1
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Saltini M, Deinum EE. Microtubule simulations in plant biology: A field coming to maturity. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 81:102596. [PMID: 38981324 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2024.102596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
The plant cortical microtubule array is an important determinant of cell wall structure and, therefore, plant morphology and physiology. The array consists of dynamic microtubules interacting through frequent collisions. Since the discovery by Dixit and Cyr (2004) that the outcome of such collisions depends on the collision angle, computer simulations have been indispensable in studying array behaviour. Over the last decade, the available simulation tools have drastically improved: multiple high-quality simulation platforms exist with specific strengths and applications. Here, we review how these platforms differ on the critical aspects of microtubule nucleation, flexibility, and local orienting cues; and how such differences affect array behaviour. Building upon concepts and control parameters from theoretical models of collective microtubule behaviour, we conclude that all these factors matter in the debate about what is most important for orienting the array: local cues like mechanical stresses or global cues deriving from the cell geometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Saltini
- Mathematical & Statistical Methods (Biometris), Plant Science Group, Wageningen University, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Eva E Deinum
- Mathematical & Statistical Methods (Biometris), Plant Science Group, Wageningen University, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands.
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2
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Nasrin SR, Yamashita T, Ikeguchi M, Torisawa T, Oiwa K, Sada K, Kakugo A. Tensile Stress on Microtubules Facilitates Dynein-Driven Cargo Transport. NANO LETTERS 2024. [PMID: 38916205 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c00209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Mechanical stress significantly affects the physiological functions of cells, including tissue homeostasis, cytoskeletal alterations, and intracellular transport. As a major cytoskeletal component, microtubules respond to mechanical stimulation by altering their alignment and polymerization dynamics. Previously, we reported that microtubules may modulate cargo transport by one of the microtubule-associated motor proteins, dynein, under compressive mechanical stress. Despite the critical role of tensile stress in many biological functions, how tensile stress on microtubules regulates cargo transport is yet to be unveiled. The present study demonstrates that the low-level tensile stress-induced microtubule deformation facilitates dynein-driven transport. We validate our experimental findings using all-atom molecular dynamics simulation. Our study may provide important implications for developing new therapies for diseases that involve impaired intracellular transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Rubaiya Nasrin
- Graduate School of Science, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8152, Japan
| | - Takefumi Yamashita
- Department of Physical University, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hoshi University, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 142-8501, Japan
- Laboratory for Systems Biology and Medicine, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 153-8904, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Ikeguchi
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Takayuki Torisawa
- Cell Architecture Laboratory, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
- Department of Genetics, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, Sokendai, Mishima, 411-8540, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Oiwa
- Advanced ICT Research Institute, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Kobe, Hyogo 651-2492, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0810, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Graduate School of Science, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8152, Japan
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3
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Hoermayer L, Montesinos JC, Trozzi N, Spona L, Yoshida S, Marhava P, Caballero-Mancebo S, Benková E, Heisenberg CP, Dagdas Y, Majda M, Friml J. Mechanical forces in plant tissue matrix orient cell divisions via microtubule stabilization. Dev Cell 2024; 59:1333-1344.e4. [PMID: 38579717 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Plant morphogenesis relies exclusively on oriented cell expansion and division. Nonetheless, the mechanism(s) determining division plane orientation remain elusive. Here, we studied tissue healing after laser-assisted wounding in roots of Arabidopsis thaliana and uncovered how mechanical forces stabilize and reorient the microtubule cytoskeleton for the orientation of cell division. We identified that root tissue functions as an interconnected cell matrix, with a radial gradient of tissue extendibility causing predictable tissue deformation after wounding. This deformation causes instant redirection of expansion in the surrounding cells and reorientation of microtubule arrays, ultimately predicting cell division orientation. Microtubules are destabilized under low tension, whereas stretching of cells, either through wounding or external aspiration, immediately induces their polymerization. The higher microtubule abundance in the stretched cell parts leads to the reorientation of microtubule arrays and, ultimately, informs cell division planes. This provides a long-sought mechanism for flexible re-arrangement of cell divisions by mechanical forces for tissue reconstruction and plant architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Hoermayer
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria; Department of Plant Molecular Biology (DMBV), University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Gregor Mendel Institute (GMI), Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Juan Carlos Montesinos
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria; Instituto Universitario de Biotecnología y Biomedicina (BIOTECMED), Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Universitat de València, 46100 Burjassot, Spain
| | - Nicola Trozzi
- Department of Plant Molecular Biology (DMBV), University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Leonhard Spona
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Saiko Yoshida
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria; Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, 50829 Carl-von-Linné-Weg 10, Cologne, Germany
| | - Petra Marhava
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria; Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC), Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology, University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), 90183 Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Eva Benková
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | | | - Yasin Dagdas
- Gregor Mendel Institute (GMI), Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mateusz Majda
- Department of Plant Molecular Biology (DMBV), University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jiří Friml
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria.
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4
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Nowroz S, Nasrin SR, Kabir AMR, Yamashita T, Kusumoto T, Taira J, Tani M, Ichikawa M, Sada K, Kakugo A. Role of tubulin C-terminal tail on mechanical properties of microtubule. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 706:149761. [PMID: 38479245 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Tubulin C-terminal tail (CTT) is a disordered segment extended from each tubulin monomer of αβ tubulin heterodimers, the building blocks of microtubules. The tubulin CTT contributes to the cellular function of microtubules such as intracellular transportation by regulating their interaction with other proteins and cell shape regulation by controlling microtubule polymerization dynamics. Although the mechanical integrity of microtubules is crucial for their functions, the role of tubulin CTT on microtubule mechanical properties has remained elusive. In this work, we investigate the role of tubulin CTTs in regulating the mechanical properties of microtubules by estimating the persistence lengths and investigating the buckling behavior of microtubules with and without CTT. We find that microtubules with intact CTTs exhibit twice the rigidity of microtubules lacking tubulin CTTs. Our study will widen the scope of altering microtubule mechanical properties for its application in nano bio-devices and lead to novel therapeutic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases with altered microtubule properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senjuti Nowroz
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan
| | - Syeda Rubaiya Nasrin
- Department of Physics, Division of Physics and Astronomy, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan
| | | | - Takefumi Yamashita
- Laboratory for Systems Biology and Medicine, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 153-8904, Japan; Deaprtment of Physical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hoshi University, Tokyo, 142-8501, Japan
| | - Tomoichiro Kusumoto
- Department of Bioscience and Bioinformatics, Graduate School of Computer Science and Systems Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Iizuka, 820-8502, Japan
| | - Junichi Taira
- Department of Bioscience and Bioinformatics, Graduate School of Computer Science and Systems Engineering, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Iizuka, 820-8502, Japan
| | - Marie Tani
- Department of Physics, Division of Physics and Astronomy, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ichikawa
- Department of Physics, Division of Physics and Astronomy, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan; Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Department of Physics, Division of Physics and Astronomy, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan.
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5
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Zhang W, Fan Y, Chi J. The synergistic effect of multiple organic macromolecules on the formation of calcium oxalate raphides of Musa spp. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2024; 75:2470-2480. [PMID: 38243384 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erae022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Needle-like calcium oxalate crystals called raphides are unique structures in the plant kingdom. Multiple biomacromolecules work together in the regulatory and transportation pathways to form raphides; however, the mechanism by which this occurs remains unknown. Using banana (Musa spp.), this study combined in vivo methods including confocal microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Q Exactive mass spectrometry to identify the main biomolecules, such as vesicles, together with the compositions of lipids and proteins in the crystal chamber, which is the membrane compartment that surrounds each raphide during its formation. Simulations of the vesicle transportation process and the synthesis of elongated calcium oxalate crystals in vitro were then conducted, and the results suggested that the vesicles carrying amorphous calcium oxalate and proteins embedded in raphides are transported along actin filaments. These vesicles subsequently fuse with the crystal chamber, utilizing the proteins embedded in the raphides as a template for the final formation of the structure. Our findings contribute to the fundamental understanding of the regulation of the diverse biomacromolecules that are crucial for raphide formation. Moreover, the implications of these findings extend to other fields such as materials science, and particularly the synthesis of functionalized materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Zhang
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yuke Fan
- College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Jialin Chi
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
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6
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Falconieri A, Coppini A, Raffa V. Microtubules as a signal hub for axon growth in response to mechanical force. Biol Chem 2024; 405:67-77. [PMID: 37674311 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2023-0173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Microtubules are highly polar structures and are characterized by high anisotropy and stiffness. In neurons, they play a key role in the directional transport of vesicles and organelles. In the neuronal projections called axons, they form parallel bundles, mostly oriented with the plus-end towards the axonal termination. Their physico-chemical properties have recently attracted attention as a potential candidate in sensing, processing and transducing physical signals generated by mechanical forces. Here, we discuss the main evidence supporting the role of microtubules as a signal hub for axon growth in response to a traction force. Applying a tension to the axon appears to stabilize the microtubules, which, in turn, coordinate a modulation of axonal transport, local translation and their cross-talk. We speculate on the possible mechanisms modulating microtubule dynamics under tension, based on evidence collected in neuronal and non-neuronal cell types. However, the fundamental question of the causal relationship between these mechanisms is still elusive because the mechano-sensitive element in this chain has not yet been identified.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Allegra Coppini
- Department of Biology, Università di Pisa, Pisa, 56127, Italy
| | - Vittoria Raffa
- Department of Biology, Università di Pisa, Pisa, 56127, Italy
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7
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Nishida K, Matsumura K, Tamura M, Nakamichi T, Shimamori K, Kuragano M, Kabir AMR, Kakugo A, Kotani S, Nishishita N, Tokuraku K. Effects of three microtubule-associated proteins (MAP2, MAP4, and Tau) on microtubules' physical properties and neurite morphology. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8870. [PMID: 37258650 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36073-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The physical properties of cytoskeletal microtubules have a multifaceted effect on the expression of their cellular functions. A superfamily of microtubule-associated proteins, MAP2, MAP4, and tau, promote the polymerization of microtubules, stabilize the formed microtubules, and affect the physical properties of microtubules. Here, we show differences in the effects of these three MAPs on the physical properties of microtubules. When microtubule-binding domain fragments of MAP2, tau, and three MAP4 isoforms were added to microtubules in vitro and observed by fluorescence microscopy, tau-bound microtubules showed a straighter morphology than the microtubules bound by MAP2 and the three MAP4 isoforms. Flexural rigidity was evaluated by the shape of the teardrop pattern formed when microtubules were placed in a hydrodynamic flow, revealing that tau-bound microtubules were the least flexible. When full-length MAPs fused with EGFP were expressed in human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells, the microtubules in apical regions of protrusions expressing tau were straighter than in cells expressing MAP2 and MAP4. On the other hand, the protrusions of tau-expressing cells had the fewest branches. These results suggest that the properties of microtubules, which are regulated by MAPs, contribute to the morphogenesis of neurites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Nishida
- Graduate School of Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Muroran, 050-8585, Japan
| | - Kosuke Matsumura
- Graduate School of Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Muroran, 050-8585, Japan
| | - Miki Tamura
- Graduate School of Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Muroran, 050-8585, Japan
| | - Takuto Nakamichi
- Graduate School of Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Muroran, 050-8585, Japan
| | - Keiya Shimamori
- Graduate School of Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Muroran, 050-8585, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kuragano
- Graduate School of Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Muroran, 050-8585, Japan
| | | | - Akira Kakugo
- Department of Physics, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan
| | - Susumu Kotani
- Faculty of Science, Kanagawa University, Kanagawa, 221-8686, Japan
| | - Naoki Nishishita
- Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Laboratories, Kaneka Corporation, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Kiyotaka Tokuraku
- Graduate School of Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology, Muroran, 050-8585, Japan.
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8
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Kerivan EM, Tobin L, Basil M, Reinemann DN. Molecular and cellular level characterization of cytoskeletal mechanics using a quartz crystal microbalance. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2023; 80:100-111. [PMID: 36891731 PMCID: PMC10272097 DOI: 10.1002/cm.21752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
A quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) is an instrument that has the ability to measure nanogram-level changes in mass on a quartz sensor and is traditionally used to probe surface interactions and assembly kinetics of synthetic systems. The addition of dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) facilitates the study of viscoelastic systems, such as those relevant to molecular and cellular mechanics. Due to real-time recording of frequency and dissipation changes and single protein-level precision, the QCM-D is effective in interrogating the viscoelastic properties of cell surfaces and in vitro cellular components. However, few studies focus on the application of this instrument to cytoskeletal systems, whose dynamic parts create interesting emergent mechanics as ensembles that drive essential tasks, such as division and motility. Here, we review the ability of the QCM-D to characterize key kinetic and mechanical features of the cytoskeleton through in vitro reconstitution and cellular assays and outline how QCM-D studies can yield insightful mechanical data alone and in tandem with other biophysical characterization techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M. Kerivan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677 USA
| | - Lyle Tobin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677 USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677 USA
| | - Mihir Basil
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677 USA
| | - Dana N. Reinemann
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677 USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677 USA
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9
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Abstract
Microtubules are essential cytoskeletal elements found in all eukaryotic cells. The structure and composition of microtubules regulate their function, and the dynamic remodeling of the network by posttranslational modifications and microtubule-associated proteins generates diverse populations of microtubules adapted for various contexts. In the cardiomyocyte, the microtubules must accommodate the unique challenges faced by a highly contractile, rigidly structured, and long-lasting cell. Through their canonical trafficking role and positioning of mRNA, proteins, and organelles, microtubules regulate essential cardiomyocyte functions such as electrical activity, calcium handling, protein translation, and growth. In a more specialized role, posttranslationally modified microtubules form load-bearing structures that regulate myocyte mechanics and mechanotransduction. Modified microtubules proliferate in cardiovascular diseases, creating stabilized resistive elements that impede cardiomyocyte contractility and contribute to contractile dysfunction. In this review, we highlight the most exciting new concepts emerging from recent studies into canonical and noncanonical roles of cardiomyocyte microtubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Uchida
- Department of Physiology, Pennsylvania Muscle Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA;
| | - Emily A Scarborough
- Department of Physiology, Pennsylvania Muscle Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA;
| | - Benjamin L Prosser
- Department of Physiology, Pennsylvania Muscle Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA;
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10
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Reuther C, Santos-Otte P, Grover R, Heldt G, Woehlke G, Diez S. Multiplication of Motor-Driven Microtubules for Nanotechnological Applications. NANO LETTERS 2022; 22:926-934. [PMID: 35050639 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.1c03619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microtubules gliding on motor-functionalized surfaces have been explored for various nanotechnological applications. However, when moving over large distances (several millimeters) and long times (tens of minutes), microtubules are lost due to surface detachment. Here, we demonstrate the multiplication of kinesin-1-driven microtubules that comprises two concurrent processes: (i) severing of microtubules by the enzyme spastin and (ii) elongation of microtubules by self-assembly of tubulin dimers at the microtubule ends. We managed to balance the individual processes such that the average length of the microtubules stayed roughly constant over time while their number increased. Moreover, we show microtubule multiplication in physical networks with topographical channel structures. Our method is expected to broaden the toolbox for microtubule-based in vitro applications by counteracting the microtubule loss from substrate surfaces. Among others, this will enable upscaling of network-based biocomputation, where it is vital to increase the number of microtubules during operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cordula Reuther
- B CUBE - Center for Molecular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Paula Santos-Otte
- B CUBE - Center for Molecular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Rahul Grover
- B CUBE - Center for Molecular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Georg Heldt
- Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems, 09126 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Günther Woehlke
- Center for Functional Protein Assemblies, Technische Universität München, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Stefan Diez
- B CUBE - Center for Molecular Bioengineering, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
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11
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Kabir AMR, Munmun T, Hayashi T, Yasuda S, Kimura AP, Kinoshita M, Murata T, Sada K, Kakugo A. Controlling the Rigidity of Kinesin-Propelled Microtubules in an In Vitro Gliding Assay Using the Deep-Sea Osmolyte Trimethylamine N-Oxide. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:3796-3803. [PMID: 35128287 PMCID: PMC8811939 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c06699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The biomolecular motor protein kinesin and its associated filamentous protein microtubule have been finding important nanotechnological applications in the recent years. Rigidity of the microtubules, which are propelled by kinesin motors in an in vitro gliding assay, is an important metric that determines the success of utilization of microtubules and kinesins in various applications, such as transportation, sensing, sorting, molecular robotics, etc. Therefore, regulating the rigidity of kinesin-propelled microtubules has been critical. In this work, we report a simple strategy to regulate the rigidity of kinesin-propelled microtubules in an in vitro gliding assay. We demonstrate that rigidity of the microtubules, propelled by kinesins in an in vitro gliding assay, can be modulated simply by using the natural osmolyte trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). By varying the concentration of TMAO in the gliding assay, the rigidity of microtubules can be modulated over a wide range. Based on this strategy, we are able to reduce the persistence length of microtubules, a measure of microtubule rigidity, ∼8 fold by using TMAO at the concentration of 1.5 M. Furthermore, we found that the decreased rigidity of the kinesin-propelled microtubules can be restored upon elimination of TMAO from the in vitro gliding assay. Alteration in the rigidity of microtubules is accounted for by the non-uniformity of the force applied by kinesins along the microtubules in the presence of TMAO. This work offers a facile strategy to reversibly regulate the rigidity of kinesin-propelled microtubules in situ, which would widen the applications of the biomolecular motor kinesin and its associated protein microtubule in various fields.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tasrina Munmun
- Graduate
School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Hayashi
- Institute
of Advanced Energy, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yasuda
- Graduate
School of Science, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
- Membrane
Protein Research and Molecular Chirality Research Centers, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
| | - Atsushi P. Kimura
- Faculty
of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
- Graduate
School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kinoshita
- Institute
of Advanced Energy, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan
- Graduate
School of Science, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
- Membrane
Protein Research and Molecular Chirality Research Centers, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
| | - Takeshi Murata
- Graduate
School of Science, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
- Membrane
Protein Research and Molecular Chirality Research Centers, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Faculty
of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
- Graduate
School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty
of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
- Graduate
School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
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12
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Keya JJ, Kabir AMR, Akter M, Kakugo A. Dynamic Pattern Formation of Active Matters Triggered by Mechanical Stimuli. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2430:193-203. [PMID: 35476333 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1983-4_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In vitro gliding assay of the filamentous protein microtubule (MT) on a kinesin motor protein coated surface has appeared as a classic platform for studying active matters. At high densities, the gliding MTs spontaneously align and self-organize into fascinating large-scale patterns. Application of mechanical stimuli e.g., stretching stimuli to the MTs gliding on a kinesin-coated surface can modulate their self-organization and patterns according to the boundary conditions. Depending on the mode of stretching, MT at high densities change their moving direction and exhibit various kinds of patterns such as stream, zigzag and vortex pattern. In this chapter, we discuss detail procedures on how to apply mechanical stimuli to the moving MTs on a kinesin coated substrate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mousumi Akter
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
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13
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Nasrin SR, Kabir AMR, Kakugo A. Cargo Transport by Microtubule-Associated Motor Protein Along Mechanically Deformed Microtubules. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2430:291-302. [PMID: 35476340 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1983-4_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical forces play pivotal roles in regulating various cellular functions. Biomolecular motor protein-driven intracellular transportation is one example which is affected by mechanical forces, although the mechanism at molecular level is unknown. In this chapter, we describe deformation of microtubules under compressive stress and we show that such deformation of microtubules affects the kinetics of dynein-driven cargo transportation along the microtubules. The extent of alteration in the kinetics of dynein-driven transportation is found strongly dependent on the extent of deformation of microtubules under compressive stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
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14
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Nasrin SR, Afroze F, Kabir AMR, Kakugo A. Mechanical Deformation of Microtubules on a Two-Dimensional Elastic Medium. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2430:303-314. [PMID: 35476341 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1983-4_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microtubule, the most rigid filamentous protein in cytoskeleton, plays significant roles in cellular mechano-transduction and mechano-regulation of cellular functions. In cells, the mechanical stress serves as a prevalent stimulus to frequently cause deformation of the microtubules participating in various cellular events. While the experimental and simulation-based approaches have confirmed the role of mechanical stress to tune mechanical properties of microtubule. Yet, the effect of mechanical force on the structural stability and the mechanism of microtubule deformation have remained obscure. Here, we describe the mechanical stress-induced deformation of microtubules using a custom-made mechanical device. We designed the device in a way which allows the microtubules to undergo deformation as response to the applied stress while attached on a two-dimensional elastic substrate through interaction with microtubule-associated motor protein, kinesin. We provide here the method to cause controlled bucking or fragmentation of microtubules by applying compressive or tensile stress on the microtubules, respectively. Such study is crucial to understand the mechanism of deformation in microtubules in cellular environment and their consequences in physiological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farhana Afroze
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
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15
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Araki S, Beppu K, Kabir AMR, Kakugo A, Maeda YT. Controlling Collective Motion of Kinesin-Driven Microtubules via Patterning of Topographic Landscapes. NANO LETTERS 2021; 21:10478-10485. [PMID: 34874725 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.1c03952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Biomolecular motor proteins that generate forces by consuming chemical energy obtained from ATP hydrolysis play pivotal roles in organizing cytoskeletal structures in living cells. An ability to control cytoskeletal structures would benefit programmable protein patterning; however, our current knowledge is limited because of the underdevelopment of engineering approaches for controlling pattern formation. Here, we demonstrate the controlling of self-assembled patterns of microtubules (MTs) driven by kinesin motors by designing the boundary shape in fabricated microwells. By manipulating the collision angle of gliding MTs defined by the boundary shape, the self-assembly of MTs can be controlled to form protruding bundle and bridge patterns. Corroborated by the theory of self-propelled rods, we further show that the alignment of MTs determines the transition between the assembled patterns, providing a blueprint to reconstruct bridge structures in microchannels. Our findings introduce the tailoring of the self-organization of cytoskeletons and motor proteins for nanotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunya Araki
- Department of Physics, Kyushu University, Motooka 744, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Kazusa Beppu
- Department of Physics, Kyushu University, Motooka 744, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Arif Md Rashedul Kabir
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Kita 10, Nishi 8, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0810, Hokkaido Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Kita 10, Nishi 8, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0810, Hokkaido Japan
| | - Yusuke T Maeda
- Department of Physics, Kyushu University, Motooka 744, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
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16
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Hartmann FP, Tinturier E, Julien JL, Leblanc-Fournier N. Between Stress and Response: Function and Localization of Mechanosensitive Ca 2+ Channels in Herbaceous and Perennial Plants. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11043. [PMID: 34681698 PMCID: PMC8538497 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past three decades, how plants sense and respond to mechanical stress has become a flourishing field of research. The pivotal role of mechanosensing in organogenesis and acclimation was demonstrated in various plants, and links are emerging between gene regulatory networks and physical forces exerted on tissues. However, how plant cells convert physical signals into chemical signals remains unclear. Numerous studies have focused on the role played by mechanosensitive (MS) calcium ion channels MCA, Piezo and OSCA. To complement these data, we combined data mining and visualization approaches to compare the tissue-specific expression of these genes, taking advantage of recent single-cell RNA-sequencing data obtained in the root apex and the stem of Arabidopsis and the Populus stem. These analyses raise questions about the relationships between the localization of MS channels and the localization of stress and responses. Such tissue-specific expression studies could help to elucidate the functions of MS channels. Finally, we stress the need for a better understanding of such mechanisms in trees, which are facing mechanical challenges of much higher magnitudes and over much longer time scales than herbaceous plants, and we mention practical applications of plant responsiveness to mechanical stress in agriculture and forestry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félix P. Hartmann
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRAE, PIAF, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; (E.T.); (J.-L.J.)
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17
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Cell stretchers and the LINC complex in mechanotransduction. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 702:108829. [PMID: 33716002 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
How cells respond to mechanical forces from the surrounding environment is critical for cell survival and function. The LINC complex is a central component in the mechanotransduction pathway that transmits mechanical information from the cell surface to the nucleus. Through LINC complex functionality, the nucleus is able to respond to mechanical stress by altering nuclear structure, chromatin organization, and gene expression. The use of specialized devices that apply mechanical strain to cells have been central to investigating how mechanotransduction occurs, how cells respond to mechanical stress, and the role of the LINC complexes in these processes. A large variety of designs have been reported for these devices, with the most common type being cell stretchers. Here we highlight some of the salient features of cell stretchers and suggest some key parameters that should be considered when using these devices. We provide a brief overview of how the LINC complexes contribute to the cellular responses to mechanical strain. And finally, we suggest that stretchers may be a useful tool to study aging.
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18
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Kabir AMR, Sada K, Kakugo A. Controlling the length of self-assembled microtubes through mechanical stress-induced scission. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 57:468-471. [PMID: 33367340 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc07327j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We demonstrate that mechanical stress-induced scission is an effective strategy to control the length of self-assembled microtubes. By applying mechanical stress with variable magnitude and mode, the length of microtubes can be tightly regulated. We have succeeded in reducing the average length of microtubes ∼twenty-fold through stretching and compression. The mechanical stress-induced scission of self-assembled, long microtubes into smaller fragments has no adverse effect on the functionality of the microtubes. This work will foster the applications of length-controlled, self-assembled microtubes in various fields.
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19
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A new approach to explore the mechanoresponsiveness of microtubules and its application in studying dynamic soft interfaces. Polym J 2020. [DOI: 10.1038/s41428-020-00415-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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20
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Extremely Low Forces Induce Extreme Axon Growth. J Neurosci 2020; 40:4997-5007. [PMID: 32444384 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3075-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Stretch-growth has been defined as a process that extends axons via the application of mechanical forces. In the present article, we used a protocol based on magnetic nanoparticles (NPs) for labeling the entire axon tract of hippocampal neurons, and an external magnetic field gradient to generate a dragging force. We found that the application of forces below 10 pN induces growth at a rate of 0.66 ± 0.02 µm h-1 pN-1 Calcium imaging confirmed the strong increase in elongation rate, in comparison with the condition of tip-growth. Enhanced growth in stretched axons was also accompanied by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) accumulation and, accordingly, it was blocked by an inhibition of translation. Stretch-growth was also found to stimulate axonal branching, glutamatergic synaptic transmission, and neuronal excitability. Moreover, stretched axons showed increased microtubule (MT) density and MT assembly was key to sustaining stretch-growth, suggesting a possible role of tensile forces in MT translocation/assembly. Additionally, our data showed that stretched axons do not respond to BDNF signaling, suggesting interference between the two pathways. As these extremely low mechanical forces are physiologically relevant, stretch-growth could be an important endogenous mechanism of axon growth, with a potential for designing novel strategies for axonal regrowth.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Axon growth involves motion, and motion is driven by forces. The growth cone (GC) itself can generate very low intracellular forces by inducing a drastic cytoskeleton remodeling, in response to signaling molecules. Here, we investigated the key role of intracellular force as an endogenous regulator of axon outgrowth, which it has been neglected for decades because of the lack of methodologies to investigate the topic. Our results indicate a critical role of force in promoting axon growth by facilitating microtubule (MT) polymerization.
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21
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Kabir AMR, Sada K, Kakugo A. Breaking of buckled microtubules is mediated by kinesins. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 524:249-254. [PMID: 31983434 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.01.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Microtubule is the most rigid component of eukaryotic cytoskeleton that plays pivotal roles in many important cellular events. Microtubules are known to undergo bending or buckling in cells which often results in breaking of this cytoskeletal protein filament. Various cellular events such as cell migration, chromosome segregation, etc. are dependent on the buckling induced breaking of microtubules. However, the reason behind the breaking of buckled microtubules in cell has remained obscure yet. In this work, we have demonstrated breaking of microtubules on a 2D elastic medium by applying compressive stress. The applied compressive stress caused buckling of the microtubules which ultimately resulted in their breaking. We show that breaking of the buckled microtubules cannot be accounted for by considering the changes in curvature of the microtubules due to mechanical deformation. Our results confirm that, it is the interaction of kinesin, a microtubule-associated motor protein, with microtubules which plays the key role in breaking of the buckled microtubules on the 2D elastic medium. The breaking of buckled microtubules is ascribed to decrease in rigidity of microtubules upon interaction with kinesins. This work for the first time confirms the involvement of a microtubule-associated motor protein in breaking of microtubules under compressive stress, which will help further clarify the mechanism of breaking of buckled microtubules in cells and its significance in the cellular events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan; Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan; Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan.
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22
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Nasrin SR, Afrin T, Kabir AMR, Inoue D, Torisawa T, Oiwa K, Sada K, Kakugo A. Regulation of Biomolecular-Motor-Driven Cargo Transport by Microtubules under Mechanical Stress. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:1875-1883. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.9b01010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Rubaiya Nasrin
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Tanjina Afrin
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Daisuke Inoue
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Takayuki Torisawa
- Cell Architecture Laboratory, Structural Biology Center, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima 411-8540, Japan
- Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Mishima 411-8540, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Oiwa
- Advanced ICT Research Institute, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Kobe 651-2492, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Hokkaido, Japan
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Hokkaido, Japan
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Hokkaido, Japan
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23
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Nasrin SR, Kabir AMR, Sada K, Kakugo A. Effect of microtubule immobilization by glutaraldehyde on kinesin-driven cargo transport. Polym J 2020. [DOI: 10.1038/s41428-020-0309-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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24
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Shimizu T, Ding W, Kameta N. Soft-Matter Nanotubes: A Platform for Diverse Functions and Applications. Chem Rev 2020; 120:2347-2407. [PMID: 32013405 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.9b00509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Self-assembled organic nanotubes made of single or multiple molecular components can be classified into soft-matter nanotubes (SMNTs) by contrast with hard-matter nanotubes, such as carbon and other inorganic nanotubes. To date, diverse self-assembly processes and elaborate template procedures using rationally designed organic molecules have produced suitable tubular architectures with definite dimensions, structural complexity, and hierarchy for expected functions and applications. Herein, we comprehensively discuss every functions and possible applications of a wide range of SMNTs as bulk materials or single components. This Review highlights valuable contributions mainly in the past decade. Fifteen different families of SMNTs are discussed from the viewpoints of chemical, physical, biological, and medical applications, as well as action fields (e.g., interior, wall, exterior, whole structure, and ensemble of nanotubes). Chemical applications of the SMNTs are associated with encapsulating materials and sensors. SMNTs also behave, while sometimes undergoing morphological transformation, as a catalyst, template, liquid crystal, hydro-/organogel, superhydrophobic surface, and micron size engine. Physical functions pertain to ferro-/piezoelectricity and energy migration/storage, leading to the applications to electrodes or supercapacitors, and mechanical reinforcement. Biological functions involve artificial chaperone, transmembrane transport, nanochannels, and channel reactors. Finally, medical functions range over drug delivery, nonviral gene transfer vector, and virus trap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshimi Shimizu
- Nanomaterials Research Institute, Department of Materials and Chemistry , National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology , Tsukuba Central 5, 1-1-1 Higashi , Tsukuba , Ibaraki 305-8565 , Japan
| | - Wuxiao Ding
- Nanomaterials Research Institute, Department of Materials and Chemistry , National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology , Tsukuba Central 5, 1-1-1 Higashi , Tsukuba , Ibaraki 305-8565 , Japan
| | - Naohiro Kameta
- Nanomaterials Research Institute, Department of Materials and Chemistry , National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology , Tsukuba Central 5, 1-1-1 Higashi , Tsukuba , Ibaraki 305-8565 , Japan
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25
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Inoue D, Gutmann G, Nitta T, Kabir AMR, Konagaya A, Tokuraku K, Sada K, Hess H, Kakugo A. Adaptation of Patterns of Motile Filaments under Dynamic Boundary Conditions. ACS NANO 2019; 13:12452-12460. [PMID: 31585030 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b01450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Boundary conditions are important for pattern formation in active matter. However, it is still not well-understood how alterations in the boundary conditions (dynamic boundary conditions) impact pattern formation. To elucidate the effect of dynamic boundary conditions on the pattern formation by active matter, we investigate an in vitro gliding assay of microtubules on a deformable soft substrate. The dynamic boundary conditions were realized by applying mechanical stress through stretching and compression of the substrate during the gliding assay. A single cycle of stretch-and-compression (relaxation) of the substrate induces perpendicular alignment of microtubules relative to the stretch axis, whereas repeated cycles resulted in zigzag patterns of microtubules. Our model shows that the orientation angles of microtubules correspond to the direction to attain smooth movement without buckling, which is further amplified by the collective migration of the microtubules. Our results provide an insight into understanding the rich dynamics in self-organization arising in active matter subjected to time-dependent boundary conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Inoue
- Faculty of Science , Hokkaido University , Sapporo 060-0810 , Japan
| | - Greg Gutmann
- Department of Computer Science , Tokyo Institute of Technology , Yokohama 226-8502 , Japan
| | - Takahiro Nitta
- Applied Physics Course, Faculty of Engineering , Gifu University , Gifu 501-1193 , Japan
| | | | - Akihiko Konagaya
- Department of Computer Science , Tokyo Institute of Technology , Yokohama 226-8502 , Japan
| | - Kiyotaka Tokuraku
- Department of Applied Sciences , Muroran Institute of Technology , Muroran 050-8585 , Japan
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Faculty of Science , Hokkaido University , Sapporo 060-0810 , Japan
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering , Hokkaido University , Sapporo 060-0810 , Japan
| | - Henry Hess
- Department of Biomedical Engineering , Columbia University , New York , New York 10027 , United States
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty of Science , Hokkaido University , Sapporo 060-0810 , Japan
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering , Hokkaido University , Sapporo 060-0810 , Japan
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26
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Hahn I, Voelzmann A, Liew YT, Costa-Gomes B, Prokop A. The model of local axon homeostasis - explaining the role and regulation of microtubule bundles in axon maintenance and pathology. Neural Dev 2019; 14:11. [PMID: 31706327 PMCID: PMC6842214 DOI: 10.1186/s13064-019-0134-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Axons are the slender, cable-like, up to meter-long projections of neurons that electrically wire our brains and bodies. In spite of their challenging morphology, they usually need to be maintained for an organism's lifetime. This makes them key lesion sites in pathological processes of ageing, injury and neurodegeneration. The morphology and physiology of axons crucially depends on the parallel bundles of microtubules (MTs), running all along to serve as their structural backbones and highways for life-sustaining cargo transport and organelle dynamics. Understanding how these bundles are formed and then maintained will provide important explanations for axon biology and pathology. Currently, much is known about MTs and the proteins that bind and regulate them, but very little about how these factors functionally integrate to regulate axon biology. As an attempt to bridge between molecular mechanisms and their cellular relevance, we explain here the model of local axon homeostasis, based on our own experiments in Drosophila and published data primarily from vertebrates/mammals as well as C. elegans. The model proposes that (1) the physical forces imposed by motor protein-driven transport and dynamics in the confined axonal space, are a life-sustaining necessity, but pose a strong bias for MT bundles to become disorganised. (2) To counterbalance this risk, MT-binding and -regulating proteins of different classes work together to maintain and protect MT bundles as necessary transport highways. Loss of balance between these two fundamental processes can explain the development of axonopathies, in particular those linking to MT-regulating proteins, motors and transport defects. With this perspective in mind, we hope that more researchers incorporate MTs into their work, thus enhancing our chances of deciphering the complex regulatory networks that underpin axon biology and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Hahn
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, School of Biology, Manchester, UK
| | - André Voelzmann
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, School of Biology, Manchester, UK
| | - Yu-Ting Liew
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, School of Biology, Manchester, UK
| | - Beatriz Costa-Gomes
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, School of Biology, Manchester, UK
| | - Andreas Prokop
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, School of Biology, Manchester, UK.
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27
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Abstract
Mechanical signals play many roles in cell and developmental biology. Several mechanotransduction pathways have been uncovered, but the mechanisms identified so far only address the perception of stress intensity. Mechanical stresses are tensorial in nature, and thus provide dual mechanical information: stress magnitude and direction. Here we propose a parsimonious mechanism for the perception of the principal stress direction. In vitro experiments show that microtubules are stabilized under tension. Based on these results, we explore the possibility that such microtubule stabilization operates in vivo, most notably in plant cells where turgor-driven tensile stresses exceed greatly those observed in animal cells. Cellular mechanical stress is a key determinant of cell shape and function, but how the cell senses stress direction is unclear. In this Perspective the authors propose that microtubules autonomously sense stress directions in plant cells, where tensile stresses are higher than in animal cells.
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28
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An estimate to the first approximation of microtubule rupture force. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2019; 48:569-577. [PMID: 31134309 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-019-01371-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Microtubule mechanical properties are essential for understanding basic cellular processes, including cell motility and division, but the forces that result in microtubule rupture or breakage have not yet been measured directly. These forces are essential to understand the mechanical properties of the cytoskeleton and responses by cells to both normal conditions and stress caused by injury or disease. Here we estimate the force required to rupture a microtubule by analyzing kinesin-14 Ncd motor-induced microtubule breakage in ensemble motility assays. We model the breakage events as caused by Ncd motors pulling or pushing on single microtubules that are clamped at one end by other motors attached to the glass surface. The number of pulling or pushing Ncd motors is approximated from the length of the microtubule bound to the surface and the forces produced by the pulling or pushing motors are estimated from forces produced by the Ncd motor in laser-trap assays, reported by others. Our analysis provides an estimate, to the first approximation, of ~ 500 pN for the minimal force required to rupture a 13-pf microtubule. The value we report is close to the forces estimated from microtubule stretching/fragmentation experiments and overlaps with the forces applied by AFM in microtubule indentation assays that destabilize microtubules and break microtubule protofilaments. It is also consistent with the forces required to disrupt protein noncovalent bonds in force spectroscopy experiments. These findings are relevant to microtubule deformation and breakage caused by cellular tension in vivo.
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29
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Kinesin motor density and dynamics in gliding microtubule motility. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7206. [PMID: 31076627 PMCID: PMC6510761 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43749-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Kinesin motors and their associated filaments, microtubules, are essential to many biological processes. The motor and filament system can be reconstituted in vitro with the surface-adhered motors transporting the filaments along the surface. In this format, the system has been used to study active self-assembly and to power microdevices or perform analyte detection. However, fundamental properties of the system, such as the spacing of the kinesin motors bound to the microtubule and the dynamics of binding, remain poorly understood. We show that Fluorescence Interference Contrast (FLIC) microscopy can illuminate the exact height of the microtubule, which for a sufficiently low surface density of kinesin, reveals the locations of the bound motors. We examine the spacing of the kinesin motors on the microtubules at various kinesin surface densities and compare the results with theory. FLIC reveals that the system is highly dynamic, with kinesin binding and unbinding along the length of the microtubule as it is transported along the surface.
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30
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Peet DR, Burroughs NJ, Cross RA. Kinesin expands and stabilizes the GDP-microtubule lattice. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2018; 13:386-391. [PMID: 29531331 PMCID: PMC5937683 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-018-0084-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Kinesin-1 is a nanoscale molecular motor that walks towards the fast-growing (plus) ends of microtubules, hauling molecular cargo to specific reaction sites in cells. Kinesin-driven transport is central to the self-organization of eukaryotic cells and shows great promise as a tool for nano-engineering 1 . Recent work hints that kinesin may also play a role in modulating the stability of its microtubule track, both in vitro2,3 and in vivo 4 , but the results are conflicting5-7 and the mechanisms are unclear. Here, we report a new dimension to the kinesin-microtubule interaction, whereby strong-binding state (adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-bound and apo) kinesin-1 motor domains inhibit the shrinkage of guanosine diphosphate (GDP) microtubules by up to two orders of magnitude and expand their lattice spacing by ~1.6%. Our data reveal an unexpected mechanism by which the mechanochemical cycles of kinesin and tubulin interlock, and so allow motile kinesins to influence the structure, stability and mechanics of their microtubule track.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Peet
- Centre for Mechanochemical Cell Biology, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
- Warwick Systems Biology Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Nigel J Burroughs
- Warwick Systems Biology Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Mathematics Institute, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Robert A Cross
- Centre for Mechanochemical Cell Biology, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK.
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31
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Hess H, Ross JL. Non-equilibrium assembly of microtubules: from molecules to autonomous chemical robots. Chem Soc Rev 2017; 46:5570-5587. [PMID: 28329028 PMCID: PMC5603359 DOI: 10.1039/c7cs00030h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Biological systems have evolved to harness non-equilibrium processes from the molecular to the macro scale. It is currently a grand challenge of chemistry, materials science, and engineering to understand and mimic biological systems that have the ability to autonomously sense stimuli, process these inputs, and respond by performing mechanical work. New chemical systems are responding to the challenge and form the basis for future responsive, adaptive, and active materials. In this article, we describe a particular biochemical-biomechanical network based on the microtubule cytoskeletal filament - itself a non-equilibrium chemical system. We trace the non-equilibrium aspects of the system from molecules to networks and describe how the cell uses this system to perform active work in essential processes. Finally, we discuss how microtubule-based engineered systems can serve as testbeds for autonomous chemical robots composed of biological and synthetic components.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hess
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, USA.
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32
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Liu N, Pidaparti R, Wang X. Effect of amino acid mutations on intra-dimer tubulin–tubulin binding strength of microtubules. Integr Biol (Camb) 2017; 9:925-933. [DOI: 10.1039/c7ib00113d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Binding strength inside αβ-tubulin dimers of a microtubule (MT) with atomic resolutions are of importance in determining the structural stability of the MT as well as designing self-assembled functional structures from it. Through simulations, this study proposes a new strategy to tune the binding strength inside microtubules through point mutations of amino acids on the intra-dimer interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Liu
- College of Engineering
- University of Georgia
- Athens
- USA
| | | | - Xianqiao Wang
- College of Engineering
- University of Georgia
- Athens
- USA
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33
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Afrin T, Kabir AMR, Sada K, Kakugo A, Nitta T. Buckling of microtubules on elastic media via breakable bonds. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 480:132-138. [PMID: 27693793 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.09.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Buckling of microtubules observed in cells has been reconstructed on a two-dimensional elastic medium consisting of kinesins grafted over compressible substrates, enabling precise control of experimental conditions and quantitative analysis. However, interpretations of the observations have ambiguities due to inevitable experimental difficulties. In this study, with computer simulations, we investigated importance of the mode of interaction of microtubule with elastic medium in the buckling behavior of microtubule. By taking into consideration of forced-induced detachments of kinesins from microtubules, our simulations reproduced the previous experimental results, and showed deviations from predictions of the elastic foundation model. On the other hand, with hypothetical linkers permanently bound to microtubules, our simulation reproduced the predictions of the elastic foundation model. By analyzing the results of the simulations, we investigated as to why the difference arose. These findings indicate the importance of the mode of interaction of microtubule with the medium in the buckling behavior of microtubule. Our findings would bring new insights on buckling of microtubules in living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanjina Afrin
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810 Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Kazuki Sada
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810 Hokkaido, Japan; Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810 Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810 Hokkaido, Japan; Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810 Hokkaido, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Nitta
- Applied Physics Course, Gifu University, Gifu, 501-1193 Gifu, Japan.
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34
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Inoue D, Nitta T, Kabir AMR, Sada K, Gong JP, Konagaya A, Kakugo A. Sensing surface mechanical deformation using active probes driven by motor proteins. Nat Commun 2016; 7:12557. [PMID: 27694937 PMCID: PMC5059436 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms12557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Studying mechanical deformation at the surface of soft materials has been challenging due to the difficulty in separating surface deformation from the bulk elasticity of the materials. Here, we introduce a new approach for studying the surface mechanical deformation of a soft material by utilizing a large number of self-propelled microprobes driven by motor proteins on the surface of the material. Information about the surface mechanical deformation of the soft material is obtained through changes in mobility of the microprobes wandering across the surface of the soft material. The active microprobes respond to mechanical deformation of the surface and readily change their velocity and direction depending on the extent and mode of surface deformation. This highly parallel and reliable method of sensing mechanical deformation at the surface of soft materials is expected to find applications that explore surface mechanics of soft materials and consequently would greatly benefit the surface science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Inoue
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Takahiro Nitta
- Applied Physics Course, Gifu University, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | | | - Kazuki Sada
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Jian Ping Gong
- Faculty of Advanced Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Akihiko Konagaya
- Department of Computational Intelligence and Systems Science, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
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35
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Krieg E, Bastings MMC, Besenius P, Rybtchinski B. Supramolecular Polymers in Aqueous Media. Chem Rev 2016; 116:2414-77. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.5b00369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 527] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pol Besenius
- Institute
of Organic Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Boris Rybtchinski
- Department
of Organic Chemistry, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
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36
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Kabir AMR, Inoue D, Afrin T, Mayama H, Sada K, Kakugo A. Buckling of Microtubules on a 2D Elastic Medium. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17222. [PMID: 26596905 PMCID: PMC4657045 DOI: 10.1038/srep17222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
We have demonstrated compression stress induced mechanical deformation of microtubules (MTs) on a two-dimensional elastic medium and investigated the role of compression strain, strain rate, and a MT-associated protein in the deformation of MTs. We show that MTs, supported on a two-dimensional substrate by a MT-associated protein kinesin, undergo buckling when they are subjected to compression stress. Compression strain strongly affects the extent of buckling, although compression rate has no substantial effect on the buckling of MTs. Most importantly, the density of kinesin is found to play the key role in determining the buckling mode of MTs. We have made a comparison between our experimental results and the ‘elastic foundation model’ that theoretically predicts the buckling behavior of MTs and its connection to MT-associated proteins. Taking into consideration the role of kinesin in altering the mechanical property of MTs, we are able to explain the buckling behavior of MTs by the elastic foundation model. This work will help understand the buckling mechanism of MTs and its connection to MT-associated proteins or surrounding medium, and consequently will aid in obtaining a meticulous scenario of the compression stress induced deformation of MTs in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daisuke Inoue
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Tanjina Afrin
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Mayama
- Department of Chemistry, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan.,Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan.,Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
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37
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Inoue D, Mahmot B, Kabir AMR, Farhana TI, Tokuraku K, Sada K, Konagaya A, Kakugo A. Depletion force induced collective motion of microtubules driven by kinesin. NANOSCALE 2015; 7:18054-61. [PMID: 26260025 DOI: 10.1039/c5nr02213d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Collective motion is a fascinating example of coordinated behavior of self-propelled objects, which is often associated with the formation of large scale patterns. Nowadays, the in vitro gliding assay is being considered a model system to experimentally investigate various aspects of group behavior and pattern formation by self-propelled objects. In the in vitro gliding assay, cytoskeletal filaments F-actin or microtubules are driven by the surface immobilized associated biomolecular motors myosin or dynein respectively. Although the F-actin/myosin or microtubule/dynein system was found to be promising in understanding the collective motion and pattern formation by self-propelled objects, the most widely used biomolecular motor system microtubule/kinesin could not be successfully employed so far in this regard. Failure in exhibiting collective motion by kinesin driven microtubules is attributed to the intrinsic properties of kinesin, which was speculated to affect the behavior of individual gliding microtubules and mutual interactions among them. In this work, for the first time, we have demonstrated the collective motion of kinesin driven microtubules by regulating the mutual interaction among the gliding microtubules, by employing a depletion force among them. Proper regulation of the mutual interaction among the gliding microtubules through the employment of the depletion force was found to allow the exhibition of collective motion and stream pattern formation by the microtubules. This work offers a universal means for demonstrating the collective motion using the in vitro gliding assay of biomolecular motor systems and will help obtain a meticulous understanding of the fascinating coordinated behavior and pattern formation by self-propelled objects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Inoue
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan.
| | - Bulbul Mahmot
- Department of Computational Intelligence and Systems Science, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, 226-8501, Japan
| | | | - Tamanna Ishrat Farhana
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan
| | - Kiyotaka Tokuraku
- Department of Applied Sciences, Muroran Institute of Technology, Muroran, 050-8585, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan. and Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan
| | - Akihiko Konagaya
- Department of Computational Intelligence and Systems Science, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, 226-8501, Japan
| | - Akira Kakugo
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan. and Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0810, Japan
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38
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Wada S, Kabir AMR, Ito M, Inoue D, Sada K, Kakugo A. Effect of length and rigidity of microtubules on the size of ring-shaped assemblies obtained through active self-organization. SOFT MATTER 2015; 11:1151-1157. [PMID: 25557641 DOI: 10.1039/c4sm02292k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The microtubule (MT)-kinesin biomolecular motor system has attracted considerable attention due to its possible applications in artificial biomachines. Recently, an active self-organization (AcSO) method has been established to integrate MT filaments into highly organized assembled structures. The ring-shaped MT assembly, one of the structures derived from the AcSO of MTs, can convert the translational motion of MTs into rotational motion. Due to this attractive feature, the ring-shaped MT assembly appears to be a promising candidate for developing artificial devices and for future nanotechnological applications. In this work, we have investigated the effect of length and rigidity of the MT filaments on the size of the ring-shaped MT assembly in the AcSO process. We show that the size of the ring-shaped MT assembly can be controlled by tuning the length and rigidity of MT filaments employed in the AcSO. Longer and stiffer MT filaments led to larger ring-shaped assemblies through AcSO, whereas AcSO of shorter and less stiff MT filaments produced smaller ring-shaped assemblies. This work might be important for the development of biomolecular motor based artificial biomachines, especially where size control of ring-shaped MT assembly will play an important role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoki Wada
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan.
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