Year: 2010
Type: dissertation
Abstract: During cell division, a macromolecular machine is assembled to segregate the two sets of chromosomes carrying the genetic material into the two daughter cells. This machine, the mitotic spindle, is a bipolar array composed of microtubules and proteins that control their dynamics and organization. Kinesins are molecular motors that can apply forces to the microtubules and arrange them in space to assemble a bipolar spindle.Here we characterized the human kinesin Hklp2 as an important player in bipolar spindle assembly and maintenance.Hklp2 is a kinesin that localizes to the spindle microtubules and the chromosomes in mitosis. Its localization to the microtubules depends on TPX2, a crucial factor in microtubule nucleation. Hklp2 localization to the chromosomes necessitates the presence of cell proliferation marker Ki67 whose function is currently unknown. Hklp2 helps the separation of the centrosomes during the establishment of spindle bipolarity and plays a role in the subsequent maintenance of bipolarity during metaphase. This role is probably achieved through a cross-linking of the microtubules. Interestingly, the populations of the kinesin present on the microtubules and the chromosomes have different functions.
Author: David Vanneste
Language: English
Subfield: Cell Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W215090336