Bim1p/Yeb1p mediates the Kar9p-dependent cortical attachment of cytoplasmic microtubules

Actin- and microtubule-based motors contribute to clathrin-independent endocytosis in yeast

Most eukaryotic cells utilize clathrin-mediated endocytosis as well as multiple clathrin-independent pathways to internalize proteins and membranes. Although clathrin-mediated endocytosis has been studied extensively and many machinery proteins have been identified, clathrin-independent pathways remain poorly characterized by comparison. We previously identified the first known yeast clathrin-independent endocytic pathway, which relies on the actin-modulating GTPase Rho1, the formin Bni1 and unbranched actin filaments, but does not require the clathrin coat or core clathrin machinery proteins. In this study, we sought to better understand clathrin-independent endocytosis in yeast by exploring the role of myosins as actin-based motors, because actin is required for endocytosis in yeast. We find that Myo2, which transports secretory vesicles, organelles and microtubules along actin cables to sites of polarized growth, participates in clathrin-independent endocytosis. Unexpectedly, the ability of Myo2 to transport microtubule plus ends to the cell cortex appears to be required for its role in clathrin-independent endocytosis. In addition, dynein, dynactin, and proteins involved in cortical microtubule capture are also required. Thus, our results suggest that interplay between actin and microtubules contributes to clathrin-independent internalization in yeast.

Multivalency ensures persistence of a +TIP body at specialized microtubule ends

Microtubule plus-end tracking proteins (+TIPs) control microtubule specialization and are as such essential for cell division and morphogenesis. Here we investigated interactions and functions of the budding yeast Kar9 network consisting of the core +TIP proteins Kar9 (functional homologue of APC, MACF and SLAIN), Bim1 (orthologous to EB1) and Bik1 (orthologous to CLIP-170). A multivalent web of redundant interactions links the three +TIPs together to form a '+TIP body' at the end of chosen microtubules. This body behaves as a liquid condensate that allows it to persist on both growing and shrinking microtubule ends, and to function as a mechanical coupling device between microtubules and actin cables. Our study identifies nanometre-scale condensates as effective cellular structures and underlines the power of dissecting the web of low-affinity interactions driving liquid-liquid phase separation in order to establish how condensation processes support cell function.

The TOG protein Stu2 is regulated by acetylation

Stu2 in S. cerevisiae is a member of the XMAP215/Dis1/CKAP5/ch-TOG family of MAPs and has multiple functions in controlling microtubules, including microtubule polymerization, microtubule depolymerization, linking chromosomes to the kinetochore, and assembly of γ-TuSCs at the SPB. Whereas phosphorylation has been shown to be critical for Stu2 localization at the kinetochore, other regulatory mechanisms that control Stu2 function are still poorly understood. Here, we show that a novel form of Stu2 regulation occurs through the acetylation of three lysine residues at K252, K469, and K870, which are located in three distinct domains of Stu2. Alteration of acetylation through acetyl-mimetic and acetyl-blocking mutations did not impact the essential function of Stu2. Instead, these mutations lead to a decrease in chromosome stability, as well as changes in resistance to the microtubule depolymerization drug, benomyl. In agreement with our in silico modeling, several acetylation-mimetic mutants displayed increased interactions with γ-tubulin. Taken together, these data suggest that Stu2 acetylation can govern multiple Stu2 functions, including chromosome stability and interactions at the SPB.

Microtubules are proteinaceous polymers that play several important roles in cell division and segregation of the genetic material to each daughter cell. The functions of microtubules are critically dependent upon their dynamic properties in which tubulin subunits are added or removed from the microtubule end, allowing microtubules to grow or shorten in length. These dynamic properties are controlled by several types of microtubule associated proteins. In this study using bakers yeast, we describe our discovery of a previously unappreciated way to regulate the microtubule associated protein Stu2 by a modification called acetylation. When we created mutations in the Stu2 protein that can’t be properly acetylated, the cell lost some of its chromosomes. Some of these mutations actually caused the microtubules to be resistant to drugs that normally disassemble the microtubule polymer. As similar versions of the Stu2 protein are found in diverse organisms that range from yeast and fungus, to plants, insects, mammals and humans, our work could provide unique insights into how microtubules malfunction in some human diseases. With further studies, this may provide a new understanding of chromosome loss in birth defects and/or cancer.

Microtubule-associated proteins and motors required for ectopic microtubule array formation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The mitotic spindle is resilient to perturbation due to the concerted, and sometimes redundant, action of motors and microtubule-associated proteins. Here, we utilize an inducible ectopic microtubule nucleation site in the nucleus of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to study three necessary steps in the formation of a bipolar array: the recruitment of the γ-tubulin complex, nucleation and elongation of microtubules (MTs), and the organization of MTs relative to each other. This novel tool, an Spc110 chimera, reveals previously unreported roles of the microtubule-associated proteins Stu2, Bim1, and Bik1, and the motors Vik1 and Kip3. We report that Stu2 and Bim1 are required for nucleation and that Bik1 and Kip3 promote nucleation at the ectopic site. Stu2, Bim1, and Kip3 join their homologs XMAP215, EB1 and kinesin-8 as promoters of microtubule nucleation, while Bik1 promotes MT nucleation indirectly via its role in SPB positioning. Furthermore, we find that the nucleation activity of Stu2 in vivo correlates with its polymerase activity in vitro. Finally, we provide the first evidence that Vik1, a subunit of Kar3/Vik1 kinesin-14, promotes microtubule minus end focusing at the ectopic site.

Cargo Release from Myosin V Requires the Convergence of Parallel Pathways that Phosphorylate and Ubiquitylate the Cargo Adaptor

Cellular function requires molecular motors to transport cargoes to their correct intracellular locations. The regulated assembly and disassembly of motor-adaptor complexes ensures that cargoes are loaded at their origin and unloaded at their destination. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, early in the cell cycle, a portion of the vacuole is transported into the emerging bud. This transport requires a myosin V motor, Myo2, which attaches to the vacuole via Vac17, the vacuole-specific adaptor protein. Vac17 also binds to Vac8, a vacuolar membrane protein. Once the vacuole is brought to the bud cortex via the Myo2-Vac17-Vac8 complex, Vac17 is degraded and the vacuole is released from Myo2. However, mechanisms governing dissociation of the Myo2-Vac17-Vac8 complex are not well understood. Ubiquitylation of the Vac17 adaptor at the bud cortex provides spatial regulation of vacuole release. Here, we report that ubiquitylation alone is not sufficient for cargo release. We find that a parallel pathway, which initiates on the vacuole, converges with ubiquitylation to release the vacuole from Myo2. Specifically, we show that Yck3 and Vps41, independent of their known roles in homotypic fusion and protein sorting (HOPS)-mediated vesicle tethering, are required for the phosphorylation of Vac17 in its Myo2 binding domain. These phosphorylation events allow ubiquitylated Vac17 to be released from Myo2 and Vac8. Our data suggest that Vps41 is regulating the phosphorylation of Vac17 via Yck3, a casein kinase I, and likely another unknown kinase. That parallel pathways are required to release the vacuole from Myo2 suggests that multiple signals are integrated to terminate organelle inheritance.

A neurodevelopmental TUBB2B β-tubulin mutation impairs Bim1 (yeast EB1)-dependent spindle positioning

Malformations of the human cerebral cortex can be caused by mutations in tubulins that associate to compose microtubules. Cerebral cortical folding relies on neuronal migration and on progenitor proliferation partly dictated by microtubule-dependent mitotic spindle positioning. A single amino acid change, F265L, in the conserved TUBB2B β-tubulin gene has been identified in patients with abnormal cortex formation. A caveat for studying this mutation in mammalian cells is that nine genes encode β-tubulin in human. Here, we generate a yeast strain expressing F265L tubulin mutant as the sole source of β-tubulin. The F265L mutation does not preclude expression of a stable β-tubulin protein which is incorporated into microtubules. However, impaired cell growth was observed at high temperatures along with altered microtubule dynamics and stability. In addition, F265L mutation produces a highly specific mitotic spindle positioning defect related to Bim1 (yeast EB1) dysfunction. Indeed, F265L cells display an abnormal Bim1 recruitment profile at microtubule plus-ends. These results indicate that the F265L β-tubulin mutation affects microtubule plus-end complexes known to be important for microtubule dynamics and for microtubule function during mitotic spindle positioning.

The microtubule polymerase Stu2 promotes oligomerization of the γ-TuSC for cytoplasmic microtubule nucleation

Stu2/XMAP215/ZYG-9/Dis1/Alp14/Msps/ch-TOG family members in association with with γ-tubulin complexes nucleate microtubules, but we know little about the interplay of these nucleation factors. Here, we show that the budding yeast Stu2 in complex with the γ-tubulin receptor Spc72 nucleates microtubules in vitro without the small γ-tubulin complex (γ-TuSC). Upon γ-TuSC addition, Stu2 facilitates Spc72–γ-TuSC interaction by binding to Spc72 and γ-TuSC. Stu2 together with Spc72–γ-TuSC increases microtubule nucleation in a process that is dependent on the TOG domains of Stu2. Importantly, these activities are also important for microtubule nucleation in vivo. Stu2 stabilizes Spc72–γ-TuSC at the minus end of cytoplasmic microtubules (cMTs) and an in vivo assay indicates that cMT nucleation requires the TOG domains of Stu2. Upon γ-tubulin depletion, we observed efficient cMT nucleation away from the spindle pole body (SPB), which was dependent on Stu2. Thus, γ-TuSC restricts cMT assembly to the SPB whereas Stu2 nucleates cMTs together with γ-TuSC and stabilizes γ-TuSC at the cMT minus end.

The TOG protein Stu2/XMAP215 interacts covalently and noncovalently with SUMO

Stu2p is the yeast member of the XMAP215/Dis1/ch‐TOG family of microtubule‐associated proteins that promote microtubule polymerization. However, the factors that regulate its activity are not clearly understood. Here we report that Stu2p in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae interacts with SUMO by covalent and noncovalent mechanisms. Stu2p interacted by two‐hybrid analysis with the yeast SUMO Smt3p, its E2 Ubc9p, and the E3 Nfi1p. A region of Stu2p containing the dimerization domain was both necessary and sufficient for interaction with SUMO and Ubc9p. Stu2p was found to be sumoylated both in vitro and in vivo. Stu2p copurified with SUMO in a pull‐down assay and vice versa. Stu2p also bound to a nonconjugatable form of SUMO, suggesting that Stu2p can interact noncovalently with SUMO. In addition, Stu2p interacted with the STUbL enzyme Ris1p. Stu2p also copurified with ubiquitin in a pull‐down assay, suggesting that it can be modified by both SUMO and ubiquitin. Tubulin, a major binding partner of Stu2p, also interacted noncovalently with SUMO. By two‐hybrid analysis, the beta‐tubulin Tub2p interacted with SUMO independently of the microtubule stressor, benomyl. Together, these findings raise the possibility that the microtubule polymerization activities mediated by Stu2p are regulated through sumoylation pathways.

Nuclear movement in fungi

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

Spatial cues and not spindle pole maturation drive the asymmetry of astral microtubules between new and preexisting spindle poles

The distinct behavior of the spindle pole bodies (SPBs) during spindle orientation in yeast metaphase does not result from them being differently mature, but astral microtubule organization correlates with the subcellular position rather than the age of the SPBs.

In many asymmetrically dividing cells, the microtubule-organizing centers (MTOCs; mammalian centrosome and yeast spindle pole body [SPB]) nucleate more astral microtubules on one of the two spindle poles than the other. This differential activity generally correlates with the age of MTOCs and contributes to orienting the mitotic spindle within the cell. The asymmetry might result from the two MTOCs being in distinctive maturation states. We investigated this model in budding yeast. Using fluorophores with different maturation kinetics to label the outer plaque components of the SPB, we found that the Cnm67 protein is mobile, whereas Spc72 is not. However, these two proteins were rapidly as abundant on both SPBs, indicating that SPBs mature more rapidly than anticipated. Superresolution microscopy confirmed this finding for Spc72 and for the γ-tubulin complex. Moreover, astral microtubule number and length correlated with the subcellular localization of SPBs rather than their age. Kar9-dependent orientation of the spindle drove the differential activity of the SPBs in astral microtubule organization rather than intrinsic differences between the spindle poles. Together, our data establish that Kar9 and spatial cues, rather than the kinetics of SPB maturation, control the asymmetry of astral microtubule organization between the preexisting and new SPBs.

TORC1 signaling exerts spatial control over microtubule dynamics by promoting nuclear export of Stu2

TORC1 regulates microtubule (MT) dynamics in budding yeast, but the key downstream effectors are unknown. van der Vaart et al. show that TORC1 activity before mitosis promotes phosphorylation of the MT polymerase Stu2 near a nuclear export signal, which leads to the nuclear export of Stu2 and reduced nuclear MT growth.

The target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1) is a highly conserved multiprotein complex that functions in many cellular processes, including cell growth and cell cycle progression. In this study, we define a novel role for TORC1 as a critical regulator of nuclear microtubule (MT) dynamics in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This activity requires interactions between EB1 and CLIP-170 plus end–tracking protein (+TIP) family members with the TORC1 subunit Kog1/Raptor, which in turn allow the TORC1 proximal kinase Sch9/S6K1 to regulate the MT polymerase Stu2/XMAP215. Sch9-dependent phosphorylation of Stu2 adjacent to a nuclear export signal prevents nuclear accumulation of Stu2 before cells enter mitosis. Mutants impaired in +TIP–TORC1 interactions or Stu2 nuclear export show increased nuclear but not cytoplasmic MT length and display nuclear fusion, spindle positioning, and elongation kinetics defects. Our results reveal key mechanisms by which TORC1 signaling controls Stu2 localization and thereby contributes to proper MT cytoskeletal organization in interphase and mitosis.

A Functional Link Between Bir1 and the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ctf19 Kinetochore Complex Revealed Through Quantitative Fitness Analysis

The chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) is a key regulator of eukaryotic cell division, consisting of the protein kinase Aurora B/Ipl1 in association with its activator (INCENP/Sli15) and two additional proteins (Survivin/Bir1 and Borealin/Nbl1). Here, we report a genome-wide genetic interaction screen in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using the bir1-17 mutant, identifying through quantitative fitness analysis deletion mutations that act as enhancers and suppressors. Gene knockouts affecting the Ctf19 kinetochore complex were identified as the strongest enhancers of bir1-17, while mutations affecting the large ribosomal subunit or the mRNA nonsense-mediated decay pathway caused strong phenotypic suppression. Thus, cells lacking a functional Ctf19 complex become highly dependent on Bir1 function and vice versa. The negative genetic interaction profiles of bir1-17 and the cohesin mutant mcd1-1 showed considerable overlap, underlining the strong functional connection between sister chromatid cohesion and chromosome biorientation. Loss of some Ctf19 components, such as Iml3 or Chl4, impacted differentially on bir1-17 compared with mutations affecting other CPC components: despite the synthetic lethality shown by either iml3∆ or chl4∆ in combination with bir1-17, neither gene knockout showed any genetic interaction with either ipl1-321 or sli15-3 Our data therefore imply a specific functional connection between the Ctf19 complex and Bir1 that is not shared with Ipl1.

PP2A-B' holoenzyme substrate recognition, regulation and role in cytokinesis

Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a major Ser/Thr phosphatase; it forms diverse heterotrimeric holoenzymes that counteract kinase actions. Using a peptidome that tiles the disordered regions of the human proteome, we identified proteins containing [LMFI]xx[ILV]xEx motifs that serve as interaction sites for B′-family PP2A regulatory subunits and holoenzymes. The B′-binding motifs have important roles in substrate recognition and in competitive inhibition of substrate binding. With more than 100 novel ligands identified, we confirmed that the recently identified LxxIxEx B′α-binding motifs serve as common binding sites for B′ subunits with minor variations, and that S/T phosphorylation or D/E residues at positions 2, 7, 8 and 9 of the motifs reinforce interactions. Hundreds of proteins in the human proteome harbor intrinsic or phosphorylation-responsive B′-interaction motifs, and localize at distinct cellular organelles, such as midbody, predicting kinase-facilitated recruitment of PP2A-B′ holoenzymes for tight spatiotemporal control of phosphorylation at mitosis and cytokinesis. Moroever, Polo-like kinase 1-mediated phosphorylation of Cyk4/RACGAP1, a centralspindlin component at the midbody, facilitates binding of both RhoA guanine nucleotide exchange factor (epithelial cell transforming sequence 2 (Ect2)) and PP2A-B′ that in turn dephosphorylates Cyk4 and disrupts Ect2 binding. This feedback signaling loop precisely controls RhoA activation and specifies a restricted region for cleavage furrow ingression. Our results provide a framework for further investigation of diverse signaling circuits formed by PP2A-B′ holoenzymes in various cellular processes.

The microtubule end-binding protein FgEB1 regulates polar growth and fungicide sensitivity via different interactors in Fusarium graminearum

In yeasts, the end-binding protein 1 (EB1) homologs regulate microtubule dynamics, cell polarization, and chromosome stability. However, functions of EB1 orthologs in plant pathogenic fungi have not been characterized yet. Here, we observed that the FgEB1 deletion mutant (ΔFgEB1) of Fusarium graminearum exhibits twisted hyphae, increased hyphal branching and curved conidia, indicating that FgEB1 is involved in the regulation of cellular polarity. Microscopic examination further showed that the microtubules of ΔFgEB1 exhibited less organized in comparison with those of the wild type. In addition, the lack of FgEB1 also altered the distribution of polarity-related class I myosin via the interaction with the actin. On the other hand, we identified four core septins as FgEB1-interacting proteins, and found that FgEB1 and septins regulated conidial polar growth in the opposite orientation. Interestingly, FgEB1 and FgKar9 constituted another complex that modulated the response to carbendazim, a microtubule-damaging agent specifically. In addition, the deletion of FgEB1 led to dramatically decreased deoxynivalenol (DON) biosynthesis. Taken together, results of this study indicate that FgEB1 regulates cellular polarity, fungicide sensitivity and DON biosynthesis via different interactors in F. graminarum, which provides a novel insight into understanding of the biological functions of EB1 in filamentous fungi.

Kar9 controls the nucleocytoplasmic distribution of yeast EB1

The precise temporal and spatial concentration of microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) within the cell is fundamental to ensure chromosome segregation and correct spindle positioning. MAPs form an intricate web of interactions among each other and compete for binding sites on microtubules. Therefore, when assessing cellular phenotypes upon MAP up- or downregulation, it is important to consider the protein interaction network between individual MAPs. Here, we show that changes in the amounts of the spindle positioning factor Kar9 specifically affect the distribution of yeast EB1 on spindle microtubules, without influencing other microtubule-associated interacting partners of Kar9, i.e. yeast XMAP215 and CLIP-170. Alterations in the distribution of yeast EB1 explain chromosome segregation defects upon knockout, overexpression or stabilization of Kar9 and provide an example for non-linear effects on MAP behavior after perturbation of their equilibrium.

Molecular basis of Kar9-Bim1 complex function during mating and spindle positioning

The Kar9 pathway promotes nuclear fusion during mating and spindle alignment during metaphase in budding yeast. How Kar9 supports the different outcome of these two divergent processes is an open question. Here, we show that three sites in the C-terminal disordered domain of Kar9 mediate tight Kar9 interaction with the C-terminal dimerization domain of Bim1 (EB1 orthologue). Site1 and Site2 contain SxIP motifs; however, Site3 defines a novel type of EB1-binding site. Whereas Site2 and Site3 mediate Kar9 recruitment to microtubule tips, nuclear movement and karyogamy, solely Site2 functions in spindle positioning during metaphase. Site1 in turn plays an inhibitory role during mating. Additionally, the Kar9-Bim1 complex is involved in microtubule-independent activities during mating. Together, our data reveal how multiple and partially redundant EB1-binding sites provide a microtubule-associated protein with the means to modulate its biochemical properties to promote different molecular processes during cell proliferation and differentiation.

Regulation of a Spindle Positioning Factor at Kinetochores by SUMO-Targeted Ubiquitin Ligases

Correct function of the mitotic spindle requires balanced interplay of kinetochore and astral microtubules that mediate chromosome segregation and spindle positioning, respectively. Errors therein can cause severe defects ranging from aneuploidy to developmental disorders. Here, we describe a protein degradation pathway that functionally links astral microtubules to kinetochores via regulation of a microtubule-associated factor. We show that the yeast spindle positioning protein Kar9 localizes not only to astral but also to kinetochore microtubules, where it becomes targeted for proteasomal degradation by the SUMO-targeted ubiquitin ligases (STUbLs) Slx5-Slx8. Intriguingly, this process does not depend on preceding sumoylation of Kar9 but rather requires SUMO-dependent recruitment of STUbLs to kinetochores. Failure to degrade Kar9 leads to defects in both chromosome segregation and spindle positioning. We propose that kinetochores serve as platforms to recruit STUbLs in a SUMO-dependent manner in order to ensure correct spindle function by regulating levels of microtubule-associated proteins.

Rad7 E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Attenuates Polyubiquitylation of Rpn10 and Dsk2 Following DNA Damage in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

During Nucleotide Excision Repair (NER) in the yeast S. cerevisiae, ubiquitylation of Rad4 is carried out by the E3 ubiquitin ligase that includes Rad7-Elc1-Cul3 and is critical to optimal NER. Rad7 E3 activity targets Rad4 for degradation by the proteaseome but, in principle, could also trigger other DNA damage responses. We observed increased nuclear ubiquitin foci (Ub-RFP) formation in S. cerevisiae containing a Rad7 E3 ligase mutant (rad7SOCS) in response to DNA damage by benzo[a]pyrenediolepoxide (BPDE) in dividing cells. Immunoblots reveal that ubiquitin conjugates of Rpn10 and Dsk2 accumulate in greater abundance in rad7SOCS compared to RAD7 in dividing cells in response to BPDE which makes Rpn10 and Dsk2 candidates for being the ubiquitylated species observed in our microscopy experiments. Microscopy analysis with strains containing Dsk2-GFP shows that Dsk2-GFP and Dsk2-GFP/Ub-RFP colocalized in nuclear foci form to an increased extent in a rad7SOCS mutant background in dividing cells than in a RAD7 wild-type strain. Further, Dsk2-GFP in the rad7SOCS strain formed more foci at the plasma membrane following BPDE treatment in dividing cells relative to strains containing RAD7 or a rad7Δ deletion mutant. In response to a different agent, UV irradiation, levels of ubiquitylated proteins were increased in rad7SOCS relative to RAD7, and the proteasomal deubiquitylase subunit, Rpn11 was even monoubiquitylated in the absence of damaging agents. Together these data show that Rad7 E3 activity attenuates ubiquitylation of proteins regulating the shuttling of polyubiquitylated proteins to the proteasome (Dsk2 and Rpn10) and removal of ubiquitin chains just prior to degradation (Rpn11). Since Rad7 E3 ligase activity has been shown to increase ubiquitylation of its target proteins, yet our results show increased ubiquitylation in the absence of Rad7 E3, we suggest that Rad7 E3 action regulates ubiquitin ligase and deubiquitylase (DUB) activities that act on Rpn10, Dsk2 and Rpn11.

Yeast GSK-3 kinase regulates astral microtubule function through phosphorylation of the microtubule-stabilizing kinesin Kip2

The S. cerevisiae kinesin Kip2 stabilises astral microtubules (MTs) and facilitates spindle positioning through transport of MT-associated proteins, such as the yeast CLIP-170 homologue Bik1, dynein and the adenomatous-polyposis-coli-related protein Kar9 to the plus ends of astral MTs. Here, we show that Kip2 associates with its processivity factor Bim1, the yeast homologue of the plus-end-tracking protein EB1. This interaction requires an EB1-binding motif in the N-terminal extension of Kip2 and is negatively regulated by phosphorylation through Mck1, the yeast glycogen synthase kinase 3. In addition, Mck1-dependent phosphorylation decreases the intrinsic MT affinity of Kip2. Reduction in Kip2 phosphorylation leads to stabilisation of astral MTs, and accumulation of Kip2, dynein and Kar9 at MT plus ends, whereas loss of Mck1 function leads to defects in spindle positioning. Furthermore, we provide evidence that a subpopulation of Mck1 at the bud-cortex phosphorylates Kip2. We propose that yeast GSK-3 spatially controls astral MT dynamics and the loading of dynein and Kar9 on astral MT plus ends by regulating Kip2 interactions with Bim1 and MTs.

Yeast GSK-3 kinase regulates astral microtubule function through phosphorylation of the microtubule-stabilizing kinesin Kip2

The S. cerevisiae kinesin Kip2 stabilises astral microtubules (MTs) and facilitates spindle positioning through transport of MT-associated proteins, such as the yeast CLIP-170 homologue Bik1, dynein and the adenomatous-polyposis-coli-related protein Kar9 to the plus ends of astral MTs. Here, we show that Kip2 associates with its processivity factor Bim1, the yeast homologue of the plus-end-tracking protein EB1. This interaction requires an EB1-binding motif in the N-terminal extension of Kip2 and is negatively regulated by phosphorylation through Mck1, the yeast glycogen synthase kinase 3. In addition, Mck1-dependent phosphorylation decreases the intrinsic MT affinity of Kip2. Reduction in Kip2 phosphorylation leads to stabilisation of astral MTs, and accumulation of Kip2, dynein and Kar9 at MT plus ends, whereas loss of Mck1 function leads to defects in spindle positioning. Furthermore, we provide evidence that a subpopulation of Mck1 at the bud-cortex phosphorylates Kip2. We propose that yeast GSK-3 spatially controls astral MT dynamics and the loading of dynein and Kar9 on astral MT plus ends by regulating Kip2 interactions with Bim1 and MTs.

Summary: The yeast GSK-3 kinase controls astral microtubule functions by regulating the interaction of the microtubule-stabilising kinesin Kip2 with microtubules and its processivity factor Bim1/EB1.

Genetic evidence for a microtubule-capture mechanism during polarised growth of Aspergillus nidulans

The cellular switch from symmetry to polarity in eukaryotes depends on the microtubule (MT) and actin cytoskeletons. In fungi such as Schizosaccharomyces pombe or Aspergillus nidulans, the MT cytoskeleton determines the sites of actin polymerization through cortical cell-end marker proteins. Here we describe A. nidulans MT guidance protein A (MigA) as the first ortholog of the karyogamy protein Kar9 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae in filamentous fungi. A. nidulans MigA interacts with the cortical ApsA protein and is involved in spindle positioning during mitosis. MigA is also associated with septal and nuclear MT organizing centers (MTOCs). Super-resolution photoactivated localization microscopy (PALM) analyses revealed that MigA is recruited to assembling and retracting MT plus ends in an EbA-dependent manner. MigA is required for MT convergence in hyphal tips and plays a role in correct localization of the cell-end markers TeaA and TeaR. In addition, MigA interacts with a class-V myosin, suggesting that an active mechanism exists to capture MTs and to pull the ends along actin filaments. Hence, the organization of MTs and actin depend on each other, and positive feedback loops ensure robust polar growth.

Emerging roles of sumoylation in the regulation of actin, microtubules, intermediate filaments, and septins

Sumoylation is a powerful regulatory system that controls many of the critical processes in the cell, including DNA repair, transcriptional regulation, nuclear transport, and DNA replication. Recently, new functions for SUMO have begun to emerge. SUMO is covalently attached to components of each of the four major cytoskeletal networks, including microtubule-associated proteins, septins, and intermediate filaments, in addition to nuclear actin and actin-regulatory proteins. However, knowledge of the mechanisms by which this signal transduction system controls the cytoskeleton is still in its infancy. One story that is beginning to unfold is that SUMO may regulate the microtubule motor protein dynein by modification of its adaptor Lis1. In other instances, cytoskeletal elements can both bind to SUMO non-covalently and also be conjugated by it. The molecular mechanisms for many of these new functions are not yet clear, but are under active investigation. One emerging model links the function of MAP sumoylation to protein degradation through SUMO-targeted ubiquitin ligases, also known as STUbL enzymes. Other possible functions for cytoskeletal sumoylation are also discussed.

The transmission of nuclear pore complexes to daughter cells requires a cytoplasmic pool of Nsp1

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) are essential protein assemblies that span the nuclear envelope and establish nuclear-cytoplasmic compartmentalization. We have investigated mechanisms that control NPC number in mother and daughter cells during the asymmetric division of budding yeast. By simultaneously tracking existing NPCs and newly synthesized NPC protomers (nups) through anaphase, we uncovered a pool of the central channel nup Nsp1 that is actively targeted to the bud in association with endoplasmic reticulum. Bud targeting required an intact actin cytoskeleton and the class V myosin, Myo2. Selective inhibition of cytoplasmic Nsp1 or inactivation of Myo2 reduced the inheritance of NPCs in daughter cells, leading to a daughter-specific loss of viability. Our data are consistent with a model in which Nsp1 releases a barrier that otherwise prevents NPC passage through the bud neck. It further supports the finding that NPC inheritance, not de novo NPC assembly, is primarily responsible for controlling NPC number in daughter cells.

A fluorescent reporter for mapping cellular protein-protein interactions in time and space

A method based on a combination of the Split-Ubiquitin system with two spectrally different fluorescent proteins (SPLIFF) is shown to enable measurement of protein interactions in vivo with high spatial and temporal resolution in yeast.

SPLIFF visualizes protein interactions with high spatial and temporal resolution.

Spc72p and Kar9p interact with the MAP Stu2p at opposite poles of microtubules.

Histone chaperone Nap1p and Kcc4 kinase interact preferentially at the bud site.

F-BAR protein Hof1p associates with the polarisome during cell fusion and cytokinesis.

We introduce a fluorescent reporter for monitoring protein–protein interactions in living cells. The method is based on the Split-Ubiquitin method and uses the ratio of two auto-fluorescent reporter proteins as signal for interaction (SPLIFF). The mating of two haploid yeast cells initiates the analysis and the interactions are followed online by two-channel time-lapse microscopy of the diploid cells during their first cell cycle. Using this approach we could with high spatio-temporal resolution visualize the differences between the interactions of the microtubule binding protein Stu2p with two of its binding partners, monitor the transient association of a Ran-GTPase with its receptors at the nuclear pore, and distinguish between protein interactions at the polar cortical domain at different phases of polar growth. These examples further demonstrate that protein–protein interactions identified from large-scale screens can be effectively followed up by high-resolution single-cell analysis.

Mechanisms of spindle positioning

Accurate positioning of spindles is essential for asymmetric mitotic and meiotic cell divisions that are crucial for animal development and oocyte maturation, respectively. The predominant model for spindle positioning, termed "cortical pulling," involves attachment of the microtubule-based motor cytoplasmic dynein to the cortex, where it exerts a pulling force on microtubules that extend from the spindle poles to the cell cortex, thereby displacing the spindle. Recent studies have addressed important details of the cortical pulling mechanism and have revealed alternative mechanisms that may be used when microtubules do not extend from the spindle to the cortex.

The yeast homologue of the microtubule-associated protein Lis1 interacts with the sumoylation machinery and a SUMO-targeted ubiquitin ligase

The two yeast members of the CLIP-170/Bik1p and Lis1/Pac1p families of microtubule-associated proteins are shown to interact with the sumoylation machinery and the STUbL complex Ris1p–Nis1p. Pac1p can be modified by both SUMO and ubiquitin. The She1 regulator of dynactin is identified as a novel inhibitor of Pac1p modification.

Microtubules and microtubule-associated proteins are fundamental for multiple cellular processes, including mitosis and intracellular motility, but the factors that control microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) are poorly understood. Here we show that two MAPs—the CLIP-170 homologue Bik1p and the Lis1 homologue Pac1p—interact with several proteins in the sumoylation pathway. Bik1p and Pac1p interact with Smt3p, the yeast SUMO; Ubc9p, an E2; and Nfi1p, an E3. Bik1p interacts directly with SUMO in vitro, and overexpression of Smt3p and Bik1p results in its in vivo sumoylation. Modified Pac1p is observed when the SUMO protease Ulp1p is inactivated. Both ubiquitin and Smt3p copurify with Pac1p. In contrast to ubiquitination, sumoylation does not directly tag the substrate for degradation. However, SUMO-targeted ubiquitin ligases (STUbLs) can recognize a sumoylated substrate and promote its degradation via ubiquitination and the proteasome. Both Pac1p and Bik1p interact with the STUbL Nis1p-Ris1p and the protease Wss1p. Strains deleted for RIS1 or WSS1 accumulate Pac1p conjugates. This suggests a novel model in which the abundance of these MAPs may be regulated via STUbLs. Pac1p modification is also altered by Kar9p and the dynein regulator She1p. This work has implications for the regulation of dynein's interaction with various cargoes, including its off-loading to the cortex.

The MEN mediates the effects of the spindle assembly checkpoint on Kar9-dependent spindle pole body inheritance in budding yeast

Many asymmetrically dividing cells segregate the poles of the mitotic spindle non-randomly between their two daughters. In budding yeast, the protein Kar9 localizes almost exclusively to the astral microtubules emanating from the old spindle pole body (SPB) and promotes its movement toward the bud. Thereby, Kar9 orients the spindle relative to the division axis. Here, we show that beyond perturbing Kar9 distribution, activation of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) randomizes SPB inheritance. Inactivation of the B-type cyclin Clb5 led to a SAC-dependent defect in Kar9 orientation and SPB segregation. Furthermore, unlike the Clb4-dependent pathway, the Clb5- and SAC-dependent pathways functioned genetically upstream of the mitotic exit network (MEN) in SPB specification and Kar9-dependent SPB inheritance. Together, our study indicates that Clb5 functions in spindle assembly and that the SAC controls the specification and inheritance of yeast SPBs through inhibition of the MEN.

Mitotic spindle form and function

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

Overlap of cargo binding sites on myosin V coordinates the inheritance of diverse cargoes

Vacuole- and mitochondria-specific cargo adaptors compete for an overlapping binding site on Myo2 to determine the inheritance of these organelles during budding.

During cell division, organelles are distributed to distinct locations at specific times. For the yeast vacuole, the myosin V motor, Myo2, and its vacuole-specific cargo adaptor, Vac17, regulate where the vacuole is deposited and the timing of vacuole movement. In this paper, we show that Mmr1 functions as a mitochondria-specific cargo adaptor early in the cell cycle and that Mmr1 binds Myo2 at the site that binds Vac17. We demonstrate that Vac17 and Mmr1 compete for binding at this site. Unexpectedly, this competition regulates the volume of vacuoles and mitochondria inherited by the daughter cell. Furthermore, eight of the nine known Myo2 cargo adaptors overlap at one of two sites. Vac17 and Mmr1 overlap at one site, whereas Ypt11 and Kar9 bind subsets of residues that also bind Ypt31/Ypt32, Sec4, and Inp2. These observations predict that competition for access to Myo2 may be a common mechanism to coordinate the inheritance of diverse cargoes.

Post-translational modifications regulate assembly of early spindle orientation complex in yeast

Mitosis begins with the tethering of chromosomes to the mitotic spindle and their orientation perpendicular to the axis of cell division. In budding yeast, mitotic spindle orientation and the subsequent chromosome segregation are two independent processes. Early spindle orientation is driven by the actin-bound myosin Myo2p, which interacts with the adapter Kar9p. The latter also binds to microtubule-associated Bim1p, thereby connecting both types of cytoskeleton. This study focuses on the interaction between Kar9p and Bim1p and its regulation. We solved the crystal structure of the previously reported Kar9p-binding motif of Bim1p and identified a second, novel Kar9p interaction domain. We further show that two independent post-translational modification events regulate their interaction. Whereas Kar9p sumoylation is required for efficient complex formation with Bim1p, Aurora B/Ipl1p-dependent phosphorylation of Bim1p down-regulates their interaction. The observed effects of these modifications allow us to propose a novel regulatory framework for the assembly and disassembly of the early spindle orientation complex.

Spindle pole bodies exploit the mitotic exit network in metaphase to drive their age-dependent segregation

Like many asymmetrically dividing cells, budding yeast segregates mitotic spindle poles nonrandomly between mother and daughter cells. During metaphase, the spindle positioning protein Kar9 accumulates asymmetrically, localizing specifically to astral microtubules emanating from the old spindle pole body (SPB) and driving its segregation to the bud. Here, we show that the SPB component Nud1/centriolin acts through the mitotic exit network (MEN) to specify asymmetric SPB inheritance. In the absence of MEN signaling, Kar9 asymmetry is unstable and its preference for the old SPB is disrupted. Consistent with this, phosphorylation of Kar9 by the MEN kinases Dbf2 and Dbf20 is not required to break Kar9 symmetry but is instead required to maintain stable association of Kar9 with the old SPB throughout metaphase. We propose that MEN signaling links Kar9 regulation to SPB identity through biasing and stabilizing the age-insensitive, cyclin-B-dependent mechanism of symmetry breaking.

Indirect immunofluorescence for monitoring spindle assembly and disassembly in yeast

In yeast like all eukaryotes, microtubules are a crucial element of the mitotic spindle that separates the genetic material during cell division. The assembly status and position of the mitotic spindle, as well as cytoplasmic microtubules, can be monitored easily using indirect immunofluorescence with antibodies against tubulin. A detailed protocol is described for Saccharomyces cerevisiae that involves the fixation of actively growing cells, removal of the cell wall by enzymatic digestion, post-fixation, and the application of tubulin antibodies. The use of secondary antibodies conjugated to a fluorescent moiety permit visualization of the mitotic spindle by fluorescence microscopy. Methods for the reduction of background and pre-absorption of antibodies are discussed.

Monitoring spindle orientation: Spindle position checkpoint in charge

Every cell division in budding yeast is inherently asymmetric and counts on the correct positioning of the mitotic spindle along the mother-daughter polarity axis for faithful chromosome segregation. A surveillance mechanism named the spindle position checkpoint (SPOC), monitors the orientation of the mitotic spindle and prevents cells from exiting mitosis when the spindle fails to align along the mother-daughter axis. SPOC is essential for maintenance of ploidy in budding yeast and similar mechanisms might exist in higher eukaryotes to ensure faithful asymmetric cell division. Here, we review the current model of SPOC activation and highlight the importance of protein localization and phosphorylation for SPOC function.

Actin-mediated delivery of astral microtubules instructs Kar9p asymmetric loading to the bud-ward spindle pole

We show that Kar9p polarity is instructed by a feedback loop that requires astral microtubules, actin cables, and Myo2p-based transport to enforce Kar9p loading to the bud-ward pole. This novel mechanism also provides the basis for a model unifying Kar9p polarity and the stereotyped pattern of spindle pole inheritance known to occur in yeast.

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Kar9p, one player in spindle alignment, guides the bud-ward spindle pole by linking astral microtubule plus ends to Myo2p-based transport along actin cables generated by the formins Bni1p and Bnr1p and the polarity determinant Bud6p. Initially, Kar9p labels both poles but progressively singles out the bud-ward pole. Here, we show that this polarization requires cell polarity determinants, actin cables, and microtubules. Indeed, in a bud6Δ bni1Δ mutant or upon direct depolymerization of actin cables Kar9p symmetry increased. Furthermore, symmetry was selectively induced by myo2 alleles, preventing Kar9p binding to the Myo2p cargo domain. Kar9p polarity was rebuilt after transient disruption of microtubules, dependent on cell polarity and actin cables. Symmetry breaking also occurred after transient depolymerization of actin cables, with Kar9p increasing at the spindle pole engaging in repeated cycles of Kar9p-mediated transport. Kar9p returning to the spindle pole on shrinking astral microtubules may contribute toward this bias. Thus, Myo2p transport along actin cables may support a feedback loop by which delivery of astral microtubule plus ends sustains Kar9p polarized recruitment to the bud-ward spindle pole. Our findings also explain the link between Kar9p polarity and the choice setting aside the old spindle pole for daughter-bound fate.

Asymmetric microtubule arrays organize the endoplasmic reticulum during polarity establishment in the brown alga Silvetia compressa

Polarity is a fundamental characteristic of most cell types, and is crucial to early development of the brown alga Silvetia compressa. In eukaryotes the cytoskeleton plays an important role in generating cellular asymmetries. While it is known that F-actin is required for polarization and growth in most tip-growing cells, the roles of microtubules are less clear. We examined the distribution and function of microtubules in S. compressa zygotes as they polarized and initiated tip growth. Microtubules formed asymmetric arrays oriented toward the rhizoid hemisphere early in the polarization process. These arrays were spatially coupled with polar adhesive deposition, a marker of the rhizoid pole. Reorientation of the light vector during polarization led to sequential redistribution of polar axis components, with the microtubules and the polar axis reorienting nearly simultaneously, followed by cell wall loosening and then deposition of new polar adhesive. These findings suggested that microtubules may organize and target endomembrane arrays. We therefore examined the distribution of the endoplasmic reticulum during polarization and found it colocalized with microtubules and became targeted toward the rhizoid pole as microtubule asymmetry was generated. Endoplasmic reticulum association with microtubules remained fully intact following pharmacological disruption of F-actin, whereas microtubule disruption led to aggregation of the endoplasmic reticulum around the nucleus. We propose that brown algae utilize microtubules for organization of the endoplasmic reticulum and migration of exocytotic components to the rhizoid cortex, and present a model for polarity establishment to account for these new findings.

Coordinating mitosis with cell polarity: Molecular motors at the cell cortex

In many cell divisions, the position of the spindle apparatus is coordinated with polarity signals at the cell cortex so that copies of the genome are delivered to regions of the cell that are designated for differential inheritance by the two progeny. To coordinate spindle position with cell polarity, the spindle interfaces with elements on the cortex, where molecular motors often produce the forces that power displacement. Here we describe the molecular pathways by which cortical motors translocate the spindle in budding yeast, where the mechanisms are understood relatively well, and we compare these pathways to spindle positioning processes in metazoan systems, where the molecular details are less well understood.

Identification of end-binding 1 (EB1) interacting proteins in Giardia lamblia

Yeast two-hybrid assays using the end-binding 1 (EB1) protein of Giardia lamblia as bait led to the isolation of four independent clones encoding gamma-giardin, a neurogenic Notch-like protein, and two hypothetical proteins. Interactions between EB1 and the isolated proteins were confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation of in vitro-synthesized candidate proteins and EB1. Localization of these isolated proteins in G. lamblia was examined by immunofluorescence assays, indicating that they were predominantly present in cytoskeletal structures of G. lamblia. These results suggest that EB1 protein functions via interaction with the cytoskeletal components of G. lamblia.

CLIP-170 tracks growing microtubule ends by dynamically recognizing composite EB1/tubulin-binding sites

The microtubule cytoskeleton is crucial for the internal organization of eukaryotic cells. Several microtubule-associated proteins link microtubules to subcellular structures. A subclass of these proteins, the plus end–binding proteins (+TIPs), selectively binds to the growing plus ends of microtubules. Here, we reconstitute a vertebrate plus end tracking system composed of the most prominent +TIPs, end-binding protein 1 (EB1) and CLIP-170, in vitro and dissect their end-tracking mechanism. We find that EB1 autonomously recognizes specific binding sites present at growing microtubule ends. In contrast, CLIP-170 does not end-track by itself but requires EB1. CLIP-170 recognizes and turns over rapidly on composite binding sites constituted by end-accumulated EB1 and tyrosinated α-tubulin. In contrast to its fission yeast orthologue Tip1, dynamic end tracking of CLIP-170 does not require the activity of a molecular motor. Our results demonstrate evolutionary diversity of the plus end recognition mechanism of CLIP-170 family members, whereas the autonomous end-tracking mechanism of EB family members is conserved.

Yeast mating: a model system for studying cell and nuclear fusion

Haploid yeast cells mate to form a zygote, whose progeny are diploid cells. A fundamentally sexual event, related to fertilization, yeast mating nevertheless exhibits cytological properties that appear similar to somatic cell fusion. A large collection of mutations that lead to defects in various stages of mating, including cell fusion, has allowed a detailed dissection of the overall pathway. Recent advances in imaging methods, together with powerful methods of genetic analysis, make yeast mating a superb platform for investigation of cell fusion. An understanding of yeast cell fusion will provide insight into fundamental mechanisms of cell signaling, cell polarization, and membrane fusion.

Dissecting the involvement of formins in Bud6p-mediated cortical capture of microtubules in S. cerevisiae

In S. cerevisiae, spindle orientation is linked to the inheritance of the `old' spindle pole by the bud. A player in this asymmetric commitment, Bud6p, promotes cortical capture of astral microtubules. Additionally, Bud6p stimulates actin cable formation though the formin Bni1p. A relationship with the second formin, Bnr1p, is unclear. Another player is Kar9p, a protein that guides microtubules along actin cables organised by formins. Here, we ask whether formins mediate Bud6p-dependent microtubule capture beyond any links to Kar9p and actin. We found that both formins control Bud6p localisation. bni1 mutations advanced recruitment of Bud6p at the bud neck, ahead of spindle assembly, whereas bnr1Δ reduced Bud6p association with the bud neck. Accordingly, bni1 or bnr1 mutations redirected microtubule capture to or away from the bud neck, respectively. Furthermore, a Bni1p truncation that can form actin cables independently of Bud6p could not bypass a bud6Δ for microtubule capture. Conversely, Bud61-565p, a truncation insufficient for correct actin organisation via formins, supported microtubule capture. Finally, Bud6p or Bud61-565p associated with microtubules in vitro. Thus, surprisingly, Bud6p may promote microtubule capture independently of its links to actin organisation, whereas formins would contribute to the program of Bud6p-dependent microtubule-cortex interactions by controlling Bud6p localisation.

Regulation of mitotic spindle asymmetry by SUMO and the spindle-assembly checkpoint in yeast

During mitosis, the kinetochore microtubules capture and segregate chromosomes, and the astral microtubules position the spindle within the cell. Although the spindle is symmetric, proper positioning of the spindle in asymmetrically dividing cells generally correlates with the formation of morphologically and structurally distinct asters [1]. In budding yeast, the spindle-orientation proteins Kar9 and dynein decorate only one aster of the metaphase spindle and direct it toward the bud [2, 3]. The mechanisms controlling the distribution of Kar9 and dynein remain unclear. Here, we show that SUMO regulates astral-microtubule function in at least two ways. First, Kar9 was sumoylated in vivo. Sumoylation and Cdk1-dependent phosphorylation of Kar9 independently promoted Kar9 asymmetry on the spindle. Second, proper regulation of kinetochore function by SUMO was also required for Kar9 asymmetry. Indeed, activation of the spindle-assembly checkpoint (SAC) due to SUMO and kinetochore defects promoted symmetric redistribution of Kar9 in a Mad2-dependent manner. The control of Kar9 distribution by the SAC was independent of Kar9 sumoylation and phosphorylation. Together, our data reveal that three independent mechanisms contribute to Kar9 asymmetry: Cdk1-dependent phosphorylation, sumoylation, and SAC signaling. Hence, the two seemingly independent spindle domains, kinetochores and astral microtubules, function in a tightly coordinated fashion.

The cyclin-dependent kinase Cdk1 directly regulates vacuole inheritance

In budding yeast, vacuole inheritance is tightly coordinated with the cell cycle. The movement of vacuoles and several other organelles is actin-based and is mediated by interaction between the yeast myosin V motor Myo2 and organelle-specific adaptors. Myo2 binds to vacuoles via the adaptor protein Vac17, which binds to the vacuole membrane protein Vac8. Here we show that the yeast cyclin-dependent kinase Cdk1 phosphorylates Vac17 and that phosphorylation of Vac17 parallels cell cycle-dependent movement of the vacuole. Substitution of the Cdk1 sites in Vac17 decreases its interaction with Myo2 and causes a partial defect in vacuole inheritance. This defect is enhanced in the presence of Myo2 with mutated phosphorylation sites. Thus, Cdk1 appears to control the timing of vacuole movement. The presence of multiple predicted Cdk1 sites in other organelle-specific myosin V adaptors suggests that the inheritance of other cytoplasmic organelles may be regulated by a similar mechanism.

The spindle positioning protein Kar9p interacts with the sumoylation machinery in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Accurate positioning of the mitotic spindle is important for the genetic material to be distributed evenly in dividing cells, but little is known about the mechanisms that regulate this process. Here we report that two microtubule-associated proteins important for spindle positioning interact with several proteins in the sumoylation pathway. By two-hybrid analysis, Kar9p and Bim1p interact with the yeast SUMO Smt3p, the E2 enzyme Ubc9p, an E3 Nfi1p, as well as Wss1p, a weak suppressor of a temperature-sensitive smt3 allele. The physical interaction between Kar9p and Ubc9p was confirmed by in vitro binding assays. A single-amino-acid substitution in Kar9p, L304P disrupted its two-hybrid interaction with proteins in the sumoylation pathway, but retained its interactions with the spindle positioning proteins Bim1p, Stu2p, Bik1p, and Myo2p. The kar9-L304P mutant showed defects in positioning the mitotic spindle, with the spindle located more distally than normal. Whereas wild-type Kar9p-3GFP normally localizes to only the bud-directed spindle pole body (SPB), Kar9p-L304P-3GFP was mislocalized to both SPBs. Using a reconstitution assay, Kar9p was sumoylated in vitro. We propose a model in which sumoylation regulates spindle positioning by restricting Kar9p to one SPB. These findings raise the possibility that sumoylation could regulate other microtubule-dependent processes.