The CAMSAP3-ACF7 Complex Couples Noncentrosomal Microtubules with Actin Filaments to Coordinate Their Dynamics

Publication date: Available online 29 September 2016
Source:Developmental Cell
Author(s): Wenxiu Ning, Yanan Yu, Honglin Xu, Xiaofei Liu, Daiwei Wang, Jing Wang, Yingchun Wang, Wenxiang Meng
For adaptation to complex cellular functions, dynamic cytoskeletal networks are required. There are two major components of the cytoskeleton, microtubules and actin filaments, which form an intricate network maintaining an exquisite cooperation to build the physical basis for their cellular function. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism underlying their synergism. Here, we show that in Caco2 epithelial cells, noncentrosomal microtubules crosstalk with F-actin through their minus ends and contribute to the regulation of focal adhesion size and cell migration. We demonstrate that ACF7, a member of the spectraplakin family of cytoskeletal crosslinking proteins, interacts with Nezha (also called CAMSAP3) at the minus ends of noncentrosomal microtubules and anchors them to actin filaments. Those noncentrosomal microtubules cooperate with actin filaments through retrograde flow to keep their length and orientation perpendicular to the cell edge as well as regulate focal adhesion size and cell migration.

Graphical abstract

Teaser

Coordination of the microtubule and actin cytoskeletons is required for their cellular function. Ning, Yu, et al. uncover crosstalk between noncentrosomal microtubules and F-actin in epithelial cells. Cytoskeleton crosslinking protein ACF7 and noncentrosomal microtubule minus-end-tracking protein CAMSAP3 anchor microtubules to actin filaments to regulate focal adhesion size and cell migration.


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