A single-component optogenetic toolkit for reversible visualization and programmable control of microtubule dynamics

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Biophysics
• Molecular and Structural Biology

Background:

• Microtubules are dynamic cytoskeletal polymers crucial for intracellular transport, organelle positioning, and signaling organization.
• Microtubule architecture and function are regulated by microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs), post-translational modifications (PTMs), and molecular motors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a genetically encoded, single-component optogenetic platform for spatiotemporal control of microtubule organization and dynamics in living systems.
• To enable precise interrogation of microtubule-based cellular processes.

Main Methods:

• Harnessing light-induced oligomerization to regulate microtubule association.
• Developing tools for reversible microtubule labeling, plus-end tracking, localized tubulin PTM control, optically regulated kinesin-driven cargo transport, and inducible microtubule severing.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated reversible microtubule labeling and plus-end tracking.
• Showcased localized control of tubulin PTMs and optically regulated kinesin-driven transport.
• Revealed how local microtubule integrity influences lysosomal trafficking and ER-associated signaling dynamics.

Conclusions:

• The developed modular optogenetic toolkit provides a versatile platform for dissecting dynamic cytoskeletal architectures.
• This system bridges molecular design with cytoskeletal function, offering new ways to study intracellular organization, transport, and signaling.