1
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Chen YJ, Tseng SC, Chen PT, Hwang E. The non-mitotic role of HMMR in regulating the localization of TPX2 and the dynamics of microtubules in neurons. eLife 2024; 13:RP94547. [PMID: 38904660 PMCID: PMC11192530 DOI: 10.7554/elife.94547] [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] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
A functional nervous system is built upon the proper morphogenesis of neurons to establish the intricate connection between them. The microtubule cytoskeleton is known to play various essential roles in this morphogenetic process. While many microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) have been demonstrated to participate in neuronal morphogenesis, the function of many more remains to be determined. This study focuses on a MAP called HMMR in mice, which was originally identified as a hyaluronan binding protein and later found to possess microtubule and centrosome binding capacity. HMMR exhibits high abundance on neuronal microtubules and altering the level of HMMR significantly affects the morphology of neurons. Instead of confining to the centrosome(s) like cells in mitosis, HMMR localizes to microtubules along axons and dendrites. Furthermore, transiently expressing HMMR enhances the stability of neuronal microtubules and increases the formation frequency of growing microtubules along the neurites. HMMR regulates the microtubule localization of a non-centrosomal microtubule nucleator TPX2 along the neurite, offering an explanation for how HMMR contributes to the promotion of growing microtubules. This study sheds light on how cells utilize proteins involved in mitosis for non-mitotic functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ju Chen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Bioengineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Shun-Cheng Tseng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Changhua Christian HospitalChanghuaTaiwan
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Peng-Tzu Chen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Bioengineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Eric Hwang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Bioengineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
- Center for Intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio-devices (IDS2B), National Yang Ming Chiao Tung UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
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2
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Cada AK, Mizuno N. Molecular cartography within axons. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2024; 88:102358. [PMID: 38608424 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2024.102358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Recent advances in imaging methods begin to further illuminate the inner workings of neurons. Views of the axonal landscape through the lens of in situ cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) provide a high-resolution atlas of the macromolecular organization in near-native conditions, leading to our growing understanding of the vital roles of compositional and structural organization in maintaining neuronal homeostasis. In this review, we discuss the latest observations concerning the fundamental components found within neuronal compartments, with special emphasis on the axon, branch points, and growth cone. We describe the similarity and difference in organization of organelles and molecules in varying compartments. Finally, we highlight outstanding questions on the dynamics and localization of various components along the axon that may be answered using orthogonal approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- A King Cada
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Naoko Mizuno
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA; National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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3
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Aiken J, Holzbaur ELF. Spastin locally amplifies microtubule dynamics to pattern the axon for presynaptic cargo delivery. Curr Biol 2024; 34:1687-1704.e8. [PMID: 38554708 PMCID: PMC11042977 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.03.010] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Neurons rely on the long-range trafficking of synaptic components to form and maintain the complex neural networks that encode the human experience. With a single neuron capable of forming thousands of distinct en passant synapses along its axon, spatially precise delivery of the necessary synaptic components is paramount. How these synapses are patterned, as well as how the efficient delivery of synaptic components is regulated, remains largely unknown. Here, we reveal a novel role for the microtubule (MT)-severing enzyme spastin in locally enhancing MT polymerization to influence presynaptic cargo pausing and retention along the axon. In human neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), we identify sites stably enriched for presynaptic components along the axon prior to the robust assembly of mature presynapses apposed by postsynaptic contacts. These sites are capable of cycling synaptic vesicles, are enriched with spastin, and are hotspots for new MT growth and synaptic vesicle precursor (SVP) pausing/retention. The disruption of neuronal spastin level or activity, by CRISPRi-mediated depletion, transient overexpression, or pharmacologic inhibition of enzymatic activity, interrupts the localized enrichment of dynamic MT plus ends and diminishes SVP accumulation. Using an innovative human heterologous synapse model, where microfluidically isolated human axons recognize and form presynaptic connections with neuroligin-expressing non-neuronal cells, we reveal that neurons deficient for spastin do not achieve the same level of presynaptic component accumulation as control neurons. We propose a model where spastin acts locally as an amplifier of MT polymerization to pattern specific regions of the axon for synaptogenesis and guide synaptic cargo delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayne Aiken
- Department of Physiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Erika L F Holzbaur
- Department of Physiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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4
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Schmidt-Marcec S, Parish A, Smertenko T, Hickey M, Piette BMAG, Smertenko A. The microtubule-nucleating factor MACERATOR tethers AUGMIN7 to microtubules and governs phragmoplast architecture. THE PLANT CELL 2024; 36:1072-1097. [PMID: 38079222 PMCID: PMC11181950 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koad304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The plant cytokinetic microtubule array, called the phragmoplast, exhibits higher microtubule dynamics in its center (midzone) than at the periphery (distal zone). This behavior is known as the axial asymmetry. Despite being a major characteristic of the phragmoplast, little is known about regulators of this phenomenon. Here we address the role of microtubule nucleation in axial asymmetry by characterizing MACERATOR (MACET) proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana and Nicotiana benthamiana with a combination of genetic, biochemical, and live-cell imaging assays, using photo-convertible microtubule probes, and modeling. MACET paralogs accumulate at the shrinking microtubule ends and decrease the tubulin OFF rate. Loss of MACET4 and MACET5 function abrogates axial asymmetry by suppressing microtubule dynamicity in the midzone. MACET4 also narrows the microtubule nucleation angle at the phragmoplast leading edge and functions as a microtubule tethering factor for AUGMIN COMPLEX SUBUNIT 7 (AUG7). The macet4 macet5 double mutant shows diminished clustering of AUG7 in the phragmoplast distal zone. Knockout of AUG7 does not affect MACET4 localization, axial asymmetry, or microtubule nucleation angle, but increases phragmoplast length and slows down phragmoplast expansion. The mce4-1 mce5 aug7-1 triple knockout is not viable. Experimental data and modeling demonstrate that microtubule nucleation factors regulate phragmoplast architecture and axial asymmetry directly by generating new microtubules and indirectly by modulating the abundance of free tubulin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharol Schmidt-Marcec
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164, USA
| | - Alyssa Parish
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164, USA
| | - Tetyana Smertenko
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164, USA
| | - Matthew Hickey
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164, USA
| | | | - Andrei Smertenko
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164, USA
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5
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Razbin M, Benetatos P. Variance and higher moments in the sigmoidal self-assembly of branched fibrils. J Chem Phys 2024; 160:114109. [PMID: 38506286 DOI: 10.1063/5.0190768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Self-assembly of functional branched filaments, such as actin filaments and microtubules, or dysfunctional ones, such as amyloid fibrils, plays important roles in many biological processes. Here, based on the master equation approach, we study the kinetics of the formation of the branched fibrils. In our model, a branched fibril has one mother branch and several daughter branches. A daughter branch grows from the side of a pre-existing mother branch or daughter branch. In our model, we consider five basic processes for the self-assembly of the branched filaments, namely, the nucleation, the dissociation of the primary nucleus of fibrils, the elongation, the fragmentation, and the branching. The elongation of a mother branch from two ends and the elongation of a daughter branch from two ends can, in principle, occur with four different rate constants associated with the corresponding tips. This leads to a pronounced impact of the directionality of growth on the kinetics of the self-assembly. Here, we have unified and generalized our four previously presented models of branched fibrillogenesis in a single model. We have obtained a system of non-linear ordinary differential equations that give the time evolution of the polymer numbers and the mass concentrations along with the higher moments as observable quantities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadhosein Razbin
- Department of Energy Engineering and Physics, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Panayotis Benetatos
- Department of Physics, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehakro, Bukgu, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
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6
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Kennard AS, Velle KB, Ranjan R, Schulz D, Fritz-Laylin LK. An internally controlled system to study microtubule network diversification links tubulin evolution to the use of distinct microtubule regulators. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.08.573270. [PMID: 38260630 PMCID: PMC10802493 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.08.573270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Diverse eukaryotic cells assemble microtubule networks that vary in structure and composition. While we understand how cells build microtubule networks with specialized functions, we do not know how microtubule networks diversify across deep evolutionary timescales. This problem has remained unresolved because most organisms use shared pools of tubulins for multiple networks, making it impossible to trace the evolution of any single network. In contrast, the amoeboflagellate Naegleria uses distinct tubulin genes to build distinct microtubule networks: while Naegleria builds flagella from conserved tubulins during differentiation, it uses divergent tubulins to build its mitotic spindle. This genetic separation makes for an internally controlled system to study independent microtubule networks in a single organismal and genomic context. To explore the evolution of these microtubule networks, we identified conserved microtubule binding proteins and used transcriptional profiling of mitosis and differentiation to determine which are upregulated during the assembly of each network. Surprisingly, most microtubule binding proteins are upregulated during only one process, suggesting that Naegleria uses distinct component pools to specialize its microtubule networks. Furthermore, the divergent residues of mitotic tubulins tend to fall within the binding sites of differentiation-specific microtubule regulators, suggesting that interactions between microtubules and their binding proteins constrain tubulin sequence diversification. We therefore propose a model for cytoskeletal evolution in which pools of microtubule network components constrain and guide the diversification of the entire network, so that the evolution of tubulin is inextricably linked to that of its binding partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S. Kennard
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst MA, United States
| | - Katrina B. Velle
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst MA, United States
| | - Ravi Ranjan
- Genomics Resource Laboratory, Institute of Applied Life Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst MA, United States
| | - Danae Schulz
- Department of Biology, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont CA, United States
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7
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Lawrence EJ, Chatterjee S, Zanic M. More is different: Reconstituting complexity in microtubule regulation. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105398. [PMID: 37898404 PMCID: PMC10694663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105398] [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: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Microtubules are dynamic cytoskeletal filaments that undergo stochastic switching between phases of polymerization and depolymerization-a behavior known as dynamic instability. Many important cellular processes, including cell motility, chromosome segregation, and intracellular transport, require complex spatiotemporal regulation of microtubule dynamics. This coordinated regulation is achieved through the interactions of numerous microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) with microtubule ends and lattices. Here, we review the recent advances in our understanding of microtubule regulation, focusing on results arising from biochemical in vitro reconstitution approaches using purified multiprotein ensembles. We discuss how the combinatory effects of MAPs affect both the dynamics of individual microtubule ends, as well as the stability and turnover of the microtubule lattice. In addition, we highlight new results demonstrating the roles of protein condensates in microtubule regulation. Our overall intent is to showcase how lessons learned from reconstitution approaches help unravel the regulatory mechanisms at play in complex cellular environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Lawrence
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Saptarshi Chatterjee
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Marija Zanic
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
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8
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Romeiro Motta M, Biswas S, Schaedel L. Beyond uniformity: Exploring the heterogeneous and dynamic nature of the microtubule lattice. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151370. [PMID: 37922811 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151370] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A fair amount of research on microtubules since their discovery in 1963 has focused on their dynamic tips. In contrast, the microtubule lattice was long believed to be highly regular and static, and consequently received far less attention. Yet, as it turned out, the microtubule lattice is neither as regular, nor as static as previously believed: structural studies uncovered the remarkable wealth of different conformations the lattice can accommodate. In the last decade, the microtubule lattice was shown to be labile and to spontaneously undergo renovation, a phenomenon that is intimately linked to structural defects and was called "microtubule self-repair". Following this breakthrough discovery, further recent research provided a deeper understanding of the lattice self-repair mechanism, which we review here. Instrumental to these discoveries were in vitro microtubule reconstitution assays, in which microtubules are grown from the minimal components required for their dynamics. In this review, we propose a shift from the term "lattice self-repair" to "lattice dynamics", since this phenomenon is an inherent property of microtubules and can happen without microtubule damage. We focus on how in vitro microtubule reconstitution assays helped us learn (1) which types of structural variations microtubules display, (2) how these structural variations influence lattice dynamics and microtubule damage caused by mechanical stress, (3) how lattice dynamics impact tip dynamics, and (4) how microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) can play a role in structuring the lattice. Finally, we discuss the unanswered questions about lattice dynamics and how technical advances will help us tackle these questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Romeiro Motta
- Department of Physics, Center for Biophysics, Campus A2 4, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; Laboratoire Reproduction et Développement des Plantes, Université de Lyon, École normale supérieure de Lyon, Lyon 69364, France
| | - Subham Biswas
- Department of Physics, Center for Biophysics, Campus A2 4, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Laura Schaedel
- Department of Physics, Center for Biophysics, Campus A2 4, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany.
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9
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van den Berg CM, Volkov VA, Schnorrenberg S, Huang Z, Stecker KE, Grigoriev I, Gilani S, Frikstad KAM, Patzke S, Zimmermann T, Dogterom M, Akhmanova A. CSPP1 stabilizes growing microtubule ends and damaged lattices from the luminal side. J Cell Biol 2023; 222:213861. [PMID: 36752787 PMCID: PMC9948759 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202208062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Microtubules are dynamic cytoskeletal polymers, and their organization and stability are tightly regulated by numerous cellular factors. While regulatory proteins controlling the formation of interphase microtubule arrays and mitotic spindles have been extensively studied, the biochemical mechanisms responsible for generating stable microtubule cores of centrioles and cilia are poorly understood. Here, we used in vitro reconstitution assays to investigate microtubule-stabilizing properties of CSPP1, a centrosome and cilia-associated protein mutated in the neurodevelopmental ciliopathy Joubert syndrome. We found that CSPP1 preferentially binds to polymerizing microtubule ends that grow slowly or undergo growth perturbations and, in this way, resembles microtubule-stabilizing compounds such as taxanes. Fluorescence microscopy and cryo-electron tomography showed that CSPP1 is deposited in the microtubule lumen and inhibits microtubule growth and shortening through two separate domains. CSPP1 also specifically recognizes and stabilizes damaged microtubule lattices. These data help to explain how CSPP1 regulates the elongation and stability of ciliary axonemes and other microtubule-based structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyntha M. van den Berg
- https://ror.org/04pp8hn57Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Vladimir A. Volkov
- https://ror.org/04pp8hn57Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands,https://ror.org/02e2c7k09Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ziqiang Huang
- EMBL Imaging Centre, EMBL-Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kelly E. Stecker
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Netherlands Proteomics Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ilya Grigoriev
- https://ror.org/04pp8hn57Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sania Gilani
- https://ror.org/00j9c2840Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway,Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kari-Anne M. Frikstad
- https://ror.org/00j9c2840Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sebastian Patzke
- https://ror.org/00j9c2840Department of Radiation Biology, Institute of Cancer Research, Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Marileen Dogterom
- https://ror.org/02e2c7k09Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Akhmanova
- https://ror.org/04pp8hn57Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands,Correspondence to Anna Akhmanova:
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10
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Zocchi R, Compagnucci C, Bertini E, Sferra A. Deciphering the Tubulin Language: Molecular Determinants and Readout Mechanisms of the Tubulin Code in Neurons. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032781. [PMID: 36769099 PMCID: PMC9917122 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Microtubules (MTs) are dynamic components of the cell cytoskeleton involved in several cellular functions, such as structural support, migration and intracellular trafficking. Despite their high similarity, MTs have functional heterogeneity that is generated by the incorporation into the MT lattice of different tubulin gene products and by their post-translational modifications (PTMs). Such regulations, besides modulating the tubulin composition of MTs, create on their surface a "biochemical code" that is translated, through the action of protein effectors, into specific MT-based functions. This code, known as "tubulin code", plays an important role in neuronal cells, whose highly specialized morphologies and activities depend on the correct functioning of the MT cytoskeleton and on its interplay with a myriad of MT-interacting proteins. In recent years, a growing number of mutations in genes encoding for tubulins, MT-interacting proteins and enzymes that post-translationally modify MTs, which are the main players of the tubulin code, have been linked to neurodegenerative processes or abnormalities in neural migration, differentiation and connectivity. Nevertheless, the exact molecular mechanisms through which the cell writes and, downstream, MT-interacting proteins decipher the tubulin code are still largely uncharted. The purpose of this review is to describe the molecular determinants and the readout mechanisms of the tubulin code, and briefly elucidate how they coordinate MT behavior during critical neuronal events, such as neuron migration, maturation and axonal transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Zocchi
- Unit of Neuromuscular Disorders, Translational Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Compagnucci
- Molecular Genetics and Functional Genomics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Research Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Bertini
- Unit of Neuromuscular Disorders, Translational Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.B.); or (A.S.); Tel.: +39-06-6859-2104 (E.B. & A.S.)
| | - Antonella Sferra
- Unit of Neuromuscular Disorders, Translational Pediatrics and Clinical Genetics, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00146 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.B.); or (A.S.); Tel.: +39-06-6859-2104 (E.B. & A.S.)
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11
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Inaba H, Sueki Y, Ichikawa M, Kabir AMR, Iwasaki T, Shigematsu H, Kakugo A, Sada K, Tsukazaki T, Matsuura K. Generation of stable microtubule superstructures by binding of peptide-fused tetrameric proteins to inside and outside. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabq3817. [PMID: 36070375 PMCID: PMC9451167 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abq3817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Microtubules play important roles in biological functions by forming superstructures, such as doublets and branched structures, in vivo. Despite the importance, it is challenging to construct these superstructures in vitro. Here, we designed a tetrameric fluorescent protein Azami-Green (AG) fused with His-tag and Tau-derived peptide (TP), TP-AG, to generate the superstructures. Main binding sites of TP-AG can be controlled to the inside and outside of microtubules by changing the polymerization conditions. The binding of TP-AG to the inside promoted microtubule formation and generated rigid and stable microtubules. The binding of TP-AG to the outside induced various microtubule superstructures, including doublets, multiplets, branched structures, and extremely long microtubules by recruiting tubulins to microtubules. Motile microtubule aster structures were also constructed by TP-AG. The generation of various microtubule superstructures by a single type of exogenous protein is a new concept for understanding the functions of microtubules and constructing microtubule-based nanomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Inaba
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8552, Japan
- Centre for Research on Green Sustainable Chemistry, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8552, Japan
| | - Yurina Sueki
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8552, Japan
| | - Muneyoshi Ichikawa
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Kawaguchi, Japan
| | | | - Takashi Iwasaki
- Department of Bioresources Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8553, 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
| | - Kazuki Sada
- Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
- Graduate School of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0810, Japan
| | - Tomoya Tsukazaki
- Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Kazunori Matsuura
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8552, Japan
- Centre for Research on Green Sustainable Chemistry, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8552, Japan
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12
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Costa AC, Sousa MM. The Role of Spastin in Axon Biology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:934522. [PMID: 35865632 PMCID: PMC9294387 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.934522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons are highly polarized cells with elaborate shapes that allow them to perform their function. In neurons, microtubule organization—length, density, and dynamics—are essential for the establishment of polarity, growth, and transport. A mounting body of evidence shows that modulation of the microtubule cytoskeleton by microtubule-associated proteins fine tunes key aspects of neuronal cell biology. In this respect, microtubule severing enzymes—spastin, katanin and fidgetin—a group of microtubule-associated proteins that bind to and generate internal breaks in the microtubule lattice, are emerging as key modulators of the microtubule cytoskeleton in different model systems. In this review, we provide an integrative view on the latest research demonstrating the key role of spastin in neurons, specifically in the context of axonal cell biology. We focus on the function of spastin in the regulation of microtubule organization, and axonal transport, that underlie its importance in the intricate control of axon growth, branching and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Catarina Costa
- Nerve Regeneration Group, Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Instituto de Investigação e Inovação Em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Ana Catarina Costa, ; Monica Mendes Sousa,
| | - Monica Mendes Sousa
- Nerve Regeneration Group, Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Instituto de Investigação e Inovação Em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Ana Catarina Costa, ; Monica Mendes Sousa,
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13
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Liu GY, Chen SC, Lee GH, Shaiv K, Chen PY, Cheng H, Hong SR, Yang WT, Huang SH, Chang YC, Wang HC, Kao CL, Sun PC, Chao MH, Lee YY, Tang MJ, Lin YC. Precise control of microtubule disassembly in living cells. EMBO J 2022; 41:e110472. [PMID: 35686621 PMCID: PMC9340485 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2021110472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Microtubules tightly regulate various cellular activities. Our understanding of microtubules is largely based on experiments using microtubule‐targeting agents, which, however, are insufficient to dissect the dynamic mechanisms of specific microtubule populations, due to their slow effects on the entire pool of microtubules. To overcome this technological limitation, we have used chemo and optogenetics to disassemble specific microtubule subtypes, including tyrosinated microtubules, primary cilia, mitotic spindles, and intercellular bridges, by rapidly recruiting engineered microtubule‐cleaving enzymes onto target microtubules in a reversible manner. Using this approach, we show that acute microtubule disassembly swiftly halts vesicular trafficking and lysosomal dynamics. It also immediately triggers Golgi and ER reorganization and slows the fusion/fission of mitochondria without affecting mitochondrial membrane potential. In addition, cell rigidity is increased after microtubule disruption owing to increased contractile stress fibers. Microtubule disruption furthermore prevents cell division, but does not cause cell death during interphase. Overall, the reported tools facilitate detailed analysis of how microtubules precisely regulate cellular architecture and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Y Liu
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Shiau-Chi Chen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Gang-Hui Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Kritika Shaiv
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Yu Chen
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Hsuan Cheng
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Shi-Rong Hong
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ting Yang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Han Huang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chu Chang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Chu Wang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Lin Kao
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Chiao Sun
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hong Chao
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yian-Ying Lee
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Jer Tang
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chun Lin
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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14
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Hoff KJ, Aiken JE, Gutierrez MA, Franco SJ, Moore JK. Tubulinopathy mutations in TUBA1A that disrupt neuronal morphogenesis and migration override XMAP215/Stu2 regulation of microtubule dynamics. eLife 2022; 11:76189. [PMID: 35511030 PMCID: PMC9236607 DOI: 10.7554/elife.76189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterozygous, missense mutations in α- or β-tubulin genes are associated with a wide range of human brain malformations, known as tubulinopathies. We seek to understand whether a mutation’s impact at the molecular and cellular levels scale with the severity of brain malformation. Here, we focus on two mutations at the valine 409 residue of TUBA1A, V409I, and V409A, identified in patients with pachygyria or lissencephaly, respectively. We find that ectopic expression of TUBA1A-V409I/A mutants disrupt neuronal migration in mice and promote excessive neurite branching and a decrease in the number of neurite retraction events in primary rat neuronal cultures. These neuronal phenotypes are accompanied by increased microtubule acetylation and polymerization rates. To determine the molecular mechanisms, we modeled the V409I/A mutants in budding yeast and found that they promote intrinsically faster microtubule polymerization rates in cells and in reconstitution experiments with purified tubulin. In addition, V409I/A mutants decrease the recruitment of XMAP215/Stu2 to plus ends in budding yeast and ablate tubulin binding to TOG (tumor overexpressed gene) domains. In each assay tested, the TUBA1A-V409I mutant exhibits an intermediate phenotype between wild type and the more severe TUBA1A-V409A, reflecting the severity observed in brain malformations. Together, our data support a model in which the V409I/A mutations disrupt microtubule regulation typically conferred by XMAP215 proteins during neuronal morphogenesis and migration, and this impact on tubulin activity at the molecular level scales with the impact at the cellular and tissue levels. Proteins are molecules made up of long chains of building blocks called amino acids. When a mutation changes one of these amino acids, it can lead to the protein malfunctioning, which can have many effects at the cell and tissue level. Given that human proteins are made up of 20 different amino acids, each building block in a protein could mutate to any of the other 19 amino acids, and each mutations could have different effects. Tubulins are proteins that form microtubules, thin tubes that help give cells their shape and allow them to migrate. These proteins are added or removed to microtubules depending on the cell’s needs, meaning that microtubules can grow or shrink depending on the situation. Mutations in the tubulin proteins have been linked to malformations of varying severities involving the formation of ridges and folds on the surface of the brain, including lissencephaly, pachygyria or polymicrogyria. Hoff et al. wanted to establish links between tubulin mutations and the effects observed at both cell and tissue level in the brain. They focused on two mutations in the tubulin protein TUBA1A that affect the amino acid in position 409 in the protein, which is normally a valine. One of the mutations turns this valine into an amino acid called isoleucine. This mutation is associated with pachygyria, which leads to the brain developing few ridges that are broad and flat. The second mutation turns the valine into an alanine, and is linked to lissencephaly, a more severe condition in which the brain develops no ridges, appearing smooth. Hoff et al. found that both mutations interfere with the development of the brain by stopping neurons from migrating properly, which prevents them from forming the folds in the brain correctly. At the cellular level, the mutations lead to tubulins becoming harder to remove from microtubules, making microtubules more stable than usual. This results in longer microtubules that are harder for the cell to shorten or destroy as needed. Additionally, Hoff et al. showed that the mutant versions of TUBA1A have weaker interactions with a protein called XMAP215, which controls the addition of tubulin to microtubules. This causes the microtubules to grow uncontrollably. Hoff et al. also established that the magnitude of the effects of each mutation on microtubule growth scale with the severity of the disorder they cause. Specifically, cells in which TUBA1A is not mutated have microtubules that grow at a normal rate, and lead to typical brain development. Meanwhile, cells carrying the mutation that turns a valine into an alanine, which is linked to the more severe condition lissencephaly, have microtubules that grow very fast. Finally, cells in which the valine is mutated to an isoleucine – the mutation associated with the less severe malformation pachygyria – have microtubules that grow at an intermediate rate. These findings provide a link between mutations in tubulin proteins and larger effects on cell movement that lead to brain malformations. Additionally, they also link the severity of the malformation to the severity of the microtubule defect caused by each mutation. Further work could examine whether microtubule stabilization is also seen in other similar diseases, which, in the long term, could reveal ways to detect and treat these illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn J Hoff
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, United States
| | - Jayne E Aiken
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, United States
| | - Mark A Gutierrez
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, United States
| | - Santos J Franco
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, United States
| | - Jeffrey K Moore
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, United States
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15
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Nedozralova H, Basnet N, Ibiricu I, Bodakuntla S, Biertümpfel C, Mizuno N. In situ cryo-electron tomography reveals local cellular machineries for axon branch development. J Biophys Biochem Cytol 2022; 221:213057. [PMID: 35262630 PMCID: PMC8916118 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202106086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons are highly polarized cells forming an intricate network of dendrites and axons. They are shaped by the dynamic reorganization of cytoskeleton components and cellular organelles. Axon branching allows the formation of new paths and increases circuit complexity. However, our understanding of branch formation is sparse due to the lack of direct in-depth observations. Using in situ cellular cryo-electron tomography on primary mouse neurons, we directly visualized the remodeling of organelles and cytoskeleton structures at axon branches. Strikingly, branched areas functioned as hotspots concentrating organelles to support dynamic activities. Unaligned actin filaments assembled at the base of premature branches accompanied by filopodia-like protrusions. Microtubules and ER comigrated into preformed branches to support outgrowth together with accumulating compact, ∼500-nm mitochondria and locally clustered ribosomes. We obtained a roadmap of events supporting the hypothesis of local protein synthesis selectively taking place at axon branches, allowing them to serve as unique control hubs for axon development and downstream neural network formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Nedozralova
- Department of Structural Cell Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany.,Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Nirakar Basnet
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Iosune Ibiricu
- Department of Structural Cell Biology, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Satish Bodakuntla
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Christian Biertümpfel
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Naoko Mizuno
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.,National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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16
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Foster HE, Ventura Santos C, Carter AP. A cryo-ET survey of microtubules and intracellular compartments in mammalian axons. J Cell Biol 2022; 221:e202103154. [PMID: 34878519 PMCID: PMC7612188 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202103154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuronal axon is packed with cytoskeletal filaments, membranes, and organelles, many of which move between the cell body and axon tip. Here, we used cryo-electron tomography to survey the internal components of mammalian sensory axons. We determined the polarity of the axonal microtubules (MTs) by combining subtomogram classification and visual inspection, finding MT plus and minus ends are structurally similar. Subtomogram averaging of globular densities in the MT lumen suggests they have a defined structure, which is surprising given they likely contain the disordered protein MAP6. We found the endoplasmic reticulum in axons is tethered to MTs through multiple short linkers. We surveyed membrane-bound cargos and describe unexpected internal features such as granules and broken membranes. In addition, we detected proteinaceous compartments, including numerous virus-like capsid particles. Our observations outline novel features of axonal cargos and MTs, providing a platform for identification of their constituents.
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17
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Lawrence EJ, Arpag G, Arnaiz C, Zanic M. SSNA1 stabilizes dynamic microtubules and detects microtubule damage. eLife 2021; 10:67282. [PMID: 34970964 PMCID: PMC8798045 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sjögren’s syndrome nuclear autoantigen-1 (SSNA1/NA14) is a microtubule-associated protein with important functions in cilia, dividing cells, and developing neurons. However, the direct effects of SSNA1 on microtubules are not known. We employed in vitro reconstitution with purified proteins and TIRF microscopy to investigate the activity of human SSNA1 on dynamic microtubule ends and lattices. Our results show that SSNA1 modulates all parameters of microtubule dynamic instability—slowing down the rates of growth, shrinkage, and catastrophe, and promoting rescue. We find that SSNA1 forms stretches along growing microtubule ends and binds cooperatively to the microtubule lattice. Furthermore, SSNA1 is enriched on microtubule damage sites, occurring both naturally, as well as induced by the microtubule severing enzyme spastin. Finally, SSNA1 binding protects microtubules against spastin’s severing activity. Taken together, our results demonstrate that SSNA1 is both a potent microtubule-stabilizing protein and a novel sensor of microtubule damage; activities that likely underlie SSNA1’s functions on microtubule structures in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Lawrence
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States
| | - Goker Arpag
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology and Program in Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States
| | - Cayetana Arnaiz
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States
| | - Marija Zanic
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology and Program in Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, United States
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18
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Loh JS, Tan LKS, Lee WL, Ming LC, How CW, Foo JB, Kifli N, Goh BH, Ong YS. Do Lipid-based Nanoparticles Hold Promise for Advancing the Clinical Translation of Anticancer Alkaloids? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5346. [PMID: 34771511 PMCID: PMC8582402 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the commercialization of morphine in 1826, numerous alkaloids have been isolated and exploited effectively for the betterment of mankind, including cancer treatment. However, the commercialization of alkaloids as anticancer agents has generally been limited by serious side effects due to their lack of specificity to cancer cells, indiscriminate tissue distribution and toxic formulation excipients. Lipid-based nanoparticles represent the most effective drug delivery system concerning clinical translation owing to their unique, appealing characteristics for drug delivery. To the extent of our knowledge, this is the first review to compile in vitro and in vivo evidence of encapsulating anticancer alkaloids in lipid-based nanoparticles. Alkaloids encapsulated in lipid-based nanoparticles have generally displayed enhanced in vitro cytotoxicity and an improved in vivo efficacy and toxicity profile than free alkaloids in various cancers. Encapsulated alkaloids also demonstrated the ability to overcome multidrug resistance in vitro and in vivo. These findings support the broad application of lipid-based nanoparticles to encapsulate anticancer alkaloids and facilitate their clinical translation. The review then discusses several limitations of the studies analyzed, particularly the discrepancies in reporting the pharmacokinetics, biodistribution and toxicity data. Finally, we conclude with examples of clinically successful encapsulated alkaloids that have received regulatory approval and are undergoing clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Sheng Loh
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.S.L.); (C.W.H.)
| | - Li Kar Stella Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Jalan Taylors 1, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (L.K.S.T.); (J.B.F.)
| | - Wai Leng Lee
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia;
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong BE1410, Brunei; (L.C.M.); (N.K.)
| | - Chee Wun How
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.S.L.); (C.W.H.)
- Health and Well-Being Cluster, Global Asia in the 21st Century (GA21) Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Jhi Biau Foo
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Jalan Taylors 1, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (L.K.S.T.); (J.B.F.)
- Centre for Drug Discovery and Molecular Pharmacology (CDDMP), Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Jalan Taylors 1, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Nurolaini Kifli
- PAP Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong BE1410, Brunei; (L.C.M.); (N.K.)
| | - Bey Hing Goh
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.S.L.); (C.W.H.)
- Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group (BMEX), School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yong Sze Ong
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia; (J.S.L.); (C.W.H.)
- Health and Well-Being Cluster, Global Asia in the 21st Century (GA21) Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
- Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory Research Group (BMEX), School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
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19
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Bodakuntla S, Nedozralova H, Basnet N, Mizuno N. Cytoskeleton and Membrane Organization at Axon Branches. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:707486. [PMID: 34540830 PMCID: PMC8440873 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.707486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Axon branching is a critical process ensuring a high degree of interconnectivity for neural network formation. As branching occurs at sites distant from the soma, it is necessary that axons have a local system to dynamically control and regulate axonal growth. This machinery depends on the orchestration of cellular functions such as cytoskeleton, subcellular transport, energy production, protein- and membrane synthesis that are adapted for branch formation. Compared to the axon shaft, branching sites show a distinct and dynamic arrangement of cytoskeleton components, endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. This review discusses the regulation of axon branching in the context of cytoskeleton and membrane remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satish Bodakuntla
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hana Nedozralova
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Nirakar Basnet
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Naoko Mizuno
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.,National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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20
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Mani N, Wijeratne SS, Subramanian R. Micron-scale geometrical features of microtubules as regulators of microtubule organization. eLife 2021; 10:e63880. [PMID: 34114950 PMCID: PMC8195601 DOI: 10.7554/elife.63880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The organization of micron-sized, multi-microtubule arrays from individual microtubules is essential for diverse cellular functions. The microtubule polymer is largely viewed as a passive building block during the organization process. An exception is the 'tubulin code' where alterations to tubulin at the amino acid level can influence the activity of microtubule-associated proteins. Recent studies reveal that micron-scale geometrical features of individual microtubules and polymer networks, such as microtubule length, overlap length, contact angle, and lattice defects, can also regulate the activity of microtubule-associated proteins and modulate polymer dynamics. We discuss how the interplay between such geometrical properties of the microtubule lattice and the activity of associated proteins direct multiple aspects of array organization, from microtubule nucleation and coalignment to specification of array dimensions and remodeling of dynamic networks. The mechanisms reviewed here highlight micron-sized features of microtubules as critical parameters to be routinely investigated in the study of microtubule self-organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandini Mani
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General HospitalBostonUnited States
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Sithara S Wijeratne
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General HospitalBostonUnited States
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Radhika Subramanian
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General HospitalBostonUnited States
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
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21
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Chumová J, Kourová H, Trögelová L, Daniel G, Binarová P. γ-Tubulin Complexes and Fibrillar Arrays: Two Conserved High Molecular Forms with Many Cellular Functions. Cells 2021; 10:cells10040776. [PMID: 33915825 PMCID: PMC8066788 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Higher plants represent a large group of eukaryotes where centrosomes are absent. The functions of γ-tubulin small complexes (γ-TuSCs) and γ-tubulin ring complexes (γ-TuRCs) in metazoans and fungi in microtubule nucleation are well established and the majority of components found in the complexes are present in plants. However, plant microtubules are also nucleated in a γ-tubulin-dependent but γ-TuRC-independent manner. There is growing evidence that γ-tubulin is a microtubule nucleator without being complexed in γ-TuRC. Fibrillar arrays of γ-tubulin were demonstrated in plant and animal cells and the ability of γ-tubulin to assemble into linear oligomers/polymers was confirmed in vitro for both native and recombinant γ-tubulin. The functions of γ-tubulin as a template for microtubule nucleation or in promoting spontaneous nucleation is outlined. Higher plants represent an excellent model for studies on the role of γ-tubulin in nucleation due to their acentrosomal nature and high abundancy and conservation of γ-tubulin including its intrinsic ability to assemble filaments. The defining scaffolding or sequestration functions of plant γ-tubulin in microtubule organization or in nuclear processes will help our understanding of its cellular roles in eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Chumová
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.C.); (H.K.); (L.T.)
| | - Hana Kourová
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.C.); (H.K.); (L.T.)
| | - Lucie Trögelová
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.C.); (H.K.); (L.T.)
| | - Geoffrey Daniel
- Department of Biomaterials and Technology/Wood Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 750-07 Uppsala, Sweden;
| | - Pavla Binarová
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská1083, 142 20 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.C.); (H.K.); (L.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-241-062-130
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22
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Razbin M, Benetatos P, Mirabbaszadeh K. Directionality of growth and kinetics of branched fibril formation. J Chem Phys 2020; 153:244101. [PMID: 33380088 DOI: 10.1063/5.0029142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The self-assembly of fibrils is a subject of intense interest, primarily due to its relevance to the formation of pathological structures. Some fibrils develop branches via the so-called secondary nucleation. In this paper, we use the master equation approach to model the kinetics of formation of branched fibrils. In our model, a branched fibril consists of one mother branch and several daughter branches. We consider five basic processes of fibril formation, namely, nucleation, elongation, branching, fragmentation, and dissociation of the primary nucleus of fibrils into free monomers. Our main focus is on the effect of the directionality of growth on the kinetics of fibril formation. We consider several cases. At first, the mother branch may elongate from one or from both ends, while the daughter branch elongates only from one end. We also study the case of branched fibrils with bidirectionally growing daughter branches, tangentially to the main stem, which resembles the intertwining process. We derive a set of ordinary differential equations for the moments of the number concentration of fibrils, which can be solved numerically. Assuming that the primary nucleus of fibrils dissociates with the fragmentation rate, in the limit of the zero branching rate, our model reproduces the results of a previous model that considers only the three basic processes of nucleation, elongation, and fragmentation. We also use the experimental parameters for the fibril formation of Huntingtin fragments to investigate the effect of unidirectional vs bidirectional elongation of the filaments on the kinetics of fibrillogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadhosein Razbin
- Department of Energy Engineering and Physics, Amirkabir University of Technology, 14588 Tehran, Iran
| | - Panayotis Benetatos
- Department of Physics, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehakro, Bukgu, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Kavoos Mirabbaszadeh
- Department of Energy Engineering and Physics, Amirkabir University of Technology, 14588 Tehran, Iran
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23
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Schaffter SW, Scalise D, Murphy TM, Patel A, Schulman R. Feedback regulation of crystal growth by buffering monomer concentration. Nat Commun 2020; 11:6057. [PMID: 33247122 PMCID: PMC7695852 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19882-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Crystallization is a ubiquitous means of self-assembly that can organize matter over length scales orders of magnitude larger than those of the monomer units. Yet crystallization is notoriously difficult to control because it is exquisitely sensitive to monomer concentration, which changes as monomers are depleted during growth. Living cells control crystallization using chemical reaction networks that offset depletion by synthesizing or activating monomers to regulate monomer concentration, stabilizing growth conditions even as depletion rates change, and thus reliably yielding desired products. Using DNA nanotubes as a model system, here we show that coupling a generic reversible bimolecular monomer buffering reaction to a crystallization process leads to reliable growth of large, uniformly sized crystals even when crystal growth rates change over time. Buffering could be applied broadly as a simple means to regulate and sustain batch crystallization and could facilitate the self-assembly of complex, hierarchical synthetic structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel W Schaffter
- Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Dominic Scalise
- Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | | | - Anusha Patel
- Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Rebecca Schulman
- Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.
- Department of Computer Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.
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24
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Wilkes OR, Moore AW. Distinct Microtubule Organizing Center Mechanisms Combine to Generate Neuron Polarity and Arbor Complexity. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:594199. [PMID: 33328893 PMCID: PMC7711044 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.594199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendrite and axon arbor wiring patterns determine the connectivity and computational characteristics of a neuron. The identities of these dendrite and axon arbors are created by differential polarization of their microtubule arrays, and their complexity and pattern are generated by the extension and organization of these arrays. We describe how several molecularly distinct microtubule organizing center (MTOC) mechanisms function during neuron differentiation to generate and arrange dendrite and axon microtubules. The temporal and spatial organization of these MTOCs generates, patterns, and diversifies arbor wiring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver R Wilkes
- Laboratory for Neurodiversity, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako-shi, Japan.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute for Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian W Moore
- Laboratory for Neurodiversity, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako-shi, Japan
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25
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Théry M, Blanchoin L. Microtubule self-repair. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2020; 68:144-154. [PMID: 33217636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2020.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The stochastic switching between microtubule growth and shrinkage is a fascinating and unique process in the regulation of the cytoskeleton. To understand it, almost all attention has been focused on the microtubule ends. However, recent research has revived the idea that tubulin dimers can also be exchanged in protofilaments along the microtubule shaft, thus repairing the microtubule and protecting it from disassembly. Here, we review the research describing this phenomenon, the mechanisms regulating the removal and insertion of tubulin dimers, as well as the potential implications for key functions of the microtubule network, such as intracellular transport and cell polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Théry
- University of Grenoble-Alpes, CEA, CNRS, INRA, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, Laboratoire de Physiologie Cellulaire & Végétale, CytoMorpho Lab, Grenoble, 38054, France; University of Paris, INSERM, CEA, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, U976, HIPI, CytoMorpho Lab, Paris, 75010, France.
| | - Laurent Blanchoin
- University of Grenoble-Alpes, CEA, CNRS, INRA, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, Laboratoire de Physiologie Cellulaire & Végétale, CytoMorpho Lab, Grenoble, 38054, France; University of Paris, INSERM, CEA, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, U976, HIPI, CytoMorpho Lab, Paris, 75010, France.
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26
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Schaffter SW, Schneider J, Agrawal DK, Pacella MS, Rothchild E, Murphy T, Schulman R. Reconfiguring DNA Nanotube Architectures via Selective Regulation of Terminating Structures. ACS NANO 2020; 14:13451-13462. [PMID: 33048538 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c05340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Molecular assemblies inside cells often undergo structural reconfiguration in response to stimuli to alter their function. Adaptive reconfiguration of cytoskeletal networks, for example, enables cellular shape change, movement, and cargo transport and plays a key role in driving complex processes such as division and differentiation. The cellular cytoskeleton is a self-assembling polymer network composed of simple filaments, so reconfiguration often occurs through the rearrangement of its component filaments' connectivities. DNA nanotubes have emerged as promising building blocks for constructing programmable synthetic analogs of cytoskeletal networks. Nucleating seeds can control when and where nanotubes grow, and capping structures can bind nanotube ends to stop growth. Such seeding and capping structures, collectively called termini, can organize nanotubes into larger architectures. However, these structures cannot be selectively activated or inactivated in response to specific stimuli to rearrange nanotube architectures, a key property of cytoskeletal networks. Here, we demonstrate how selective regulation of the binding affinity of DNA nanotube termini for DNA nanotube monomers or nanotube ends can direct the reconfiguration of nanotube architectures. Using DNA hybridization and strand displacement reactions that specifically activate or inactivate four orthogonal nanotube termini, we demonstrate that nanotube architectures can be reconfigured by selective addition or removal of distinct termini. Finally, we show how terminus activation could be a sensitive detector and amplifier of a DNA sequence signal. These results could enable the development of adaptive and multifunctional materials or diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel W Schaffter
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Joanna Schneider
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Deepak K Agrawal
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Michael S Pacella
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Eric Rothchild
- Material Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - Terence Murphy
- Our Lady of Lourdes High School, Poughkeepsie, New York 12603, United States
| | - Rebecca Schulman
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Computer Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
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27
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Abstract
The intracellular transport system in neurons is specialized to an extraordinary degree, enabling the delivery of critical cargo to sites in axons or dendrites that are far removed from the cell center. Vesicles formed in the cell body are actively transported by kinesin motors along axonal microtubules to presynaptic sites that can be located more than a meter away. Both growth factors and degradative vesicles carrying aged organelles or aggregated proteins take the opposite route, driven by dynein motors. Distance is not the only challenge; precise delivery of cargos to sites of need must also be accomplished. For example, localized delivery of presynaptic components to hundreds of thousands of "en passant" synapses distributed along the length of a single axon in some neuronal subtypes provides a layer of complexity that must be successfully navigated to maintain synaptic transmission. We review recent advances in the field of axonal transport, with a focus on conceptual developments, and highlight our growing quantitative understanding of neuronal trafficking and its role in maintaining the synaptic function that underlies higher cognitive processes such as learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Guedes-Dias
- Department of Physiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technische Universität München, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Erika L F Holzbaur
- Department of Physiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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28
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Varikoti RA, Macke AC, Speck V, Ross JL, Dima RI. Molecular investigations into the unfoldase action of severing enzymes on microtubules. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2020; 77:214-228. [DOI: 10.1002/cm.21606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda C. Macke
- Department of Chemistry University of Cincinnati Cincinnati Ohio USA
| | - Virginia Speck
- Department of Chemistry University of Cincinnati Cincinnati Ohio USA
| | | | - Ruxandra I. Dima
- Department of Chemistry University of Cincinnati Cincinnati Ohio USA
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29
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Dynamic microtubules at the synapse. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2020; 63:9-14. [PMID: 32062144 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2020.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Microtubules (MTs) are a fundamental cytoskeletal component that give neurons structure and are the primary polymer system for long distance transport of cargo throughout the cytoplasm. Although neurons are highly polarized and their structure is often maintained throughout the life of an organism, MTs can remain dynamic in axons and dendrites, undergoing bouts of polymerization and depolymerization, referred to as dynamic instability. Furthermore, MTs can be nucleated outside of the centrosome or MT organizing center (MTOC) that is located in the cell body, allowing dynamic formation and branching of MT polymers throughout the neuron. Together, these recent findings point to a much more dynamic landscape of microtubules in developing and mature neurons than was previously appreciated. Here we will focus on recent studies that show MT dynamics are playing a role at the synapse, both post-synaptically in dendrites and pre-synaptically in axons.
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30
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Qu X, Kumar A, Blockus H, Waites C, Bartolini F. Activity-Dependent Nucleation of Dynamic Microtubules at Presynaptic Boutons Controls Neurotransmission. Curr Biol 2019; 29:4231-4240.e5. [PMID: 31813605 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2019.10.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Control of microtubule (MT) nucleation and dynamics is critical for neuronal function. Whether MT nucleation is regulated at presynaptic boutons and influences overall presynaptic activity remains unknown. By visualizing MT plus-end dynamics at individual excitatory en passant boutons in axons of cultured hippocampal neurons and in hippocampal slices expressing EB3-EGFP and vGlut1-mCherry, we found that dynamic MTs preferentially grow from presynaptic boutons, show biased directionality in that they are almost always oriented toward the distal tip of the axon, and can be induced by neuronal activity. Silencing of γ-tubulin expression reduced presynaptic MT nucleation, and depletion of either HAUS1 or HAUS7-augmin subunits increased the percentage of retrograde comets initiated at boutons, indicating that γ-tubulin and augmin are required for activity-dependent de novo nucleation of uniformly distally oriented dynamic MTs. We analyzed the dynamics of a wide range of axonal organelles as well as synaptic vesicles (SVs) relative to vGlut1+ stable presynaptic boutons in a time window during which MT nucleation at boutons is promoted upon induction of neuronal activity, and we found that γ-tubulin-dependent presynaptic MT nucleation controls bidirectional (SV) interbouton transport and regulates evoked SV exocytosis. Hence, en passant boutons act as hotspots for activity-dependent de novo MT nucleation, which controls neurotransmission by providing dynamic tracks for bidirectional delivery of SVs between sites of neurotransmitter release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Qu
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168(th) Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Atul Kumar
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168(th) Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Heike Blockus
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, 3227 Broadway, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Clarissa Waites
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168(th) Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Francesca Bartolini
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168(th) Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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31
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Bodakuntla S, Jijumon AS, Villablanca C, Gonzalez-Billault C, Janke C. Microtubule-Associated Proteins: Structuring the Cytoskeleton. Trends Cell Biol 2019; 29:804-819. [PMID: 31416684 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) were initially discovered as proteins that bind to and stabilize microtubules. Today, an ever-growing number of MAPs reveals a more complex picture of these proteins as organizers of the microtubule cytoskeleton that have a large variety of functions. MAPs enable microtubules to participate in a plethora of cellular processes such as the assembly of mitotic and meiotic spindles, neuronal development, and the formation of the ciliary axoneme. Although some subgroups of MAPs have been exhaustively characterized, a strikingly large number of MAPs remain barely characterized other than their interactions with microtubules. We provide a comprehensive view on the currently known MAPs in mammals. We discuss their molecular mechanisms and functions, as well as their physiological role and links to pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satish Bodakuntla
- Institut Curie, Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) Research University, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 3348, F-91405 Orsay, France; Université Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR 3348, F-91405 Orsay, France
| | - A S Jijumon
- Institut Curie, Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) Research University, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 3348, F-91405 Orsay, France; Université Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR 3348, F-91405 Orsay, France
| | - Cristopher Villablanca
- Center for Geroscience, Brain Health, and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile; Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Christian Gonzalez-Billault
- Center for Geroscience, Brain Health, and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile; Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Carsten Janke
- Institut Curie, Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL) Research University, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 3348, F-91405 Orsay, France; Université Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS UMR 3348, F-91405 Orsay, France.
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32
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Verma V, Maresca TJ. Direct observation of branching MT nucleation in living animal cells. J Cell Biol 2019; 218:2829-2840. [PMID: 31340987 PMCID: PMC6719462 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201904114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Branching microtubule nucleation by its molecular mediators has never been directly observed in animal cells. By imaging augmin, γ-TuRC, and microtubules with high spatiotemporal resolution, Verma and Maresca quantitatively define the sequential steps of augmin-mediated branching microtubule nucleation in dividing Drosophila cells. Centrosome-mediated microtubule (MT) nucleation has been well characterized; however, numerous noncentrosomal MT nucleation mechanisms exist. The branching MT nucleation pathway envisages that the γ-tubulin ring complex (γ-TuRC) is recruited to MTs by the augmin complex to initiate nucleation of new MTs. While the pathway is well conserved at a molecular and functional level, branching MT nucleation by core constituents has never been directly observed in animal cells. Here, multicolor TIRF microscopy was applied to visualize and quantitatively define the entire process of branching MT nucleation in dividing Drosophila cells during anaphase. The steps of a stereotypical branching nucleation event entailed augmin binding to a mother MT and recruitment of γ-TuRC after 15 s, followed by nucleation 16 s later of a daughter MT at a 36° branch angle. Daughters typically remained attached throughout their ∼40-s lifetime unless the mother depolymerized past the branch point. Assembly of branched MT arrays, which did not require Drosophila TPX2, enhanced localized RhoA activation during cytokinesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikash Verma
- Biology Department, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA
| | - Thomas J Maresca
- Biology Department, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA .,Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA
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33
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Kelliher MT, Saunders HA, Wildonger J. Microtubule control of functional architecture in neurons. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2019; 57:39-45. [PMID: 30738328 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Neurons are exquisitely polarized cells whose structure and function relies on microtubules. Microtubules in signal-receiving dendrites and signal-sending axons differ in their organization and microtubule-associated proteins. These differences, coupled with microtubule post-translational modifications, combine to locally regulate intracellular transport, morphology, and function. Recent discoveries provide new insight into the regulation of non-centrosomal microtubule arrays in neurons, the relationship between microtubule acetylation and mechanosensation, and the spatial patterning of microtubules that regulates motor activity and cargo delivery in axons and dendrites. Together, these new studies bring us closer to understanding how microtubule function is locally tuned to match the specialized tasks associated with signal reception and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Kelliher
- Integrated Program in Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Harriet Aj Saunders
- Integrated Program in Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jill Wildonger
- Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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34
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Functions of Microtubule Disassembly during Neurite Pruning. Trends Cell Biol 2019; 29:291-297. [PMID: 30683460 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Large-scale neurite pruning, the developmentally regulated degeneration of axons or dendrites, is an important specificity mechanism during neuronal circuit formation. Pruning is usually restricted to single neurite branches and can occur by local degeneration or retraction. How this spatial regulation is achieved, and what triggers degeneration locally, are still poorly understood. At the cellular level, pruning involves local cytoskeleton disassembly before branch removal. Recent evidence suggests that microtubule disassembly is the local trigger and that the specific local microtubule organization of axons or dendrites determines where and how neurites degenerate. Based on these data, we propose a general model for spatial pruning regulation by microtubules and discuss how microtubule-associated proteins such as Tau could contribute to these regulatory aspects.
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35
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Heymann JB, Vijayasarathy C, Huang RK, Dearborn AD, Sieving PA, Steven AC. Cryo-EM of retinoschisin branched networks suggests an intercellular adhesive scaffold in the retina. J Cell Biol 2019; 218:1027-1038. [PMID: 30630865 PMCID: PMC6400569 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201806148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the essential retinal protein retinoschisin (RS1) cause a form of macular degeneration. Heymann et al. use cryo-EM to show that RS1 assembles into branched networks that may play a stabilizing role in maintaining the integrity of the retina. Mutations in the retinal protein retinoschisin (RS1) cause progressive loss of vision in young males, a form of macular degeneration called X-linked retinoschisis (XLRS). We previously solved the structure of RS1, a 16-mer composed of paired back-to-back octameric rings. Here, we show by cryo–electron microscopy that RS1 16-mers can assemble into extensive branched networks. We classified the different configurations, finding four types of interaction between the RS1 molecules. The predominant configuration is a linear strand with a wavy appearance. Three less frequent types constitute the branch points of the network. In all cases, the “spikes” around the periphery of the double rings are involved in these interactions. In the linear strand, a loop (usually referred to as spike 1) occurs on both sides of the interface between neighboring molecules. Mutations in this loop suppress secretion, indicating the possibility of intracellular higher-order assembly. These observations suggest that branched networks of RS1 may play a stabilizing role in maintaining the integrity of the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Bernard Heymann
- Laboratory for Structural Biology Research, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Camasamudram Vijayasarathy
- Section on Translational Research for Retinal and Macular Degeneration, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Rick K Huang
- Cryo-Electron Microscopy Facility, Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA
| | - Altaira D Dearborn
- Laboratory for Structural Biology Research, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Paul A Sieving
- Section on Translational Research for Retinal and Macular Degeneration, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.,National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Alasdair C Steven
- Laboratory for Structural Biology Research, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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