical analysis of microtubule-severing enzymes in vitro

Microtubule-severing enzymes are a novel class of microtubule regulators. They are enzymes from the ATPases associated with various cellular activities family (AAA+) that utilize ATP to cut microtubules into smaller filaments. Discovered over 20 years ago, there are still many open questions about severing enzymes. Both cellular and biochemical studies need to be pursued to fully understand how these enzymes function mechanistically in the cell. Here, we present methods to express, purify, and test the biophysical nature of these proteins in vitro to begin to address the biochemical and biophysical mechanisms of this important and novel group of microtubule destabilizers.

Functional asymmetry in kinesin and dynein dimers

Active transport along the microtubule lattice is a complex process that involves both the Kinesin and Dynein superfamily of motors. Transportation requires sophisticated regulation much of which occurs through the motor's tail domain. However, a significant portion of this regulation also occurs through structural changes that arise in the motor and the microtubule upon binding. The most obvious structural change being the manifestation of asymmetry. To a first approximation in solution, kinesin dimers exhibit twofold symmetry, and microtubules exhibit helical symmetry. The higher symmetries of both the kinesin dimers and microtubule lattice are lost on formation of the kinesin-microtubule complex. Loss of symmetry has functional consequences such as an asymmetric hand-over-hand mechanism in plus-end-directed kinesins, asymmetric microtubule binding in the Kinesin-14 family, spatially biased stepping in dynein and cooperative binding of additional motors to the microtubule. This review focusses on how the consequences of asymmetry affect regulation of motor heads within a dimer, dimers within an ensemble of motors, and suggests how these asymmetries may affect regulation of active transport within the cell.

Crystal structure of the Candida albicans Kar3 kinesin motor domain fused to maltose-binding protein

In the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans, the Kinesin-14 motor protein Kar3 (CaKar3) is critical for normal mitotic division, nuclear fusion during mating, and morphogenic transition from the commensal yeast form to the virulent hyphal form. As a first step towards detailed characterization of this motor of potential medical significance, we have crystallized and determined the X-ray structure of the motor domain of CaKar3 as a maltose-binding protein (MBP) fusion. The structure shows strong conservation of overall motor domain topology to other Kar3 kinesins, but with some prominent differences in one of the motifs that compose the nucleotide-binding pocket and the surface charge distribution. The MBP and Kar3 modules are arranged such that MBP interacts with the Kar3 motor domain core at the same site where the neck linker of conventional kinesins docks during the "ATP state" of the mechanochemical cycle. This site differs from the Kar3 neck-core interface in the recent structure of the ScKar3Vik1 heterodimer. The position of MBP is also completely distinct from the Vik1 subunit in this complex. This may suggest that the site of MBP interaction on the CaKar3 motor domain provides an interface for the neck, or perhaps a partner subunit, at an intermediate state of its motile cycle that has not yet been observed for Kinesin-14 motors.

Neck rotation and neck mimic docking in the noncatalytic Kar3-associated protein Vik1

BACKGROUND

Kar3Vik1 is a heterodimeric kinesin with one catalytic subunit (Kar3) and one noncatalytic subunit (Vik1).

RESULTS

Vik1 experiences conformational changes in regions analogous to the force-producing elements in catalytic kinesins.

CONCLUSION

A molecular mechanism by which Kar3 could trigger Vik1's release from microtubules was revealed.

SIGNIFICANCE

These findings will serve as the prototype for understanding the motile mechanism of kinesin-14 motors in general. It is widely accepted that movement of kinesin motor proteins is accomplished by coupling ATP binding, hydrolysis, and product release to conformational changes in the microtubule-binding and force-generating elements of their motor domain. Therefore, understanding how the Saccharomyces cerevisiae proteins Cik1 and Vik1 are able to function as direct participants in movement of Kar3Cik1 and Kar3Vik1 kinesin complexes presents an interesting challenge given that their motor homology domain (MHD) cannot bind ATP. Our crystal structures of the Vik1 ortholog from Candida glabrata may provide insight into this mechanism by showing that its neck and neck mimic-like element can adopt several different conformations reminiscent of those observed in catalytic kinesins. We found that when the neck is α-helical and interacting with the MHD core, the C terminus of CgVik1 docks onto the central β-sheet similarly to the ATP-bound form of Ncd. Alternatively, when neck-core interactions are broken, the C terminus is disordered. Mutations designed to impair neck rotation, or some of the neck-MHD interactions, decreased microtubule gliding velocity and steady state ATPase rate of CgKar3Vik1 complexes significantly. These results strongly suggest that neck rotation and neck mimic docking in Vik1 and Cik1 may be a structural mechanism for communication with Kar3.

The ATPase pathway that drives the kinesin-14 Kar3Vik1 powerstroke

Kar3, a Saccharomyces cerevisiae microtubule minus-end-directed kinesin-14, dimerizes with either Vik1 or Cik1. The C-terminal globular domain of Vik1 exhibits the structure of a kinesin motor domain and binds microtubules independently of Kar3 but lacks a nucleotide binding site. The only known function of Kar3Vik1 is to cross-link parallel microtubules at the spindle poles during mitosis. In contrast, Kar3Cik1 depolymerizes microtubules during mating but cross-links antiparallel microtubules in the spindle overlap zone during mitosis. A recent study showed that Kar3Vik1 binds across adjacent microtubule protofilaments and uses a minus-end-directed powerstroke to drive ATP-dependent motility. The presteady-state experiments presented here extend this study and establish an ATPase model for the powerstroke mechanism. The results incorporated into the model indicate that Kar3Vik1 collides with the microtubule at 2.4 μm(-1) s(-1) through Vik1, promoting microtubule binding by Kar3 followed by ADP release at 14 s(-1). The tight binding of Kar3 to the microtubule destabilizes the Vik1 interaction with the microtubule, positioning Kar3Vik1 for the start of the powerstroke. Rapid ATP binding to Kar3 is associated with rotation of the coiled-coil stalk, and the postpowerstroke ATP hydrolysis at 26 s(-1) is independent of Vik1, providing further evidence that Vik1 rotates with the coiled coil during the powerstroke. Detachment of Kar3Vik1 from the microtubule at 6 s(-1) completes the cycle and allows the motor to return to its initial conformation. The results also reveal key differences in the ATPase cycles of Kar3Vik1 and Kar3Cik1, supporting the fact that these two motors have distinctive biological functions.

Move in for the kill: motile microtubule regulators

The stereotypical function of kinesin superfamily motors is to transport cargo along microtubules. However, some kinesins also shape the microtubule track by regulating microtubule assembly and disassembly. Recent work has shown that the kinesin-8 family of motors emerge as key regulators of cellular microtubule length. The studied kinesin-8s are highly processive motors that walk towards the microtubule plus-end. Once at plus-ends, they have complex effects on polymer dynamics; kinesin-8s either destabilize or stabilize microtubules, depending on the context. This review focuses on the mechanisms underlying kinesin-8-microtubule interactions and microtubule length control. We compare and contrast kinesin-8s with the other major microtubule-regulating kinesins (kinesin-4 and kinesin-13), to survey the current understanding of the diverse ways that kinesins control microtubule dynamics.

Kar3Vik1, a member of the kinesin-14 superfamily, shows a novel kinesin microtubule binding pattern

Kinesin-14 motors generate microtubule minus-end-directed force used in mitosis and meiosis. These motors are dimeric and operate with a nonprocessive powerstroke mechanism, but the role of the second head in motility has been unclear. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the Kinesin-14 Kar3 forms a heterodimer with either Vik1 or Cik1. Vik1 contains a motor homology domain that retains microtubule binding properties but lacks a nucleotide binding site. In this case, both heads are implicated in motility. Here, we show through structural determination of a C-terminal heterodimeric Kar3Vik1, electron microscopy, equilibrium binding, and motility that at the start of the cycle, Kar3Vik1 binds to or occludes two αβ-tubulin subunits on adjacent protofilaments. The cycle begins as Vik1 collides with the microtubule followed by Kar3 microtubule association and ADP release, thereby destabilizing the Vik1-microtubule interaction and positioning the motor for the start of the powerstroke. The results indicate that head-head communication is mediated through the adjoining coiled coil.

Mitotic spindle form and function

The Saccharomyces cerevisiae mitotic spindle in budding yeast is exemplified by its simplicity and elegance. Microtubules are nucleated from a crystalline array of proteins organized in the nuclear envelope, known as the spindle pole body in yeast (analogous to the centrosome in larger eukaryotes). The spindle has two classes of nuclear microtubules: kinetochore microtubules and interpolar microtubules. One kinetochore microtubule attaches to a single centromere on each chromosome, while approximately four interpolar microtubules emanate from each pole and interdigitate with interpolar microtubules from the opposite spindle to provide stability to the bipolar spindle. On the cytoplasmic face, two to three microtubules extend from the spindle pole toward the cell cortex. Processes requiring microtubule function are limited to spindles in mitosis and to spindle orientation and nuclear positioning in the cytoplasm. Microtubule function is regulated in large part via products of the 6 kinesin gene family and the 1 cytoplasmic dynein gene. A single bipolar kinesin (Cin8, class Kin-5), together with a depolymerase (Kip3, class Kin-8) or minus-end-directed kinesin (Kar3, class Kin-14), can support spindle function and cell viability. The remarkable feature of yeast cells is that they can survive with microtubules and genes for just two motor proteins, thus providing an unparalleled system to dissect microtubule and motor function within the spindle machine.

Nuclear positioning: dynein needed for microtubule shrinkage-coupled movement

Nuclear movement often requires interactions between the cell cortex and microtubules. A new study has revealed a novel protein interaction linking microtubule plus-ends with the cortex and a role for dynein in microtubule shrinkage-coupled movement.

Are coiled-coils of dimeric kinesins unwound during their walking on microtubule?

Dimeric kinesin motor proteins such as homodimeric kinesin-1, homodimeric Ncd and heterodimeric Kar3/Vik1are composed of two head domains which are connected together by a rod-shaped, coiled-coil stalk. Despite the extensive and intensive studies on structures, kinetics, dynamics and walking mechanism of the dimers, whether their coiled-coils are unwound or not during their walking on the microtubule is still an unclear issue. Here, we try to clarify this issue by using molecular dynamics simulations. Our simulation results showed that, for Ncd, a large change in potential of mean force is required to unwind the coiled-coil by only several pairs of residues. For both Ncd and kinesin-1, the force required to initiate the coiled-coil unwinding is larger than that required for unfolding of the single -helix that forms the coiled-coil or is larger than that required to unwind the DNA duplex, which is higher than the unbinding force of the kinesin head from the microtubule in strong microtubule-binding states. Based on these results and the comparison of the sequence between the coiled-coil of Kar3/Vik1 and those of Ncd and kinesin-1, it was deduced that the coiled-coil of the Kar3/Vik1 should also be very stable. Thus, we concluded that the coiled-coils of kinesin-1, Ncd and Kar3/Vik1 are almost impossible to unwind during their walking on the microtubule.

Unconventional functions of microtubule motors

With the functional characterization of proteins advancing at fast pace, the notion that one protein performs different functions - often with no relation to each other - emerges as a novel principle of how cells work. Molecular motors are no exception to this new development. Here, we provide an account on recent findings revealing that microtubule motors are multifunctional proteins that regulate many cellular processes, in addition to their main function in transport. Some of these functions rely on their motor activity, but others are independent of it. Of the first category, we focus on the role of microtubule motors in organelle biogenesis, and in the remodeling of the cytoskeleton, especially through the regulation of microtubule dynamics. Of the second category, we discuss the function of microtubule motors as static anchors of the cargo at the destination, and their participation in regulating signaling cascades by modulating interactions between signaling proteins, including transcription factors. We also review atypical forms of transport, such as the cytoplasmic streaming in the oocyte, and the movement of cargo by microtubule fluctuations. Our goal is to provide an overview of these unexpected functions of microtubule motors, and to incite future research in this expanding field.

S. pombe kinesins-8 promote both nucleation and catastrophe of microtubules

The kinesins-8 were originally thought to be microtubule depolymerases, but are now emerging as more versatile catalysts of microtubule dynamics. We show here that S. pombe Klp5-436 and Klp6-440 are non-processive plus-end-directed motors whose in vitro velocities on S. pombe microtubules at 7 and 23 nm s(-1) are too slow to keep pace with the growing tips of dynamic interphase microtubules in living S. pombe. In vitro, Klp5 and 6 dimers exhibit a hitherto-undescribed combination of strong enhancement of microtubule nucleation with no effect on growth rate or catastrophe frequency. By contrast in vivo, both Klp5 and Klp6 promote microtubule catastrophe at cell ends whilst Klp6 also increases the number of interphase microtubule arrays (IMAs). Our data support a model in which Klp5/6 bind tightly to free tubulin heterodimers, strongly promoting the nucleation of new microtubules, and then continue to land as a tubulin-motor complex on the tips of growing microtubules, with the motors then dissociating after a few seconds residence on the lattice. In vivo, we predict that only at cell ends, when growing microtubule tips become lodged and their growth slows down, will Klp5/6 motor activity succeed in tracking growing microtubule tips. This mechanism would allow Klp5/6 to detect the arrival of microtubule tips at cells ends and to amplify the intrinsic tendency for microtubules to catastrophise in compression at cell ends. Our evidence identifies Klp5 and 6 as spatial regulators of microtubule dynamics that enhance both microtubule nucleation at the cell centre and microtubule catastrophe at the cell ends.

Loss of function of the Cik1/Kar3 motor complex results in chromosomes with syntelic attachment that are sensed by the tension checkpoint

The attachment of sister kinetochores by microtubules emanating from opposite spindle poles establishes chromosome bipolar attachment, which generates tension on chromosomes and is essential for sister-chromatid segregation. Syntelic attachment occurs when both sister kinetochores are attached by microtubules from the same spindle pole and this attachment is unable to generate tension on chromosomes, but a reliable method to induce syntelic attachments is not available in budding yeast. The spindle checkpoint can sense the lack of tension on chromosomes as well as detached kinetochores to prevent anaphase onset. In budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, tension checkpoint proteins Aurora/Ipl1 kinase and centromere-localized Sgo1 are required to sense the absence of tension but are dispensable for the checkpoint response to detached kinetochores. We have found that the loss of function of a motor protein complex Cik1/Kar3 in budding yeast leads to syntelic attachments. Inactivation of either the spindle or tension checkpoint enables premature anaphase entry in cells with dysfunctional Cik1/Kar3, resulting in co-segregation of sister chromatids. Moreover, the abolished Kar3-kinetochore interaction in cik1 mutants suggests that the Cik1/Kar3 complex mediates chromosome movement along microtubules, which could facilitate bipolar attachment. Therefore, we can induce syntelic attachments in budding yeast by inactivating the Cik1/Kar3 complex, and this approach will be very useful to study the checkpoint response to syntelic attachments.

Chromosome bipolar attachment occurs when sister chromatids are attached by microtubules emanating from opposite spindle poles and is essential for faithful sister-chromatid segregation. Chromosomes are under tension once bipolar attachment is established. The absence of tension is sensed by the tension checkpoint that prevents chromosome segregation. The attachment of sister chromatids by microtubules from the same spindle pole generates syntelic attachment, which fails to generate tension on chromosomes. However, a reliable method to induce syntelic attachment is not available. Our findings indicate that the inactivation of the motor complex, Cik1/Kar3, results in chromosomes with syntelic attachment in budding yeast. In the absence of the tension checkpoint, yeast cells with dysfunctional Cik1/Kar3 enter anaphase, resulting in co-segregation of sister chromatids. Therefore, with this method we can experimentally induce syntelic attachment in yeast and investigate how cells respond to this incorrect attachment.

The mother-bud neck as a signaling platform for the coordination between spindle position and cytokinesis in budding yeast

During asymmetric cell division, spindle positioning is critical for ensuring the unequal inheritance of polarity factors. In budding yeast, the mother-bud neck determines the cleavage plane and a correct nuclear division between mother and daughter cell requires orientation of the mitotic spindle along the mother-bud axis. A surveillance device called the spindle position/orientation checkpoint (SPOC) oversees this process and delays mitotic exit and cytokinesis until the spindle is properly oriented along the division axis, thus ensuring genome stability. Cytoskeletal proteins called septins form a ring at the bud neck that is essential for cytokinesis. Furthermore, septins and septin-associated proteins are implicated in spindle positioning and SPOC. In this review, we discuss the emerging connections between septins and the SPOC and the role of the mother-bud neck as a signaling platform to couple proper chromosome segregation to cytokinesis.

Shaping microtubules into diverse patterns: molecular connections for setting up both ends

Microtubules serve as rails for intracellular trafficking and their appropriate organization is critical for the generation of cell polarity, which is a foundation of cell differentiation, tissue morphogenesis, ontogenesis and the maintenance of homeostasis. The microtubule array is not just a static railway network; it undergoes repeated collapse and reassembly in diverse patterns during cell morphogenesis. In the last decade much progress has been made toward understanding the molecular mechanisms governing complex microtubule patterning. This review first revisits the basic principle of microtubule dynamics, and then provides an overview of how microtubules are arranged in highly shaped and functional patterns in cells changing their morphology by factors controlling the fate of microtubule ends.

Regulation of microtubule dynamics by kinesins

The simple mechanistic and functional division of the kinesin family into either active translocators or non-motile microtubule depolymerases was initially appropriate but is now proving increasingly unhelpful, given evidence that several translocase kinesins can affect microtubule dynamics, whilst non-translocase kinesins can promote microtubule assembly and depolymerisation. Such multi-role kinesins act either directly on microtubule dynamics, by interaction with microtubules and tubulin, or indirectly, through the transport of other factors along the lattice to the microtubule tip. Here I review recent progress on the mechanisms and roles of these translocase kinesins.