Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 12, 2025

Aip1p Dynamics Are Altered by the R256H Mutation in Actin
Published on: July 30, 2014
Cytoplasmic localization of the mRNA encoding actin regulator, Serendipity-α, promotes adherens junction assembly and
Tejas Mahadevan1, Lauren Renee Figard2, Hasan Seede2
1Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801.
Abstract:
The subcellular localization of mRNAs is conserved from prokaryotes to humans. In Drosophila embryos ~70% of mRNAs localize to specific sites in the cytoplasm, but the functional significance of this mRNA localization is largely unknown. During the process of embryo cellularization, mRNA encoding Serendipity-α (Sry-α), an actin filament (F-actin) binding protein, moves apically, concentrating near centrosomes. Transport is mediated by the Egl/BicD/Dynein complex and requires two stem loops in the 3'UTR of the mRNA, which serve as localization signals. mRNA localization is dispensable for Sry-α function at cleavage furrows in early cellularization but is necessary for repositioning nuclei in late cellularization. Sry-α protein promotes assembly of cortical F-actin and apical spot adherens junctions (AJs) in late cellularization, and these AJs contribute to nuclear repositioning. We suggest that mRNA localization restricts cytoskeletal functions in late cellularization to regulate nuclear repositioning in preparation for the tissue morphogenesis events that immediately follow.
Related Concept Videos
Regulated mRNA Transport
Actin Polymerization and Cell Motility
Actin cytoskeleton dynamics can produce pushing, pulling, and resistance forces that help the cell to migrate....
Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions
Some...
Regulation of Nuclear Protein Sorting
Cytoskeletal Accessory Proteins
Actin Polymerization
The nucleation phase involves forming a stable nucleus consisting of three actin monomers to form a new actin filament. Actin-binding proteins such as formins and Arp2/3 complex help filament growth post-nucleation. The Formins form straight...

