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Interface-acting nucleotide controls polymerization dynamics at microtubule plus- and minus-ends.

Lauren A McCormick1, Joseph M Cleary2, William O Hancock2

  • 1Department of Biophysics and Biochemistry, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, United States.

Elife
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Summary

The nucleotide at the tubulin interface, not within the tubulin itself, dictates microtubule interaction strength. This finding resolves a long-standing debate on how nucleotide state influences microtubule dynamics.

Keywords:
biochemistrycell biologychemical biologykinetic simulationsmicrotubule dynamicsmixed nucleotidenone

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Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Structural Biology

Background:

  • Microtubule dynamics are crucial for cellular processes.
  • The role of nucleotide-bound tubulin (GTP- or GDP-tubulin) in regulating microtubule interaction strength is debated.
  • Two models exist: 'self-acting' (cis) and 'interface-acting' (trans).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To differentiate between the 'self-acting' and 'interface-acting' models of nucleotide influence on tubulin interactions.
  • To elucidate the precise mechanism by which nucleotide state affects microtubule dynamics.

Main Methods:

  • Mixed nucleotide simulations of microtubule elongation.
  • Experimental measurement of microtubule plus- and minus-end elongation rates using mixed nucleotides.
  • Comparison of simulation predictions with experimental data.

Main Results:

  • Simulations predicted distinct growth rate changes for 'self-acting' vs. 'interface-acting' models under mixed nucleotide conditions.
  • Experimental results showed a disproportionate decrease in plus-end growth rates with increasing GDP-tubulin, supporting the 'interface-acting' model.
  • GDP-tubulin was found to 'poison' plus-ends but not minus-ends, with nucleotide exchange mitigating this effect at plus-ends.

Conclusions:

  • The interfacial nucleotide, not the self-bound nucleotide, determines tubulin:tubulin interaction strength.
  • This study resolves the debate regarding the influence of nucleotide state on microtubule dynamics.
  • Findings highlight the importance of the nucleotide at the dimer interface for microtubule stability and growth.