Kinetochore microtubule dynamics and the metaphase-anaphase transition

Artificial kinetochore beads establish a biorientation-like state in the spindle

Faithful chromosome segregation requires biorientation, where the pair of kinetochores on the chromosome establish bipolar microtubule attachment. The integrity of the kinetochore, a macromolecular complex built on centromeric DNA, is required for biorientation, but components sufficient for biorientation remain unknown. Here, we show that tethering the outer kinetochore heterodimer NDC80-NUF2 to the surface of apolar microbeads establishes their biorientation-like state in mouse cells. NDC80-NUF2 microbeads align at the spindle equator and self-correct alignment errors. The alignment is associated with stable bipolar microtubule attachment and is independent of the outer kinetochore proteins SPC24-SPC25, KNL1, the Mis12 complex, inner kinetochore proteins, and Aurora. Larger microbeads align more rapidly, suggesting a size-dependent biorientation mechanism. This study demonstrates a biohybrid kinetochore design for synthetic biorientation of microscale particles in cells.

Molecular interplay between HURP and Kif18A in mitotic spindle regulation

During mitosis, microtubule dynamics are regulated to ensure proper alignment and segregation of chromosomes. The dynamics of kinetochore-attached microtubules are regulated by hepatoma-upregulated protein (HURP) and the mitotic kinesin-8 Kif18A, but the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Using single-molecule imaging in vitro, we demonstrate that Kif18A motility is regulated by HURP. While sparse decoration of HURP activates the motor, higher concentrations hinder processive motility. To shed light on this behavior, we determined the binding mode of HURP to microtubules using Cryo-EM. The structure reveals that one HURP motif spans laterally across β-tubulin, while a second motif binds between adjacent protofilaments. HURP partially overlaps with the microtubule-binding site of the Kif18A motor domain, indicating that excess HURP inhibits Kif18A motility by steric exclusion. We also observed that HURP and Kif18A function together to suppress dynamics of the microtubule plus-end, providing a mechanistic basis for how they collectively serve in spindle length control.

Molecular interplay between HURP and Kif18A in mitotic spindle regulation

During mitosis, microtubule dynamics are regulated to ensure proper alignment and segregation of chromosomes. The dynamics of kinetochore-attached microtubules are regulated by hepatoma-upregulated protein (HURP) and the mitotic kinesin-8 Kif18A, but the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Using single-molecule imaging in vitro , we demonstrate that Kif18A motility is regulated by HURP. While sparse decoration of HURP activates the motor, higher concentrations hinder processive motility. To shed light on this behavior, we determined the binding mode of HURP to microtubules using Cryo-EM. The structure reveals that one HURP motif spans laterally across β-tubulin, while a second motif binds between adjacent protofilaments. HURP partially overlaps with the microtubule-binding site of the Kif18A motor domain, indicating that excess HURP inhibits Kif18A motility by steric exclusion. We also observed that HURP and Kif18A function together to suppress dynamics of the microtubule plus-end, providing a mechanistic basis for how they collectively serve in spindle length control.

Weakened APC/C activity at mitotic exit drives cancer vulnerability to KIF18A inhibition

The efficacy of current antimitotic cancer drugs is limited by toxicity in highly proliferative healthy tissues. A cancer-specific dependency on the microtubule motor protein KIF18A therefore makes it an attractive therapeutic target. Not all cancers require KIF18A, however, and the determinants underlying this distinction remain unclear. Here, we show that KIF18A inhibition drives a modest and widespread increase in spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) signaling from kinetochores which can result in lethal mitotic delays. Whether cells arrest in mitosis depends on the robustness of the metaphase-to-anaphase transition, and cells predisposed with weak basal anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) activity and/or persistent SAC signaling through metaphase are uniquely sensitive to KIF18A inhibition. KIF18A-dependent cancer cells exhibit hallmarks of this SAC:APC/C imbalance, including a long metaphase-to-anaphase transition, and slow mitosis overall. Together, our data reveal vulnerabilities in the cell division apparatus of cancer cells that can be exploited for therapeutic benefit.

Mechanisms underlying spindle assembly and robustness

The microtubule-based spindle orchestrates chromosome segregation during cell division. Following more than a century of study, many components and pathways contributing to spindle assembly have been described, but how the spindle robustly assembles remains incompletely understood. This process involves the self-organization of a large number of molecular parts - up to hundreds of thousands in vertebrate cells - whose local interactions give rise to a cellular-scale structure with emergent architecture, mechanics and function. In this Review, we discuss key concepts in our understanding of spindle assembly, focusing on recent advances and the new approaches that enabled them. We describe the pathways that generate the microtubule framework of the spindle by driving microtubule nucleation in a spatially controlled fashion and present recent insights regarding the organization of individual microtubules into structural modules. Finally, we discuss the emergent properties of the spindle that enable robust chromosome segregation.

Twenty years of merotelic kinetochore attachments: a historical perspective

Micronuclei, small DNA-containing structures separate from the main nucleus, were used for decades as an indicator of genotoxic damage. Micronuclei containing whole chromosomes were considered a biomarker of aneuploidy and were believed to form, upon mitotic exit, from chromosomes that lagged behind in anaphase as all other chromosomes segregated to the poles of the mitotic spindle. However, the mechanism responsible for inducing anaphase lagging chromosomes remained unknown until just over twenty years ago. Here, I summarize what preceded and what followed this discovery, highlighting some of the open questions and opportunities for future investigation.

Self-organization of kinetochore-fibers in human mitotic spindles

During eukaryotic cell division, chromosomes are linked to microtubules (MTs) in the spindle by a macromolecular complex called the kinetochore. The bound kinetochore microtubules (KMTs) are crucial to ensuring accurate chromosome segregation. Recent reconstructions by electron tomography (Kiewisz et al., 2022) captured the positions and configurations of every MT in human mitotic spindles, revealing that roughly half the KMTs in these spindles do not reach the pole. Here, we investigate the processes that give rise to this distribution of KMTs using a combination of analysis of large-scale electron tomography, photoconversion experiments, quantitative polarized light microscopy, and biophysical modeling. Our results indicate that in metaphase, KMTs grow away from the kinetochores along well-defined trajectories, with the speed of the KMT minus ends continually decreasing as the minus ends approach the pole, implying that longer KMTs grow more slowly than shorter KMTs. The locations of KMT minus ends, and the turnover and movements of tubulin in KMTs, are consistent with models in which KMTs predominately nucleate de novo at kinetochores in metaphase and are inconsistent with substantial numbers of non-KMTs being recruited to the kinetochore in metaphase. Taken together, this work leads to a mathematical model of the self-organization of kinetochore-fibers in human mitotic spindles.

Augmin-dependent microtubule self-organization drives kinetochore fiber maturation in mammals

Chromosome segregation in mammals relies on the maturation of a thick bundle of kinetochore-attached microtubules known as k-fiber. How k-fibers mature from initial kinetochore microtubule attachments remains a fundamental question. By combining molecular perturbations and phenotypic analyses in Indian muntjac fibroblasts containing the lowest known diploid chromosome number in mammals (2N = 6) and distinctively large kinetochores, with fixed/live-cell super-resolution coherent-hybrid stimulated emission depletion (CH-STED) nanoscopy and laser microsurgery, we demonstrate a key role for augmin in kinetochore microtubule self-organization and maturation, regardless of pioneer centrosomal microtubules. In doing so, augmin promotes kinetochore and interpolar microtubule turnover and poleward flux. Tracking of microtubule growth events within individual k-fibers reveals a wide angular dispersion, consistent with augmin-mediated branched microtubule nucleation. Augmin depletion reduces the frequency of kinetochore microtubule growth events and hampers efficient repair after acute k-fiber injury by laser microsurgery. Together, these findings underscore the contribution of augmin-mediated microtubule amplification for k-fiber self-organization and maturation in mammals.

More than two populations of microtubules comprise the dynamic mitotic spindle

The microtubules of the mitotic spindle mediate chromosome alignment to the metaphase plate, then sister chromatid segregation to the spindle poles in anaphase. Previous analyses of spindle microtubule kinetics utilizing fluorescence dissipation after photoactivation described two main populations, a slow and a fast turnover population, and these were ascribed as reflecting kinetochore versus non-kinetochore microtubules, respectively. Here, we test this categorization by disrupting kinetochores through depletion of the Ndc80 complex in U2OS cells. In the absence of functional kinetochores, microtubule dynamics still exhibit slow and fast turnover populations, although the proportion of each population and the timings of turnover are altered. Importantly, the data obtained following Hec1 (also known as Ndc80) depletion suggests that other subpopulations, in addition to kinetochore microtubules, contribute to the slow turnover population. Further manipulation of spindle microtubules revealed a complex landscape. For example, although Aurora B kinase functions to destabilize kinetochore bound microtubules it might also stabilize certain slow turnover non-kinetochore microtubules. Dissection of the dynamics of microtubule populations provides a greater understanding of mitotic spindle kinetics and insight into their roles in facilitating chromosome attachment, movement and segregation during mitosis.

K-fiber bundles in the mitotic spindle are mechanically reinforced by Kif15

The mitotic spindle, a self-constructed microtubule-based machine, segregates chromosomes during cell division. In mammalian cells, microtubule bundles called kinetochore fibers (k-fibers) connect chromosomes to the spindle poles. Chromosome segregation thus depends on the mechanical integrity of k-fibers. Here we investigate the physical and molecular basis of k-fiber bundle cohesion. We detach k-fibers from poles by laser ablation-based cutting, thus revealing the contribution of pole-localized forces to k-fiber cohesion. We then measure the physical response of the remaining kinetochore-bound segments of the k-fibers. We observe that microtubules within ablated k-fibers often splay apart from their minus-ends. Furthermore, we find that minus-end clustering forces induced by ablation seem at least partially responsible for k-fiber splaying. We also investigate the role of the k-fiber-binding kinesin-12 Kif15. We find that pharmacological inhibition of Kif15-microtubule binding reduces the mechanical integrity of k-fibers. In contrast, inhibition of its motor activity but not its microtubule binding ability, i.e., locking Kif15 into a rigor state, does not greatly affect splaying. Altogether, the data suggest that forces holding k-fibers together are of similar magnitude to other spindle forces, and that Kif15, acting as a microtubule cross-linker, helps fortify and repair k-fibers. This feature of Kif15 may help support robust k-fiber function and prevent chromosome segregation errors.

Kinetochore life histories reveal an Aurora-B-dependent error correction mechanism in anaphase

Chromosome mis-segregation during mitosis leads to aneuploidy, which is a hallmark of cancer and linked to cancer genome evolution. Errors can manifest as "lagging chromosomes" in anaphase, although their mechanistic origins and likelihood of correction are incompletely understood. Here, we combine lattice light-sheet microscopy, endogenous protein labeling, and computational analysis to define the life history of >104 kinetochores. By defining the "laziness" of kinetochores in anaphase, we reveal that chromosomes are at a considerable risk of mis-segregation. We show that the majority of lazy kinetochores are corrected rapidly in anaphase by Aurora B; if uncorrected, they result in a higher rate of micronuclei formation. Quantitative analyses of the kinetochore life histories reveal a dynamic signature of metaphase kinetochore oscillations that forecasts their anaphase fate. We propose that in diploid human cells chromosome segregation is fundamentally error prone, with an additional layer of anaphase error correction required for stable karyotype propagation.

An anaphase surveillance mechanism prevents micronuclei formation from frequent chromosome segregation errors

Micronuclei are a hallmark of cancer and several other human disorders. Recently, micronuclei were implicated in chromothripsis, a series of massive genomic rearrangements that may drive tumor evolution and progression. Here, we show that Aurora B kinase mediates a surveillance mechanism that integrates error correction during anaphase with spatial control of nuclear envelope reassembly to prevent micronuclei formation. Using high-resolution live-cell imaging of human cancer and non-cancer cells, we uncover that anaphase lagging chromosomes are more frequent than previously anticipated, yet they rarely form micronuclei. Micronuclei formation from anaphase lagging chromosomes is prevented by a midzone-based Aurora B phosphorylation gradient that stabilizes kinetochore-microtubule attachments and assists spindle forces required for anaphase error correction while delaying nuclear envelope reassembly on lagging chromosomes, independently of microtubule density. We propose that a midzone-based Aurora B phosphorylation gradient actively monitors and corrects frequent chromosome segregation errors to prevent micronuclei formation during human cell division.

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Anaphase lagging chromosomes are frequent but rarely form micronuclei

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A midzone Aurora B activity gradient prevents micronuclei from segregation errors

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Midzone Aurora B assists spindle forces at the kinetochores to correct errors

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Aurora B spatially regulates nuclear envelope reformation on lagging chromosomes

The Aurora B gradient sustains kinetochore stability in anaphase

Kinetochores assemble on chromosomes in mitosis to allow microtubules to attach and bring about accurate chromosome segregation. The kinases Cyclin B-Cdk1 and Aurora B are crucial for the formation of stable kinetochores. However, the activity of these two kinases appears to decline dramatically at centromeres during anaphase onset, precisely when microtubule attachments are required to move chromosomes toward opposite poles of the dividing cell. We find that, although Aurora B leaves centromeres at anaphase, a gradient of Aurora B activity centered on the central spindle is still able to phosphorylate kinetochore substrates such as Dsn1 to modulate kinetochore stability in anaphase and to regulate kinetochore disassembly as cells enter telophase. We provide a model to explain how Aurora B co-operates with Cyclin B-Cdk1 to maintain kinetochore function in anaphase.

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Central spindle Aurora B targets kinetochore substrates in anaphase

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Phosphorylation of Dsn1 by Aurora B stabilizes kinetochores in anaphase

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Dsn1 phosphorylation modulates chromosome movements in anaphase

Anaphase B: Long-standing models meet new concepts

Mitotic cell divisions ensure stable transmission of genetic information from a mother to daughter cells in a series of generations. To ensure this crucial task is accomplished, the cell forms a bipolar structure called the mitotic spindle that divides sister chromatids to the opposite sides of the dividing mother cell. After successful establishment of stable attachments of microtubules to chromosomes and inspection of connections between them, at the heart of mitosis, the cell starts the process of segregation. This spectacular moment in the life of a cell is termed anaphase, and it involves two distinct processes: depolymerization of microtubules bound to chromosomes, which is also known as anaphase A, and elongation of the spindle or anaphase B. Both processes ensure physical separation of disjointed sister chromatids. In this chapter, we review the mechanisms of anaphase B spindle elongation primarily in mammalian systems, combining different pioneering ideas and concepts with more recent findings that shed new light on the force generation and regulation of biochemical modules operating during spindle elongation. Finally, we present a comprehensive model of spindle elongation that includes structural, biophysical, and molecular aspects of anaphase B.

Distinct classes of lagging chromosome underpin age-related oocyte aneuploidy in mouse

Chromosome segregation errors that cause oocyte aneuploidy increase in frequency with maternal age and are considered a major contributing factor of age-related fertility decline in females. Lagging anaphase chromosomes are a common age-associated phenomenon in oocytes, but whether anaphase laggards actually missegregate and cause aneuploidy is unclear. Here, we show that lagging chromosomes in mouse oocytes comprise two mechanistically distinct classes of chromosome motion that we refer to as "class-I" and "class-II" laggards. We use imaging approaches and mechanistic interventions to dissociate the two classes and find that whereas class-II laggards are largely benign, class-I laggards frequently directly lead to aneuploidy. Most notably, a controlled prolongation of meiosis I specifically lessens class-I lagging to prevent aneuploidy. Our data thus reveal lagging chromosomes to be a cause of age-related aneuploidy in mouse oocytes and suggest that manipulating the cell cycle could increase the yield of useful oocytes in some contexts.

Biomechanics of chromosome alignment at the spindle midplane

During metaphase, chromosomes are aligned in a lineup at the equatorial plane of the spindle to ensure synchronous poleward movement of chromatids in anaphase and proper nuclear reformation at the end of mitosis. Chromosome alignment relies on microtubules, several types of motor protein and numerous other microtubule-associated and regulatory proteins. Because of the multitude of players involved, the mechanisms of chromosome alignment are still under debate. Here, we discuss the current models of alignment based on poleward pulling forces exerted onto sister kinetochores by kinetochore microtubules, which show length-dependent dynamics and undergo poleward flux, and polar ejection forces that push the chromosome arms away from the pole. We link these models with the recent ideas based on mechanical coupling between bridging and kinetochore microtubules, where sliding of bridging microtubules promotes overlap length-dependent sliding of kinetochore fibers and thus the alignment of sister kinetochores at the spindle equator. Finally, we discuss theoretical models of forces acting on chromosomes during metaphase.

The chick blastoderm during diapause, a landmark for optimization of preincubation storage conditions

At the time of oviposition, the chicken embryo is in its blastodermal stage. The blastoderm displays the unique ability to undergo developmental arrest at low temperatures in a process called “embryonic diapause.” In the wild, diapause occurs in freshly laid eggs until the last egg of the clutch has been laid, providing an evolutionary advantage to hens that can synchronously hatch their eggs. The poultry industry utilizes the diapause phenomenon to store eggs before incubation, thereby mitigating their logistic problems. The embryos can only be stored at particular embryonic stages—termed “diapause developmental window” (DW)—if they are to continue to develop normally thereafter. Both cellular and molecular mechanisms define the limits of this DW which broadly comply with onset of blastulation to early gastrulation. Storage conditions affect the cellular and molecular characteristics of the embryo during this window and their ability to successfully resume development (SRD). At storage temperatures of ~12°C to 18°C, embryos can undergo diapause for a short period (up to 7 days (d)) without affecting SRD. However, following longer period of diapause (up to 28 d), embryo stored at ~12°C, but not at ~18°C, can resume development normally. Moreover, eggs can be heated before or during the storage period which will lead to their commencing in development; however, unlike the non-heated embryos, the storage temperature for heated embryos, which are more advance in developing, is not clear. Thus, based on SRD, this review brings evidence supporting the notion that a lower storage temperature is beneficial for early-stage blastoderms whereas a higher storage temperature is favorable for later-stage/gastrulating embryos. Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the relationship between storage temperature and development stage within the DW is rather limited. However, it is expected to become relevant in light of the effect of selective breeding of modern avian birds on the advancement of embryonic development stage. Thus, this review discusses parameters that are regulated during the DW and affect SRD, and presents the need to adopt new storage techniques. The pre-managerial decision of required duration of storage with manipulation of storage temperature in the currently used storage techniques may improve SRD characteristics.

Physiological relevance of post-translational regulation of the spindle assembly checkpoint protein BubR1

BubR1 is an essential component of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) during mitosis where it functions to prevent anaphase onset to ensure proper chromosome alignment and kinetochore-microtubule attachment. Loss or mutation of BubR1 results in aneuploidy that precedes various potential pathologies, including cancer and mosaic variegated aneuploidy (MVA). BubR1 is also progressively downregulated with age and has been shown to be directly involved in the aging process through suppression of cellular senescence. Post-translational modifications, including but not limited to phosphorylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination, play a critical role in the temporal and spatial regulation of BubR1 function. In this review, we discuss the currently characterized post-translational modifications to BubR1, the enzymes involved, and the biological consequences to BubR1 functionality and implications in diseases associated with BubR1. Understanding the molecular mechanisms promoting these modifications and their roles in regulating BubR1 is important for our current understanding and future studies of BubR1 in maintaining genomic integrity as well as in aging and cancer.

Mps1 promotes poleward chromosome movements in meiotic prometaphase

In prophase of meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair and become connected by cross-overs. Chiasmata, the connections formed by cross-overs, enable the chromosome pair, called a bivalent, to attach as a single unit to the spindle. When the meiotic spindle forms in prometaphase, most bivalents are associated with one spindle pole and then go through a series of oscillations on the spindle, attaching to and detaching from microtubules until the partners of the bivalent become bioriented—attached to microtubules from opposite sides of the spindle. The conserved kinase, Mps1, is essential for the bivalents to be pulled by microtubules across the spindle in prometaphase. Here we show that MPS1 is needed for efficient triggering of the migration of microtubule-attached kinetochores toward the poles and promotes microtubule depolymerization. Our data support the model Mps1 acts at the kinetochore to coordinate the successful attachment of a microtubule and the triggering of microtubule depolymerization to then move the chromosome.

The right place at the right time: Aurora B kinase localization to centromeres and kinetochores

The fidelity of chromosome segregation during mitosis is intimately linked to the function of kinetochores, which are large protein complexes assembled at sites of centromeric heterochromatin on mitotic chromosomes. These key "orchestrators" of mitosis physically connect chromosomes to spindle microtubules and transduce forces through these connections to congress chromosomes and silence the spindle assembly checkpoint. Kinetochore-microtubule attachments are highly regulated to ensure that incorrect attachments are not prematurely stabilized, but instead released and corrected. The kinase activity of the centromeric protein Aurora B is required for kinetochore-microtubule destabilization during mitosis, but how the kinase acts on outer kinetochore substrates to selectively destabilize immature and erroneous attachments remains debated. Here, we review recent literature that sheds light on how Aurora B kinase is recruited to both centromeres and kinetochores and discuss possible mechanisms for how kinase interactions with substrates at distinct regions of mitotic chromosomes are regulated.

α-Tubulin detyrosination impairs mitotic error correction by suppressing MCAK centromeric activity

Incorrect kinetochore–microtubule attachments during mitosis can lead to chromosomal instability, a hallmark of human cancers. Mitotic error correction relies on the kinesin-13 MCAK, a microtubule depolymerase whose activity in vitro is suppressed by α-tubulin detyrosination—a posttranslational modification enriched on long-lived microtubules. However, whether and how MCAK activity required for mitotic error correction is regulated by α-tubulin detyrosination remains unknown. Here we found that detyrosinated α-tubulin accumulates on correct, more stable, kinetochore–microtubule attachments. Experimental manipulation of tubulin tyrosine ligase (TTL) or carboxypeptidase (Vasohibins-SVBP) activities to constitutively increase α-tubulin detyrosination near kinetochores compromised efficient error correction, without affecting overall kinetochore microtubule stability. Rescue experiments indicate that MCAK centromeric activity was required and sufficient to correct the mitotic errors caused by excessive α-tubulin detyrosination independently of its global impact on microtubule dynamics. Thus, microtubules are not just passive elements during mitotic error correction, and the extent of α-tubulin detyrosination allows centromeric MCAK to discriminate correct vs. incorrect kinetochore–microtubule attachments, thereby promoting mitotic fidelity.

Mechanobiology of the Mitotic Spindle

The mitotic spindle is a microtubule-based assembly that separates the chromosomes during cell division. As the spindle is basically a mechanical micro machine, the understanding of its functioning is constantly motivating the development of experimental approaches based on mechanical perturbations, which are complementary to and work together with the classical genetics and biochemistry methods. Recent data emerging from these approaches in combination with theoretical modeling led to novel ideas and significant revisions of the basic concepts in the field. In this Perspective, we discuss the advances in the understanding of spindle mechanics, focusing on microtubule forces that control chromosome movements.

RepoMan stimulates the chromosome-dependent pathway of microtubule assembly

RepoMan is a chromosome-associated scaffold protein that integrates signaling of multiple kinases and phosphatases to coordinate spindle-kinetochore interactions, chromosome (de)condensation and nuclear envelope (dis)assembly during mitosis. Another key mitotic event is the assembly of a microtubule-based spindle, which involves redundant pathways emanating from the centrosomes, microtubules and chromosomes. Here we describe a novel mitotic function of RepoMan in regulating chromosome-dependent microtubule assembly. At limiting concentrations of microtubule-destabilizing agents, RepoMan-depleted cells showed enhanced chromosome clustering. This clustering was completely dependent on the partial inhibition of microtubule growth originating from the chromosome-dependent pathway. We also demonstrated that RepoMan interacts with prime regulators of the chromosome-dependent spindle assembly such as NuSAP1, NuMA, and TPX2. In addition, RepoMan was required to enable or maintain phosphorylation of NuSAP1 at CDK sites, thereby enabling activation of NuSAP1 through dissociation of inhibitory importin β/7. Our data identify RepoMan as an enhancer of microtubule assembly at chromosomes.

Aurora B kinase is recruited to multiple discrete kinetochore and centromere regions in human cells

Aurora B kinase has a critical role in regulating attachments between kinetochores and spindle microtubules during mitosis. Early in mitosis, kinase activity at kinetochores is high to promote attachment turnover, and in later mitosis, activity decreases to ensure attachment stabilization. Aurora B localizes prominently to inner centromeres, and a population of the kinase is also detected at kinetochores. How Aurora B is recruited to and evicted from these regions to regulate kinetochore-microtubule attachments remains unclear. Here, we identified and investigated discrete populations of Aurora B at the centromere/kinetochore region. An inner centromere pool is recruited by Haspin phosphorylation of histone H3, and a kinetochore-proximal outer centromere pool is recruited by Bub1 phosphorylation of histone H2A. Finally, a third pool resides ~20 nm outside of the inner kinetochore protein CENP-C in early mitosis and does not require either the Bub1/pH2A/Sgo1 or Haspin/pH3 pathway for localization or activity. Our results suggest that distinct molecular pathways are responsible for Aurora B recruitment to centromeres and kinetochores.

Microtubule Attachment and Centromeric Tension Shape the Protein Architecture of the Human Kinetochore

The nanoscale protein architecture of the kinetochore plays an integral role in specifying the mechanisms underlying its functions in chromosome segregation. However, defining this architecture in human cells remains challenging because of the large size and compositional complexity of the kinetochore. Here, we use Förster resonance energy transfer to reveal the architecture of individual kinetochore-microtubule attachments in human cells. We find that the microtubule-binding domains of the Ndc80 complex cluster at the microtubule plus end. This clustering occurs only after microtubule attachment, and it increases proportionally with centromeric tension. Surprisingly, Ndc80 complex clustering is independent of the organization and number of its centromeric receptors. Moreover, this clustering is similar in yeast and human kinetochores despite significant differences in their centromeric organizations. These and other data suggest that the microtubule-binding interface of the human kinetochore behaves like a flexible "lawn" despite being nucleated by repeating biochemical subunits.

CLASP2 binding to curved microtubule tips promotes flux and stabilizes kinetochore attachments

Girão et al. use structure-guided functional mutants of CLASP2 to show that recognition of growing microtubule plus-ends through EB–protein interaction and the ability to associate with curved microtubule protofilaments through TOG2 and TOG3 domains promote growth and stabilization of kinetochore–microtubules required for poleward flux.

CLASPs are conserved microtubule plus-end–tracking proteins that suppress microtubule catastrophes and independently localize to kinetochores during mitosis. Thus, CLASPs are ideally positioned to regulate kinetochore–microtubule dynamics required for chromosome segregation fidelity, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Here, we found that human CLASP2 exists predominantly as a monomer in solution, but it can self-associate through its C-terminal kinetochore-binding domain. Kinetochore localization was independent of self-association, and driving monomeric CLASP2 to kinetochores fully rescued normal kinetochore–microtubule dynamics, while partially sustaining mitosis. CLASP2 kinetochore localization, recognition of growing microtubule plus-ends through EB–protein interaction, and the ability to associate with curved microtubule protofilaments through TOG2 and TOG3 domains independently sustained normal spindle length, timely spindle assembly checkpoint satisfaction, chromosome congression, and faithful segregation. Measurements of kinetochore–microtubule half-life and poleward flux revealed that CLASP2 regulates kinetochore–microtubule dynamics by integrating distinctive microtubule-binding properties at the kinetochore–microtubule interface. We propose that kinetochore CLASP2 suppresses microtubule depolymerization and detachment by binding to curved protofilaments at microtubule plus-ends.

Individual kinetochore-fibers locally dissipate force to maintain robust mammalian spindle structure

At cell division, the mammalian kinetochore binds many spindle microtubules that make up the kinetochore-fiber. To segregate chromosomes, the kinetochore-fiber must be dynamic and generate and respond to force. Yet, how it remodels under force remains poorly understood. Kinetochore-fibers cannot be reconstituted in vitro, and exerting controlled forces in vivo remains challenging. Here, we use microneedles to pull on mammalian kinetochore-fibers and probe how sustained force regulates their dynamics and structure. We show that force lengthens kinetochore-fibers by persistently favoring plus-end polymerization, not by increasing polymerization rate. We demonstrate that force suppresses depolymerization at both plus and minus ends, rather than sliding microtubules within the kinetochore-fiber. Finally, we observe that kinetochore-fibers break but do not detach from kinetochores or poles. Together, this work suggests an engineering principle for spindle structural homeostasis: different physical mechanisms of local force dissipation by the k-fiber limit force transmission to preserve robust spindle structure. These findings may inform how other dynamic, force-generating cellular machines achieve mechanical robustness.

The Hec1/Ndc80 tail domain is required for force generation at kinetochores, but is dispensable for kinetochore-microtubule attachment formation and Ska complex recruitment

The conserved kinetochore-associated NDC80 complex (composed of Hec1/Ndc80, Nuf2, Spc24, and Spc25) has well-documented roles in mitosis including 1) connecting mitotic chromosomes to spindle microtubules to establish force-transducing kinetochore-microtubule attachments and 2) regulating the binding strength between kinetochores and microtubules such that correct attachments are stabilized and erroneous attachments are released. Although the NDC80 complex plays a central role in forming and regulating attachments to microtubules, additional factors support these processes as well, including the spindle and kinetochore-associated (Ska) complex. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that Ska complexes strengthen attachments by increasing the ability of NDC80 complexes to bind microtubules, especially to depolymerizing microtubule plus ends, but how this is accomplished remains unclear. Using cell-based and in vitro assays, we demonstrate that the Hec1 tail domain is dispensable for Ska complex recruitment to kinetochores and for generation of kinetochore-microtubule attachments in human cells. We further demonstrate that Hec1 tail phosphorylation regulates kinetochore-microtubule attachment stability independently of the Ska complex. Finally, we map the location of the Ska complex in cells to a region near the coiled-coil domain of the NDC80 complex and demonstrate that this region is required for Ska complex recruitment to the NDC80 complex--microtubule interface.

Microneedle manipulation of the mammalian spindle reveals specialized, short-lived reinforcement near chromosomes

The spindle generates force to segregate chromosomes at cell division. In mammalian cells, kinetochore-fibers connect chromosomes to the spindle. The dynamic spindle anchors kinetochore-fibers in space and time to move chromosomes. Yet, how it does so remains poorly understood as we lack tools to directly challenge this anchorage. Here, we adapt microneedle manipulation to exert local forces on the spindle with spatiotemporal control. Pulling on kinetochore-fibers reveals the preservation of local architecture in the spindle-center over seconds. Sister, but not neighbor, kinetochore-fibers remain tightly coupled, restricting chromosome stretching. Further, pulled kinetochore-fibers pivot around poles but not chromosomes, retaining their orientation within 3 μm of chromosomes. This local reinforcement has a 20 s lifetime, and requires the microtubule crosslinker PRC1. Together, these observations indicate short-lived, specialized reinforcement in the spindle center. This could help protect chromosome attachments from transient forces while allowing spindle remodeling, and chromosome movements, over longer timescales.

Small-molecule inhibition of aging-associated chromosomal instability delays cellular senescence

Chromosomal instability (CIN) refers to the rate at which cells are unable to properly segregate whole chromosomes, leading to aneuploidy. Besides its prevalence in cancer cells and postulated implications in promoting tumorigenesis, studies in aneuploidy‐prone mouse models uncovered an unanticipated link between CIN and aging. Using young to old‐aged human dermal fibroblasts, we observed a dysfunction of the mitotic machinery arising with age that mildly perturbs chromosome segregation fidelity and contributes to the generation of fully senescent cells. Here, we investigated mitotic mechanisms that contribute to age‐associated CIN. We found that elderly cells have an increased number of stable kinetochore–microtubule (k‐MT) attachments and decreased efficiency in the correction of improper k‐MT interactions. Chromosome mis‐segregation rates in old‐aged cells decreased upon both genetic and small‐molecule enhancement of MT‐depolymerizing kinesin‐13 activity. Notably, restored chromosome segregation accuracy inhibited the phenotypes of cellular senescence. Therefore, we provide mechanistic insight into age‐associated CIN and disclose a strategy for the use of a small‐molecule to inhibit age‐associated CIN and to delay the cellular hallmarks of aging.

Hec1/Ndc80 Tail Domain Function at the Kinetochore-Microtubule Interface

Successful mitotic cell division is critically dependent on the formation of correct attachments between chromosomes and spindle microtubules. Microtubule attachments are mediated by kinetochores, which are large proteinaceous structures assembled on centromeric chromatin of mitotic chromosomes. These attachments must be sufficiently stable to transduce force; however, the strength of these attachments are also tightly regulated to ensure timely, error-free progression through mitosis. The highly conserved, kinetochore-associated NDC80 complex is a core component of the kinetochore-microtubule attachment machinery in eukaryotic cells. A small, disordered region within the Hec1 subunit of the NDC80 complex – the N-terminal “tail” domain – has been actively investigated during the last decade due to its roles in generating and regulating kinetochore-microtubule attachments. In this review, we discuss the role of the NDC80 complex, and specifically the Hec1 tail domain, at the kinetochore-microtubule interface, and how recent studies provide a more unified view of Hec1 tail domain function.

A comparative analysis of methods to measure kinetochore-microtubule attachment stability

During mitosis, spindle microtubules dynamically attach to and detach from kinetochores in a precise and regulated fashion. To ensure mitotic fidelity, kinetochore-microtubule (k-MT) attachments must be stable enough to satisfy the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), but sufficiently unstable to facilitate the correction of maloriented attachments. Different methods are available to assess k-MT stability in both live and fixed cells, but a comparative survey of these methods has not yet been reported. Here, we evaluate several quantitative and semiquantitative methods for determining k-MT stability and apply each technique to illustrate changes in spindle microtubule dynamics upon perturbation with physiologically relevant concentrations of microtubule stabilizing (Taxol) and destabilizing (UMK57 and nocodazole) compounds. We discuss the utility of each technique for defining specific features of spindle microtubule dynamics and k-MT attachment stability.

Measurement of Microtubule Half-Life and Poleward Flux in the Mitotic Spindle by Photoactivation of Fluorescent Tubulin

The study of microtubule dynamics is of utmost importance for the understanding of the mechanisms underlying mitotic fidelity. During mitosis, the microtubular cytoskeleton reorganizes to assemble a mitotic spindle necessary for chromosome segregation. Several methods, such as controlled exposure to cold, high pressure, high calcium concentration, or microtubule depolymerizing drugs, have been widely used to evaluate the dynamic properties of specific spindle microtubule populations. However, while these methods offer a qualitative approach that is sufficient to discern differences among specific spindle microtubule populations, they fall short in providing a robust quantitative picture that is sensitive enough to highlight minor differences, for example when comparing spindle microtubule dynamics in different genetic backgrounds. In this chapter we describe a detailed methodology to measure spindle microtubule dynamics using photoactivation of fluorescently tagged tubulin in living cells. This methodology allows the quantitative discrimination of the turnover of specific microtubule populations (e.g., kinetochore vs. non-kinetochore microtubules), as well as determination of microtubule poleward flux rates. These two conspicuous features of metazoan spindles must be tightly regulated to allow, on the one hand, efficient error correction, and on the other hand the satisfaction of the spindle assembly checkpoint that controls mitotic fidelity.

Tetraploidy causes chromosomal instability in acentriolar mouse embryos

Tetraploidisation is considered a common event in the evolution of chromosomal instability (CIN) in cancer cells. The current model for how tetraploidy drives CIN in mammalian cells is that a doubling of the number of centrioles that accompany the genome doubling event leads to multipolar spindle formation and chromosome segregation errors. By exploiting the unusual scenario of mouse blastomeres, which lack centrioles until the ~64-cell stage, we show that tetraploidy can drive CIN by an entirely distinct mechanism. Tetraploid blastomeres assemble bipolar spindles dictated by microtubule organising centres, and multipolar spindles are rare. Rather, kinetochore-microtubule turnover is altered, leading to microtubule attachment defects and anaphase chromosome segregation errors. The resulting blastomeres become chromosomally unstable and exhibit a dramatic increase in whole chromosome aneuploidies. Our results thus reveal an unexpected mechanism by which tetraploidy drives CIN, in which the acquisition of chromosomally-unstable microtubule dynamics contributes to chromosome segregation errors following tetraploidisation.

Segregating Chromosomes in the Mammalian Oocyte

Chromosome segregation errors in human oocytes lead to aneuploid embryos that cause infertility and birth defects. Here we provide an overview of the chromosome-segregation process in the mammalian oocyte, highlighting mechanistic differences between oocytes and somatic cells that render oocytes so prone to segregation error. These differences include the extremely large size of the oocyte cytoplasm, the unique geometry of meiosis-I chromosomes, idiosyncratic function of the spindle assembly checkpoint, and dramatically altered oocyte cell-cycle control and spindle assembly, as compared to typical somatic cells. We summarise recent work suggesting that aging leads to a further deterioration in fidelity of chromosome segregation by impacting multiple components of the chromosome-segregation machinery. In addition, we compare and contrast recent results from mouse and human oocytes, which exhibit overlapping defects to differing extents. We conclude that the striking propensity of the oocyte to mis-segregate chromosomes reflects the unique challenges faced by the spindle in a highly unusual cellular environment.

High-resolution imaging reveals how the spindle midzone impacts chromosome movement

Microtubule bundles in the spindle midzone have been reported to either promote or hinder chromosome movement. Pamula et al. examine the assembly dynamics of midzone microtubule bundles during anaphase and how chromosome segregation is impacted by aberrant bundle assembly.

In the spindle midzone, microtubules from opposite half-spindles form bundles between segregating chromosomes. Microtubule bundles can either push or restrict chromosome movement during anaphase in different cellular contexts, but how these activities are achieved remains poorly understood. Here, we use high-resolution live-cell imaging to analyze individual microtubule bundles, growing filaments, and chromosome movement in dividing human cells. Within bundles, filament overlap length marked by the cross-linking protein PRC1 decreases during anaphase as chromosome segregation slows. Filament ends within microtubule bundles appear capped despite dynamic PRC1 turnover and submicrometer proximity to growing microtubules. Chromosome segregation distance and rate are increased in two human cell lines when microtubule bundle assembly is prevented via PRC1 knockdown. Upon expressing a mutant PRC1 with reduced microtubule affinity, bundles assemble but chromosome hypersegregation is still observed. We propose that microtubule overlap length reduction, typically linked to pushing forces generated within filament bundles, is needed to properly restrict spindle elongation and position chromosomes within daughter cells.

Mitotic live-cell imaging at different timescales

Mitosis is a highly dynamic and choreographed process in which chromosomes are captured by the mitotic spindle and physically segregated into the two daughter cells to ensure faithful transmission of the genetic material. Live-cell fluorescence microscopy enables these dynamics to be analyzed over diverse temporal scales. Here we present the methodologies to study chromosome segregation at three timescales: we first show how automated tracking of kinetochores enables investigation of mitotic spindle and chromosome dynamics in the seconds-to-minutes timescale; next we highlight how new DNA live dyes allow the study of chromosome segregation over a period of several hours in any cell line; finally, we demonstrate how image sequences acquired over several days can reveal the fate of whole cell populations over several consecutive cell divisions.

Dissecting the role of the tubulin code in mitosis

Mitosis is an essential process that takes place in all eukaryotes and involves the equal division of genetic material from a parental cell into two identical daughter cells. During mitosis, chromosome movement and segregation are orchestrated by a specialized structure known as the mitotic spindle, composed of a bipolar array of microtubules. The fundamental structure of microtubules comprises of α/β-tubulin heterodimers that associate head-to-tail and laterally to form hollow filaments. In vivo, microtubules are modified by abundant and evolutionarily conserved tubulin posttranslational modifications (PTMs), giving these filaments the potential for a wide chemical diversity. In recent years, the concept of a "tubulin code" has emerged as an extralayer of regulation governing microtubule function. A range of tubulin isoforms, each with a diverse set of PTMs, provides a readable code for microtubule motors and other microtubule-associated proteins. This chapter focuses on the complexity of tubulin PTMs with an emphasis on detyrosination and summarizes the methods currently used in our laboratory to experimentally manipulate these modifications and study their impact in mitosis.

Triple A patient cells suffering from mitotic defects fail to localize PGRMC1 to mitotic kinetochore fibers

Background

Membrane-associated progesterone receptors are restricted to the endoplasmic reticulum and are shown to regulate the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes which are involved in steroidogenesis or drug detoxification. PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 belong to the membrane-associated progesterone receptor family and are of interest due to their suspected role during cell cycle. PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 are thought to bind to each other; thereby suppressing entry into mitosis. We could previously report that PGRMC2 interacts with the nucleoporin ALADIN which when mutated results in the autosomal recessive disorder triple A syndrome. ALADIN is a novel regulator of mitotic controller Aurora kinase A and depletion of this nucleoporin leads to microtubule instability.

Results

In the current study, we present that proliferation is decreased when ALADIN, PGRMC1 or PGRMC2 are over-expressed. Furthermore, we find that depletion of ALADIN results in mislocalization of Aurora kinase A and PGRMC1 in metaphase cells. Additionally, PGRMC2 is over-expressed in triple A patient fibroblasts.

Conclusion

Our results emphasize the possibility that loss of the regulatory association between ALADIN and PGRMC2 gives rise to a depletion of PGRMC1 at kinetochore fibers. This observation may explain part of the symptoms seen in triple A syndrome patients.

The Spindle: Integrating Architecture and Mechanics across Scales

The spindle segregates chromosomes at cell division, and its task is a mechanical one. While we have a nearly complete list of spindle components, how their molecular-scale mechanics give rise to cellular-scale spindle architecture, mechanics, and function is not yet clear. Recent in vitro and in vivo measurements bring new levels of molecular and physical control and shed light on this question. Highlighting recent findings and open questions, we introduce the molecular force generators of the spindle, and discuss how they organize microtubules into diverse architectural modules and give rise to the emergent mechanics of the mammalian spindle. Throughout, we emphasize the breadth of space and time scales at play, and the feedback between spindle architecture, dynamics, and mechanics that drives robust function.

The microtubule-associated protein HURP recruits the centrosomal protein TACC3 to regulate K-fiber formation and support chromosome congression

Kinetochore fibers (K-fibers) are microtubule bundles attached to chromosomes. Efficient K-fiber formation is required for chromosome congression, crucial for faithful chromosome segregation in cells. However, the mechanisms underlying K-fiber formation before chromosome biorientation remain unclear. Depletion of hepatoma up-regulated protein (HURP), a RanGTP-dependent microtubule-associated protein localized on K-fibers, has been shown to result in low-efficiency K-fiber formation. Therefore, here we sought to identify critical interaction partners of HURP that may modulate this function. Using co-immunoprecipitation and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays, we determined that HURP interacts directly with the centrosomal protein transforming acidic coiled coil-containing protein 3 (TACC3), a centrosomal protein, both in vivo and in vitro through the HURP^1-625 region. We found that HURP is important for TACC3 function during kinetochore microtubule assembly at the chromosome region in prometaphase. Moreover, HURP regulates stable lateral kinetochore attachment and chromosome congression in early mitosis by modulation of TACC3. These findings provide new insight into the coordinated regulation of K-fiber formation and chromosome congression in prometaphase by microtubule-associated proteins.

Measuring NDC80 binding reveals the molecular basis of tension-dependent kinetochore-microtubule attachments

Proper kinetochore-microtubule attachments, mediated by the NDC80 complex, are required for error-free chromosome segregation. Erroneous attachments are corrected by the tension dependence of kinetochore-microtubule interactions. Here, we present a method, based on fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy and Förster resonance energy transfer, to quantitatively measure the fraction of NDC80 complexes bound to microtubules at individual kinetochores in living human cells. We found that NDC80 binding is modulated in a chromosome autonomous fashion over prometaphase and metaphase, and is predominantly regulated by centromere tension. We show that this tension dependency requires phosphorylation of the N-terminal tail of Hec1, a component of the NDC80 complex, and the proper localization of Aurora B kinase, which modulates NDC80 binding. Our results lead to a mathematical model of the molecular basis of tension-dependent NDC80 binding to kinetochore microtubules in vivo.

When a cell divides, each new cell that forms needs to contain a complete set of DNA, which is stored in structures called chromosomes. So first, the chromosomes duplicate, and the two copies are held together. A protein structure known as a kinetochore then forms on each copy of the chromosome. The kinetochores act as a pair of hands that pull the chromosome copies apart and toward opposite sides of the dividing cell. They do this by grabbing protein ‘ropes’ called microtubules that extend toward the chromosomes from each side of the cell.

Kinetochores grip the microtubule ropes more tightly when the connection is under greater tension. This helps the kinetochores to remain attached to the microtubules that will separate the chromosome copies while releasing the microtubules that would pull both copies to the same side. Previous research has shown that hundreds of finger-like structures made out of a protein group called NDC80 extend from each kinetochore ‘hand’ and attach to the microtubules. What remains a mystery is whether and how the NDC80 fingers grip the microtubules more tightly when tension is greater in cells.

Yoo et al. developed a technique for counting how many of the available NDC80 fingers of a single kinetochore are attached to microtubules within a living human cell. The new technique combines genetic engineering, fluorescence imaging and statistical methods to quantify the attachment of NDC80 to microtubules over time and space.

Yoo et al. found that more NDC80 bound to microtubules when there was greater tension. This relationship between binding and tension depends on an enzyme called Aurora B, which modifies the tip of each NDC80 finger and consequently changes the binding of NDC80 to microtubules. Yoo et al. further showed that Aurora B needs to be properly placed between two kinetochore hands to make NDC80-microtubule binding dependent on tension. Without this tension dependency, chromosomes could segregate unevenly into the newly formed cells – a problem that can lead to cancer, infertility and birth defects. The results presented by Yoo et al. therefore expand our understanding of how these diseases originate and may eventually help researchers to develop new treatments for them.

Aurora kinase B dependent phosphorylation of 53BP1 is required for resolving merotelic kinetochore-microtubule attachment errors during mitosis

Defects in resolving kinetochore-microtubule attachment mistakes during mitosis is linked to chromosome instability associated with carcinogenesis as well as resistance to cancer therapy. Here we report for the first time that tumor suppressor p53-binding protein 1 (53BP1) is phosphorylated at serine 1342 (S1342) by Aurora kinase B both in vitro and in human cells, which is required for optimal recruitment of 53BP1 at kinetochores. Furthermore, 53BP1 staining normally localized on the outer kinetochore, extended to the whole kinetochore when it is merotelically-attached, in concert with mitotic centromere-associated kinesin. Kinetochore-binding of pS1342-53BP1 is essential for efficient resolving of merotelic attachment, a spontaneous kinetochore-microtubule connection error that usually causes aneuploidy. Consistently, loss of 53BP1 results in significant increase in lagging chromosome events, micronuclei formation and aneuploidy, due to the unresolved merotely in both cancer and primary cells, which is prevented by ectopic wild type 53BP1 but not by the nonphophorylable S1342A mutant. We thus document a novel DNA damage-independent function of 53BP1 in maintaining faithful chromosome segregation during mitosis.

Two-step interphase microtubule disassembly aids spindle morphogenesis

BACKGROUND

Entry into mitosis triggers profound changes in cell shape and cytoskeletal organisation. Here, by studying microtubule remodelling in human flat mitotic cells, we identify a two-step process of interphase microtubule disassembly.

RESULTS

First, a microtubule-stabilising protein, Ensconsin/MAP7, is inactivated in prophase as a consequence of its phosphorylation downstream of Cdk1/cyclin B. This leads to a reduction in interphase microtubule stability that may help to fuel the growth of centrosomally nucleated microtubules. The peripheral interphase microtubules that remain are then rapidly lost as the concentration of tubulin heterodimers falls following dissolution of the nuclear compartment boundary. Finally, we show that a failure to destabilise microtubules in prophase leads to the formation of microtubule clumps, which interfere with spindle assembly.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis highlights the importance of the step-wise remodelling of the microtubule cytoskeleton and the significance of permeabilisation of the nuclear envelope in coordinating the changes in cellular organisation and biochemistry that accompany mitotic entry.

A Regulatory Switch Alters Chromosome Motions at the Metaphase-to-Anaphase Transition

To achieve chromosome segregation during mitosis, sister chromatids must undergo a dramatic change in their behavior to switch from balanced oscillations at the metaphase plate to directed poleward motion during anaphase. However, the factors that alter chromosome behavior at the metaphase-to-anaphase transition remain incompletely understood. Here, we perform time-lapse imaging to analyze anaphase chromosome dynamics in human cells. Using multiple directed biochemical, genetic, and physical perturbations, our results demonstrate that differences in the global phosphorylation states between metaphase and anaphase are the major determinant of chromosome motion dynamics. Indeed, causing a mitotic phosphorylation state to persist into anaphase produces dramatic metaphase-like oscillations. These induced oscillations depend on both kinetochore-derived and polar ejection forces that oppose poleward motion. Thus, our analysis of anaphase chromosome motion reveals that dephosphorylation of multiple mitotic substrates is required to suppress metaphase chromosome oscillatory motions and achieve directed poleward motion for successful chromosome segregation.

Adaptive Resistance to an Inhibitor of Chromosomal Instability in Human Cancer Cells

Karyotype diversity is a hallmark of solid tumors that contributes to intratumor heterogeneity. This diversity is generated by persistent chromosome mis-segregation associated with chromosomal instability (CIN). CIN correlates with tumor relapse and is thought to promote drug resistance by creating a vast genomic landscape through which karyotypically unique clones survive lethal drug selection. We explore this proposition using a small molecule (UMK57) that suppresses chromosome mis-segregation in CIN cancer cells by potentiating the activity of the kinesin-13 protein MCAK. Sublethal doses of UMK57 destabilize kinetochore-microtubule (k-MT) attachments during mitosis to increase chromosome segregation fidelity. Surprisingly, chromosome mis-segregation rebounds in UMK57-treated cancer cells within a few days. This rapid relapse is driven by alterations in the Aurora B signaling pathway that hyper-stabilize k-MT attachments and is reversible following UMK57 removal. Thus, cancer cells display adaptive resistance to therapies targeting CIN through rapid and reversible changes to mitotic signaling networks.

Cyclin A2 modulates kinetochore-microtubule attachment in meiosis II

Cyclin A2 is a crucial mitotic Cdk regulatory partner that coordinates entry into mitosis and is then destroyed in prometaphase within minutes of nuclear envelope breakdown. The role of cyclin A2 in female meiosis and its dynamics during the transition from meiosis I (MI) to meiosis II (MII) remain unclear. We found that cyclin A2 decreases in prometaphase I but recovers after the first meiotic division and persists, uniquely for metaphase, in MII-arrested oocytes. Conditional deletion of cyclin A2 from mouse oocytes has no discernible effect on MI but leads to disrupted MII spindles and increased merotelic attachments. On stimulation of exit from MII, there is a dramatic increase in lagging chromosomes and an inhibition of cytokinesis. These defects are associated with an increase in microtubule stability in MII spindles, suggesting that cyclin A2 mediates the fidelity of MII by maintaining microtubule dynamics during the rapid formation of the MII spindle.

Anaphase A: Disassembling Microtubules Move Chromosomes toward Spindle Poles

The separation of sister chromatids during anaphase is the culmination of mitosis and one of the most strikingly beautiful examples of cellular movement. It consists of two distinct processes: Anaphase A, the movement of chromosomes toward spindle poles via shortening of the connecting fibers, and anaphase B, separation of the two poles from one another via spindle elongation. I focus here on anaphase A chromosome-to-pole movement. The chapter begins by summarizing classical observations of chromosome movements, which support the current understanding of anaphase mechanisms. Live cell fluorescence microscopy studies showed that poleward chromosome movement is associated with disassembly of the kinetochore-attached microtubule fibers that link chromosomes to poles. Microtubule-marking techniques established that kinetochore-fiber disassembly often occurs through loss of tubulin subunits from the kinetochore-attached plus ends. In addition, kinetochore-fiber disassembly in many cells occurs partly through 'flux', where the microtubules flow continuously toward the poles and tubulin subunits are lost from minus ends. Molecular mechanistic models for how load-bearing attachments are maintained to disassembling microtubule ends, and how the forces are generated to drive these disassembly-coupled movements, are discussed.