Cross-linkers at growing microtubule ends generate forces that drive actin transport

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2112799119
• Publication Date: 2022-03-10T19:14:57Z
• Authors: Celine Alkemade; Harmen Wierenga; Vladimir A. Volkov; Magdalena Preciad...; Anna Akhmanova; Pieter Rein ten W...; Marileen Dogterom; Gijsje H. Koenderink
• Keywords: Molecular motor

SignificanceComplex cellular processes such as cell migration require coordinated remodeling of both the actin and microtubule cytoskeleton. The two networks for instance exert forces on each other via active motor proteins. Here we show that, surprisingly, coupling passive cross-linkers can also result in force generation. We specifically study transport filaments by growing ends. cell-free reconstitution experiments, computer simulations, theoretical modeling that this is driven affinity cross-linker chemically distinct tip region. Our work predicts microtubules could potentially rapidly relocate newly nucleated to leading edge thus boost migration.