Understanding the 9-Fold Symmetry of Centrioles
Author Information
Author(s): Kitagawa Daiju, Vakonakis Ioannis, Olieric Natacha, Hilbert Manuel, Keller Debora, Olieric Vincent, Bortfeld Miriam, Erat Michèle C., Flückiger Isabelle, Gönczy Pierre, Steinmetz Michel O.
Primary Institution: Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL)
Hypothesis
How does the protein SAS-6 contribute to the formation of centrioles and their 9-fold symmetry?
Conclusion
The study reveals that the self-assembly of SAS-6 proteins is crucial for the formation of centrioles with a 9-fold symmetry.
Supporting Evidence
- SAS-6 forms rod-shaped homodimers that are essential for centriole formation.
- Nine homodimers of the related protein Bld12p self-assemble into a ring structure.
- Recombinant Bld12p can form structures similar to the central hub of the cartwheel.
Takeaway
This study shows that a protein called SAS-6 helps build centrioles, which are important structures in cells, by forming a special shape that has nine parts.
Methodology
The researchers used biophysical, biochemical, structural, and cell biological approaches to study the SAS-6 protein.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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