Work

Cep57, a multidomain protein with unique microtubule and centrosomal localization domains

Year: 2008

Type: article

Abstract: The present study demonstrates different functional domains of a recently described centrosomal protein, Cep57 (centrosomal protein 57). Endogenous Cep57 protein and ectopic expression of full-length protein or the N-terminal coiled-coil domain localize to the centrosome internal to gamma-tubulin, suggesting that it is either on both centrioles or on a centromatrix component. The N-terminus can also multimerize with the N-terminus of other Cep57 molecules. The C-terminus contains a second coiled-coil domain that directly binds to MTs (microtubules). This domain both nucleates and bundles MTs in vitro. This activity was also seen in vivo, as overexpression of full-length Cep57 or the C-terminus generates nocodazole-resistant MT cables in cells. Based on the present findings, we propose that Cep57 serves as a link with its N-terminus anchored to the centriole or centromatrix and its C-terminus to MTs.

Source: Biochemical Journal

DOI: 10.1042/bj20071501

Authors: Ko Momotani, Alexander S. Khromov, Tsuyoshi Miyake, P. Todd Stukenberg, Avril V. Somlyo

Institution: University of Virginia

Language: English

Topic: Microtubule and mitosis dynamics

Subfield: Cell Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Awards: Regulation of SMC Development and Contractile Function, Structural Biology of Cardiovascular Signaling