Different spindle checkpoint proteins monitor microtubule attachment and tension at kinetochores in Drosophila cells

A force-sensitive mutation reveals a non-canonical role for dynein in anaphase progression

The diverse roles of the dynein motor in shaping microtubule networks and cargo transport complicate in vivo analysis of its functions significantly. To address this issue, we have generated a series of missense mutations in Drosophila Dynein heavy chain. We show that mutations associated with human neurological disease cause a range of defects, including impaired cargo trafficking in neurons. We also describe a novel microtubule-binding domain mutation that specifically blocks the metaphase-anaphase transition during mitosis in the embryo. This effect is independent from dynein's canonical role in silencing the spindle assembly checkpoint. Optical trapping of purified dynein complexes reveals that this mutation only compromises motor performance under load, a finding rationalized by the results of all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. We propose that dynein has a novel function in anaphase progression that depends on it operating in a specific load regime. More broadly, our work illustrates how in vivo functions of motors can be dissected by manipulating their mechanical properties.

Skp2-Cyclin A Interaction Is Necessary for Mitotic Entry and Maintenance of Diploidy

Skp2, the substrate recognition component of the SCFSkp2 ubiquitin ligase, has been implicated in the targeted destruction of a number of key cell cycle regulators and the promotion of S-phase. One of its critical targets is the Cyclin dependent kinase (Cdk) inhibitor p27, and indeed the overexpression of Skp2 in a number of cancers is directly correlated with the premature degradation of p27. Skp2 was first identified as a protein that interacts with Cyclin A in transformed cells, but its role in this complex has remained unclear. In this paper, we demonstrate that Skp2 interacts with Cyclin A in Drosophila and is required to maintain Cyclin A levels and permit mitotic entry. Failure of mitotic entry in Skp2 mutant cells results in polyploidy. If these cells enter mitosis again they are unable to properly segregate their chromosomes, leading to checkpoint dependent cell cycle arrest or apoptosis. Thus, Skp2 is required for mitosis and for maintaining diploidy and genome stability.

A force-sensitive mutation reveals a spindle assembly checkpoint-independent role for dynein in anaphase progression

The cytoplasmic dynein-1 (dynein) motor organizes cells by shaping microtubule networks and moving a large variety of cargoes along them. However, dynein's diverse roles complicate in vivo studies of its functions significantly. To address this issue, we have used gene editing to generate a series of missense mutations in Drosophila Dynein heavy chain (Dhc). We find that mutations associated with human neurological disease cause a range of defects in larval and adult flies, including impaired cargo trafficking in neurons. We also describe a novel mutation in the microtubule-binding domain (MTBD) of Dhc that, remarkably, causes metaphase arrest of mitotic spindles in the embryo but does not impair other dynein-dependent processes. We demonstrate that the mitotic arrest is independent of dynein's well-established roles in silencing the spindle assembly checkpoint. In vitro reconstitution and optical trapping assays reveal that the mutation only impairs the performance of dynein under load. In silico all-atom molecular dynamics simulations show that this effect correlates with increased flexibility of the MTBD, as well as an altered orientation of the stalk domain, with respect to the microtubule. Collectively, our data point to a novel role of dynein in anaphase progression that depends on the motor operating in a specific load regime. More broadly, our work illustrates how cytoskeletal transport processes can be dissected in vivo by manipulating mechanical properties of motors.

Female meiosis II and pronuclear fusion require the microtubule transport factor Bicaudal D

Bicaudal D (BicD) is a dynein adaptor that transports different cargoes along microtubules. Reducing the activity of BicD specifically in freshly laid Drosophila eggs by acute protein degradation revealed that BicD is needed to produce normal female meiosis II products, to prevent female meiotic products from re-entering the cell cycle, and for pronuclear fusion. Given that BicD is required to localize the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) components Mad2 and BubR1 to the female meiotic products, it appears that BicD functions to localize these components to control metaphase arrest of polar bodies. BicD interacts with Clathrin heavy chain (Chc), and both proteins localize to centrosomes, mitotic spindles and the tandem spindles during female meiosis II. Furthermore, BicD is required to localize clathrin and the microtubule-stabilizing factors transforming acidic coiled-coil protein (D-TACC/Tacc) and Mini spindles (Msps) correctly to the meiosis II spindles, suggesting that failure to localize these proteins may perturb SAC function. Furthermore, immediately after the establishment of the female pronucleus, D-TACC and Caenorhabditis elegans BicD, tacc and Chc are also needed for pronuclear fusion, suggesting that the underlying mechanism might be more widely used across species.

Comparative transcriptional analysis uncovers molecular processes in early and mature somatic cyst cells of Drosophila testes

The tight interaction between somatic and germline cells is conserved in animal spermatogenesis. The testes of Drosophila melanogaster are the model of choice to identify processes responsible for mature gamete production. However, processes of differentiation and soma-germline interactions occurring in somatic cyst cells are currently understudied. Here we focused on the comparison of transcriptome expression patterns of early and mature somatic cyst cells to find out the developmental changes taking place in them. We employed a FACS-based approach for the isolation of early and mature somatic cyst cells from fly testes, subsequent preparation of RNA-Seq libraries, and analysis of gene differential expression in the sorted cells. We found increased expression of genes involved in cell cycle-related processes in early cyst cells, which is necessary for the proliferation and self-renewal of a crucial population of early cyst cells, cyst stem cells. Genes proposedly required for lamellipodium-like projection organization for proper cyst formation were also detected among the upregulated ones in early cyst cells. Gene Ontology and interactome analyses of upregulated genes in mature cyst cells revealed a striking over-representation of gene categories responsible for metabolic and catabolic cellular processes, as well as genes supporting the energetic state of the cells provided by oxidative phosphorylation that is carried out in mitochondria. Our comparative analyses of differentially expressed genes revealed major peculiarities in early and mature cyst cells and provide novel insight into their regulation, which is important for male fertility.

VTT-006, an anti-mitotic compound, binds to the Ndc80 complex and suppresses cancer cell growth in vitro

Hec1 (Highly expressed in cancer 1) resides in the outer kinetochore where it works to facilitate proper kinetochore-microtubule interactions during mitosis. Hec1 is overexpressed in various cancers and its expression shows correlation with high tumour grade and poor patient prognosis. Chemical perturbation of Hec1 is anticipated to impair kinetochore-microtubule binding, activate the spindle assembly checkpoint (spindle checkpoint) and thereby suppress cell proliferation. In this study, we performed high-throughput screen to identify novel small molecules that target the Hec1 calponin homology domain (CHD), which is needed for normal microtubule attachments. 4 million compounds were first virtually fitted against the CHD, and the best hit molecules were evaluated in vitro. These approaches led to the identification of VTT-006, a 1,2-disubstituted-tetrahydro-beta-carboline derivative, which showed binding to recombinant Ndc80 complex and modulated Hec1 association with microtubules in vitro. VTT-006 treatment resulted in chromosome congression defects, reduced chromosome oscillations and induced loss of inter-kinetochore tension. Cells remained arrested in mitosis with an active spindle checkpoint for several hours before undergoing cell death. VTT-006 suppressed the growth of several cancer cell lines and enhanced the sensitivity of HeLa cells to Taxol. Our findings propose that VTT-006 is a potential anti-mitotic compound that disrupts M phase, impairs kinetochore-microtubule interactions, and activates the spindle checkpoint.

Loss of telomere silencing is accompanied by dysfunction of Polo kinase and centrosomes during Drosophila oogenesis and early development

Telomeres are nucleoprotein complexes that protect the ends of eukaryotic linear chromosomes from degradation and fusions. Telomere dysfunction leads to cell growth arrest, oncogenesis, and premature aging. Telomeric RNAs have been found in all studied species; however, their functions and biogenesis are not clearly understood. We studied the mechanisms of development disorders observed upon overexpression of telomeric repeats in Drosophila. In somatic cells, overexpression of telomeric retrotransposon HeT-A is cytotoxic and leads to the accumulation of HeT-A Gag near centrosomes. We found that RNA and RNA-binding protein Gag encoded by the telomeric retrotransposon HeT-A interact with Polo and Cdk1 mitotic kinases, which are conserved regulators of centrosome biogenesis and cell cycle. The depletion of proteins Spindle E, Ccr4 or Ars2 resulting in HeT-A overexpression in the germline was accompanied by mislocalization of Polo as well as its abnormal stabilization during oogenesis and severe deregulation of centrosome biogenesis leading to maternal-effect embryonic lethality. These data suggest a mechanistic link between telomeric HeT-A ribonucleoproteins and cell cycle regulators that ensures the cell response to telomere dysfunction.

Twist1 induces chromosomal instability (CIN) in colorectal cancer cells

Twist1 is a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, essential during early development in mammals. While Twist1 induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), here we show that Twist1 overexpression enhances nuclear and mitotic aberrations. This is accompanied by an increase in whole chromosomal copy number gains and losses, underscoring the role of Twist1 in inducing chromosomal instability (CIN) in colorectal cancer cells. Array comparative genomic hybridization (array CGH) analysis further shows sub-chromosomal deletions, consistent with an increased frequency of DNA double strand breaks (DSBs). Remarkably, Twist1 overexpression downmodulates key cell cycle checkpoint factors-Bub1, BubR1, Mad1 and Mad2-that regulate CIN. Mathematical simulations using the RACIPE tool show a negative correlation of Twist1 with E-cadherin and BubR1. Data analyses of gene expression profiles of patient samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) reveal a positive correlation between Twist1 and mesenchymal genes across cancers, whereas the correlation of TWIST1 with CIN and DSB genes is cancer subtype-specific. Taken together, these studies highlight the mechanistic involvement of Twist1 in the deregulation of factors that maintain genome stability during EMT in colorectal cancer cells. Twist1 overexpression enhances genome instability in the context of EMT that further contributes to cellular heterogeneity. In addition, these studies imply that Twist1 downmodulates nuclear lamins that further alter spatiotemporal organization of the cancer genome and epigenome. Notwithstanding their genetic background, colorectal cancer cells nevertheless maintain their overall ploidy, while the downstream effects of Twist1 enhance CIN and DNA damage enriching for sub-populations of aggressive cancer cells.

The Genetic Basis of Natural Variation in Drosophila melanogaster Immune Defense against Enterococcus faecalis

Dissecting the genetic basis of natural variation in disease response in hosts provides insights into the coevolutionary dynamics of host-pathogen interactions. Here, a genome-wide association study of Drosophila melanogaster survival after infection with the Gram-positive entomopathogenic bacterium Enterococcus faecalis is reported. There was considerable variation in defense against E. faecalis infection among inbred lines of the Drosophila Genetics Reference Panel. We identified single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with six genes with a significant (p < 10^-08, corresponding to a false discovery rate of 2.4%) association with survival, none of which were canonical immune genes. To validate the role of these genes in immune defense, their expression was knocked-down using RNAi and survival of infected hosts was followed, which confirmed a role for the genes krishah and S6k in immune defense. We further identified a putative role for the Bomanin gene BomBc1 (also known as IM23), in E. faecalis infection response. This study adds to the growing set of association studies for infection in Drosophila melanogaster and suggests that the genetic causes of variation in immune defense differ for different pathogens.

Bub1 Facilitates Virus Entry through Endocytosis in a Model of Drosophila Pathogenesis

In this work, we identify for the first time that the nuclear protein Bub1 (budding uninhibited by benzimidazoles 1), a highly conserved subunit of the kinetochore complex regulating chromosome congression, has a novel and important function on the cell membrane to facilitate the virus to enter host cells. Bub1 deficiency empowers the host to have the ability to resist viral infection in Drosophila and a human cell line. Bub1 is involved in the virus entry step through regulating endocytosis. The DCV capsid protein can recruit Bub1, and DCV infection can strengthen the interaction between Bub1 and a clathrin-dependent endocytosis component. The restricted entry of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and Listeria monocytogenes in bub1-deficient flies and cell lines was also observed. Therefore, our data implicate a previously unknown function of Bub1 that can be hijacked by pathogens to facilitate their entry, and Bub1 may serve as a potential antiviral therapy target for limiting viral entry.

In order to establish productive infection and dissemination, viruses usually evolve a number of strategies to hijack and/or subvert the host defense systems. However, host factors utilized by the virus to facilitate infection remain poorly characterized. In this work, we found that Drosophila melanogaster deficient in budding uninhibited by benzimidazoles 1 (bub1), a highly conserved subunit of the kinetochore complex regulating chromosome congression (1), became resistant to Drosophila C virus (DCV) infection, evidenced in increased survival rates and reduced viral loads, compared to the wild-type control. Mechanistic analysis further showed that Bub1 also functioned in the cytoplasm and was essentially involved in clathrin-dependent endocytosis of DCV and other pathogens, thus limiting pathogen entry. DCV infection potentially had strengthened the interaction between Bub1 and the clathrin adaptor on the cell membrane. Furthermore, the conserved function of Bub1 was also verified in a mammalian cell line. Thus, our data demonstrated a previously unknown function of Bub1 that could be hijacked by pathogens to facilitate their infection and spread.

IMPORTANCE In this work, we identify for the first time that the nuclear protein Bub1 (budding uninhibited by benzimidazoles 1), a highly conserved subunit of the kinetochore complex regulating chromosome congression, has a novel and important function on the cell membrane to facilitate the virus to enter host cells. Bub1 deficiency empowers the host to have the ability to resist viral infection in Drosophila and a human cell line. Bub1 is involved in the virus entry step through regulating endocytosis. The DCV capsid protein can recruit Bub1, and DCV infection can strengthen the interaction between Bub1 and a clathrin-dependent endocytosis component. The restricted entry of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and Listeria monocytogenes in bub1-deficient flies and cell lines was also observed. Therefore, our data implicate a previously unknown function of Bub1 that can be hijacked by pathogens to facilitate their entry, and Bub1 may serve as a potential antiviral therapy target for limiting viral entry.

A quantitative analysis of cohesin decay in mitotic fidelity

Sister chromatid cohesion mediated by cohesin is essential for mitotic fidelity. It counteracts spindle forces to prevent premature chromatid individualization and random genome segregation. However, it is unclear what effects a partial decline of cohesin may have on chromosome organization. In this study, we provide a quantitative analysis of cohesin decay by inducing acute removal of defined amounts of cohesin from metaphase-arrested chromosomes. We demonstrate that sister chromatid cohesion is very resistant to cohesin loss as chromatid disjunction is only observed when chromosomes lose >80% of bound cohesin. Removal close to this threshold leads to chromosomes that are still cohered but display compromised chromosome alignment and unstable spindle attachments. Partial cohesin decay leads to increased duration of mitosis and susceptibility to errors in chromosome segregation. We propose that high cohesin density ensures centromeric chromatin rigidity necessary to maintain a force balance with the mitotic spindle. Partial cohesin loss may lead to chromosome segregation errors even when sister chromatid cohesion is fulfilled.

Lessons from bacterial homolog of tubulin, FtsZ for microtubule dynamics

FtsZ, a homolog of tubulin, is found in almost all bacteria and archaea where it has a primary role in cytokinesis. Evidence for structural homology between FtsZ and tubulin came from their crystal structures and identification of the GTP box. Tubulin and FtsZ constitute a distinct family of GTPases and show striking similarities in many of their polymerization properties. The differences between them, more so, the complexities of microtubule dynamic behavior in comparison to that of FtsZ, indicate that the evolution to tubulin is attributable to the incorporation of the complex functionalities in higher organisms. FtsZ and microtubules function as polymers in cell division but their roles differ in the division process. The structural and partial functional homology has made the study of their dynamic properties more interesting. In this review, we focus on the application of the information derived from studies on FtsZ dynamics to study microtubule dynamics and vice versa. The structural and functional aspects that led to the establishment of the homology between the two proteins are explained to emphasize the network of FtsZ and microtubule studies and how they are connected.

A novel mutation in the N-terminal domain of Drosophila BubR1 affects the spindle assembly checkpoint function of BubR1

The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) is a surveillance mechanism that ensures accurate segregation of chromosomes into two daughter cells. BubR1, a key component of the SAC, also plays a role in the mitotic timing since depletion of BubR1 leads to accelerated mitosis. We previously found that mutation of the KEN1-box domain of Drosophila BubR1 (bubR1-KEN1 mutant) affects the binding of BubR1 to Cdc20, the activating co-factor of the APC/C, and does not accelerate the mitotic timing despite resulting in a defective SAC, which was unlike what was reported in mammalian cells. Here, we show that a mutation in a novel Drosophila short sequence (bubR1-KAN mutant) leads to an accelerated mitotic timing as well as SAC failure. Moreover, our data indicate that the level of Fzy, the Drosophila homolog of Cdc20, recruited to kinetochores is diminished in bubR1-KEN1 mutant cells and further diminished in bubR1-KAN mutant cells. Altogether, our data show that this newly identified Drosophila BubR1 KAN motif is required for a functional SAC and suggest that it may play an important role on Cdc20/Fzy kinetochore recruitment.

Summary: We have identified a novel short motif sequence in the Drosophila BubR1 protein which when mutated affects the amount of Cdc20 recruited to the kinetochores and leads to an abrogation of the SAC.

Dynein Light Intermediate Chain 2 Facilitates the Metaphase to Anaphase Transition by Inactivating the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint

The multi-functional molecular motor cytoplasmic dynein performs diverse essential roles during mitosis. The mechanistic importance of the dynein Light Intermediate Chain homologs, LIC1 and LIC2 is unappreciated, especially in the context of mitosis. LIC1 and LIC2 are believed to exist in distinct cytoplasmic dynein complexes as obligate subunits. LIC1 had earlier been reported to be required for metaphase to anaphase progression by inactivating the kinetochore-microtubule attachment-sensing arm of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC). However, the functional importance of LIC2 during mitosis remains elusive. Here we report prominent novel roles for the LIC2 subunit of cytoplasmic dynein in regulating the spindle assembly checkpoint. LIC2 depletion in mammalian cells led to prolonged metaphase arrest in the presence of an active SAC and also to stretched kinetochores, thus implicating it in SAC inactivation. Quantitative fluorescence microscopy of SAC components revealed accumulation of both attachment- and tension-sensing checkpoint proteins at metaphase kinetochores upon LIC2 depletion. These observations support a stronger and more diverse role in checkpoint inactivation for LIC2 in comparison to its close homolog LIC1. Our study uncovers a novel functional hierarchy during mitotic checkpoint inactivation between the closely related but homologous LIC subunits of cytoplasmic dynein. These subtle functional distinctions between dynein subpopulations could be exploited to study specific aspects of the spindle assembly checkpoint, which is a key mediator of fidelity in eukaryotic cell division.

Bub3-BubR1-dependent sequestration of Cdc20Fizzy at DNA breaks facilitates the correct segregation of broken chromosomes

BubR1 depends on its association with Bub3 to localize on DNA breaks during mitosis, where it sequesters Cdc20^Fizzy and induces the inhibition of the APC/C locally, promoting the faithful segregation of broken chromatids.

The presence of DNA double-strand breaks during mitosis is particularly challenging for the cell, as it produces broken chromosomes lacking a centromere. This situation can cause genomic instability resulting from improper segregation of the broken fragments into daughter cells. We recently uncovered a process by which broken chromosomes are faithfully transmitted via the BubR1-dependent tethering of the two broken chromosome ends. However, the mechanisms underlying BubR1 recruitment and function on broken chromosomes were largely unknown. We show that BubR1 requires interaction with Bub3 to localize on the broken chromosome fragments and to mediate their proper segregation. We also find that Cdc20, a cofactor of the E3 ubiquitin ligase anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C), accumulates on DNA breaks in a BubR1 KEN box–dependent manner. A biosensor for APC/C activity demonstrates a BubR1-dependent local inhibition of APC/C around the segregating broken chromosome. We therefore propose that the Bub3–BubR1 complex on broken DNA inhibits the APC/C locally via the sequestration of Cdc20, thus promoting proper transmission of broken chromosomes.

Imaging of the Cytoskeleton Using Live and Fixed Drosophila Tissue Culture Cells

In recent years, the convergence of multiple technologies and experimental approaches has led to the expanded use of cultured Drosophila cells as a model system. Their ease of culture and maintenance, susceptibility to RNA interference, and imaging characteristics have led to extensive use in both traditional experimental approaches as well as high-throughput RNAi screens. Here we describe Drosophila S2 cell culture and preparation for live-cell and fixed-cell fluorescence microscopy and scanning electron microscopy.

Premature Sister Chromatid Separation Is Poorly Detected by the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint as a Result of System-Level Feedback

Sister chromatid cohesion, mediated by the cohesin complex, is essential for faithful mitosis. Nevertheless, evidence suggests that the surveillance mechanism that governs mitotic fidelity, the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), is not robust enough to halt cell division when cohesion loss occurs prematurely. The mechanism behind this poor response is not properly understood. Using developing Drosophila brains, we show that full sister chromatid separation elicits a weak checkpoint response resulting in abnormal mitotic exit after a short delay. Quantitative live-cell imaging approaches combined with mathematical modeling indicate that weak SAC activation upon cohesion loss is caused by weak signal generation. This is further attenuated by several feedback loops in the mitotic signaling network. We propose that multiple feedback loops involving cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1) gradually impair error-correction efficiency and accelerate mitotic exit upon premature loss of cohesion. Our findings explain how cohesion defects may escape SAC surveillance.

Spatial regulation of the spindle assembly checkpoint and anaphase-promoting complex in Aspergillus nidulans

The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) plays a critical role in preventing mitotic errors by inhibiting anaphase until all kinetochores are correctly attached to spindle microtubules. In spite of the economic and medical importance of filamentous fungi, relatively little is known about the behavior of SAC proteins in these organisms. In our efforts to understand the role of γ-tubulin in cell cycle regulation, we have created functional fluorescent protein fusions of four SAC proteins in Aspergillus nidulans, the homologs of Mad2, Mps1, Bub1/BubR1 and Bub3. Time-lapse imaging reveals that SAC proteins are in distinct compartments of the cell until early mitosis when they co-localize at the spindle pole body. SAC activity is, thus, spatially regulated in A. nidulans. Likewise, Cdc20, an activator of the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome, is excluded from interphase nuclei, but enters nuclei at mitotic onset and accumulates to a higher level in mitotic nuclei than in the surrounding nucleoplasm before leaving in anaphase/telophase. The activity of this critical cell cycle regulatory complex is likely regulated by the location of Cdc20. Finally, the γ-tubulin mutation mipAD159 causes a nuclear-specific failure of nuclear localization of Mps1 and Bub1/R1 but not of Cdc20, Bub3 or Mad2.

RasGAP mediates neuronal survival in Drosophila through direct regulation of Rab5-dependent endocytosis

The GTPase Ras can either promote or inhibit cell survival. Inactivating mutations in Drosophila RasGAP (encoded by vap), a Ras GTPase-activating protein, lead to age-related brain degeneration. Genetic interactions implicate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-Ras pathway in promoting neurodegeneration but the mechanism is not known. Here, we show that the Src homology 2 (SH2) domains of RasGAP are essential for its neuroprotective function. By using affinity purification and mass spectrometry, we identify a complex containing RasGAP together with Sprint, which is a Ras effector and putative activator of the endocytic GTPase Rab5. Formation of the RasGAP-Sprint complex requires the SH2 domains of RasGAP and tyrosine phosphorylation of Sprint. RasGAP and Sprint colocalize with Rab5-positive early endosomes but not with Rab7-positive late endosomes. We demonstrate a key role for this interaction in neurodegeneration: mutation of Sprint (or Rab5) suppresses neuronal cell death caused by the loss of RasGAP. These results indicate that the long-term survival of adult neurons in Drosophila is crucially dependent on the activities of two GTPases, Ras and Rab5, regulated by the interplay of RasGAP and Sprint.

Centmitor-1, a novel acridinyl-acetohydrazide, possesses similar molecular interaction field and antimitotic cellular phenotype as rigosertib, on 01910.Na

Mitosis is an attractive target for the development of new anticancer drugs. In a search for novel mitotic inhibitors, we virtually screened for low molecular weight compounds that would possess similar steric and electrostatic features, but different chemical structure than rigosertib (ON 01910.Na), a putative inhibitor of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) pathways. Highest scoring hit compounds were tested in cell-based assays for their ability to induce mitotic arrest. We identified a novel acridinyl-acetohydrazide, here named as Centmitor-1 (Cent-1), that possesses highly similar molecular interaction field as rigosertib. In cells, Cent-1 phenocopied the cellular effects of rigosertib and caused mitotic arrest characterized by chromosome alignment defects, multipolar spindles, centrosome fragmentation, and activated spindle assembly checkpoint. We compared the effects of Cent-1 and rigosertib on microtubules and found that both compounds modulated microtubule plus-ends and reduced microtubule dynamics. Also, mitotic spindle forces were affected by the compounds as tension across sister kinetochores was reduced in mitotic cells. Our results showed that both Cent-1 and rigosertib target processes that occur during mitosis as they had immediate antimitotic effects when added to cells during mitosis. Analysis of Plk1 activity in cells using a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based assay indicated that neither compound affected the activity of the kinase. Taken together, these findings suggest that Cent-1 and rigosertib elicit their antimitotic effects by targeting mitotic processes without impairment of Plk1 kinase activity.

Stability of kinetochore-microtubule attachment and the role of different KMN network components in Drosophila

Kinetochores bind spindle microtubules and also act as signaling centers that monitor this interaction. Defects in kinetochore assembly lead to chromosome missegregation and aneuploidy. The interaction between microtubules and chromosomes involves a conserved super-complex of proteins, known as the KNL1Mis12Ndc80 (KMN) network, composed by the KNL1 (Spc105), Mis12, and Ndc80 complexes. Previous studies indicate that all components of the network are required for kinetochore-microtubule attachment and all play relevant functions in chromosome congression, biorientation, and segregation. Here, we report a comparative study addressing the role of the different KMN components using dsRNA and in vivo fluorescence microscopy in Drosophila S2 cells allowing us to suggest that different KMN network components might perform different roles in chromosome segregation and the mitotic checkpoint signaling. Depletion of different components results in mostly lateral kinetochore-microtubule attachments that are relatively stable on depletion of Mis12 or Ndc80 but very unstable after Spc105 depletion. In vivo analysis on depletion of Mis12, Ndc80, and to some extent Spc105, shows that lateral kinetochore-microtubule interactions are still functional allowing poleward kinetochore movement. We also find that different KMN network components affect differently the localization of spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) proteins at kinetochores. Depletion of Ndc80 and Spc105 abolishes the mitotic checkpoint, whereas depletion of Mis12 causes a delay in mitotic progression. Taken together, our results suggest that Mis12 and Ndc80 complexes help to properly orient microtubule attachment, whereas Spc105 plays a predominant role in the kinetochore-microtubule attachment as well as in the poleward movement of chromosomes, SAC response, and cell viability.

A tumor suppressor role of the Bub3 spindle checkpoint protein after apoptosis inhibition

The loss of the spindle checkpoint protein Bub3 is sufficient to induce aneuploidy and drive tumorigenesis when apoptosis is compromised.

Most solid tumors contain aneuploid cells, indicating that the mitotic checkpoint is permissive to the proliferation of chromosomally aberrant cells. However, mutated or altered expression of mitotic checkpoint genes accounts for a minor proportion of human tumors. We describe a Drosophila melanogaster tumorigenesis model derived from knocking down spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) genes and preventing apoptosis in wing imaginal discs. Bub3-deficient tumors that were also deficient in apoptosis displayed neoplastic growth, chromosomal aneuploidy, and high proliferative potential after transplantation into adult flies. Inducing aneuploidy by knocking down CENP-E and preventing apoptosis does not induce tumorigenesis, indicating that aneuploidy is not sufficient for hyperplasia. In this system, the aneuploidy caused by a deficient SAC is not driving tumorigenesis because preventing Bub3 from binding to the kinetochore does not cause hyperproliferation. Our data suggest that Bub3 has a nonkinetochore-dependent function that is consistent with its role as a tumor suppressor.

New insights into the role of BubR1 in mitosis and beyond

BubR1 is a critical component of the spindle assembly checkpoint, the surveillance mechanism that helps maintain the high fidelity of mitotic chromosome segregation by preventing cells from initiating anaphase if one or more kinetochores are not attached to the spindle. BubR1 also helps promote the establishment of stable kinetochore-microtubule attachments during prometaphase. In this chapter, we review the structure, functions, and regulation of BubR1 in these "classical roles" at the kinetochore. We discuss its recruitment to kinetochores, its assembly into the inhibitor of anaphase progression, and the importance of its posttranslational modifications. We also consider the evidence for its participation in other roles beyond mitosis, such as the meiosis-specific processes of recombination and prophase arrest of the first meiotic division, the cellular response to DNA damage, and in the regulation of centrosome and basal body function. Finally, studies are presented linking BubR1 dysfunction or misregulation to aging and human disease, particularly cancer.

Is germline transmission of MAD2 gene deletion associated with human fetal loss?

The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) monitors proper attachment of spindles to the kinetochore during mitotic and meiotic cell divisions and thus prevents aneuploidy. Chromosomal aneuploidy has been found to be associated with pregnancy loss and birth defects. Mad2 is one of the critical molecules of SAC. Deregulated Mad2 expression has been found to be associated with defective SAC-mediated abnormal meiotic progression in cell studies using animal models. Whether mutation in MAD2L1 is associated with the loss of Mad2 expression in aborted human fetuses is unknown. In this study, a correlation between aneuploidy and MAD2 defect was examined in primary fibroblast cultures obtained from abortuses. We report three trisomic abortuses with undetectable Mad2 expression. Further, quantitative real-time PCR revealed copy number deletion of MAD2 gene in these fetuses. Analysis of parental DNA samples available from two families revealed copy number loss of the same gene, suggesting Mendelian inheritance of MAD2 deletion. This germline transmission of exonic deletion of MAD2 is possibly associated with its loss of expression resulting in abnormal SAC function, subsequent aneuploidy and pregnancy loss.

Spindle checkpoint-independent inhibition of mitotic chromosome segregation by Drosophila Mps1

Monopolar spindle 1 (Mps1) is essential for the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), which prevents anaphase onset in the presence of misaligned chromosomes. Moreover, Mps1 kinase contributes in a SAC-independent manner to the correction of erroneous initial attachments of chromosomes to the spindle. Our characterization of the Drosophila homologue reveals yet another SAC-independent role. As in yeast, modest overexpression of Drosophila Mps1 is sufficient to delay progression through mitosis during metaphase, even though chromosome congression and metaphase alignment do not appear to be affected. This delay in metaphase depends on the SAC component Mad2. Although Mps1 overexpression in mad2 mutants no longer causes a metaphase delay, it perturbs anaphase. Sister kinetochores barely move apart toward spindle poles. However, kinetochore movements can be restored experimentally by separase-independent resolution of sister chromatid cohesion. We propose therefore that Mps1 inhibits sister chromatid separation in a SAC-independent manner. Moreover, we report unexpected results concerning the requirement of Mps1 dimerization and kinase activity for its kinetochore localization in Drosophila. These findings further expand Mps1's significance for faithful mitotic chromosome segregation and emphasize the importance of its careful regulation.

Monitoring the fidelity of mitotic chromosome segregation by the spindle assembly checkpoint

Accurate chromosome segregation relies on activity of the spindle assembly checkpoint, a surveillance mechanism that prevents premature anaphase onset until all chromosomes are properly attached to the mitotic spindle apparatus and aligned at the metaphase plate. Defects in this mechanism contribute to chromosome instability and aneuploidy, a hallmark of malignant cells. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms of activation and silencing of the spindle assembly checkpoint and its relationship to tumourigenesis.

polo Is Identified as a Suppressor of bubR1 Nondisjunction in a Deficiency Screen of the Third Chromosome in Drosophila melanogaster

We have previously characterized an EMS-induced allele of the bubR1 gene (bubR1^D1326N) that separates the two functions of BubR1, causing meiotic nondisjunction but retaining spindle assembly checkpoint activity during somatic cell division in Drosophila melanogaster. Using this allele, we demonstrate that bubR1 meiotic nondisjunction is dosage sensitive, occurs for both exchange and nonexchange homologous chromosomes, and is associated with decreased maintenance of sister chromatid cohesion and of the synaptonemal complex during prophase I progression. We took advantage of these features to perform a genetic screen designed to identify third chromosome deficiencies having a dominant effect on bubR1^D1326N/bubR1^rev1 meiotic phenotypes. We tested 65 deficiencies covering 60% of the third chromosome euchromatin. Among them, we characterized 24 deficiencies having a dominant effect on bubR1^D1326N/bubR1^rev1 meiotic phenotypes that we classified in two groups: (1) suppressor of nondisjunction and (2) enhancer of nondisjunction. Among these 24 deficiencies, our results show that deficiencies uncovering the polo locus act as suppressor of bubR1 nondisjunction by delaying meiotic prophase I progression and restoring chiasmata formation as observed by the loading of the condensin subunit SMC2. Furthermore, we identified two deficiencies inducing a lethal phenotype during embryonic development and thus affecting BubR1 kinase activity in somatic cells and one deficiency causing female sterility. Overall, our genetic screening strategy proved to be highly sensitive for the identification of modifiers of BubR1 kinase activity in both meiosis and mitosis.

Assembly of Drosophila centromeric chromatin proteins during mitosis

Semi-conservative segregation of nucleosomes to sister chromatids during DNA replication creates gaps that must be filled by new nucleosome assembly. We analyzed the cell-cycle timing of centromeric chromatin assembly in Drosophila, which contains the H3 variant CID (CENP-A in humans), as well as CENP-C and CAL1, which are required for CID localization. Pulse-chase experiments show that CID and CENP-C levels decrease by 50% at each cell division, as predicted for semi-conservative segregation and inheritance, whereas CAL1 displays higher turnover. Quench-chase-pulse experiments demonstrate that there is a significant lag between replication and replenishment of centromeric chromatin. Surprisingly, new CID is recruited to centromeres in metaphase, by a mechanism that does not require an intact mitotic spindle, but does require proteasome activity. Interestingly, new CAL1 is recruited to centromeres before CID in prophase. Furthermore, CAL1, but not CENP-C, is found in complex with pre-nucleosomal CID. Finally, CENP-C displays yet a different pattern of incorporation, during both interphase and mitosis. The unusual timing of CID recruitment and unique dynamics of CAL1 identify a distinct centromere assembly pathway in Drosophila and suggest that CAL1 is a key regulator of centromere propagation.

A conserved arginine-rich motif within the hypervariable N-domain of Drosophila centromeric histone H3 (CenH3) mediates BubR1 recruitment

Background

Centromere identity is determined epigenetically by deposition of CenH3, a centromere-specific histone H3 variant that dictates kinetochore assembly. The molecular basis of the contribution of CenH3 to centromere/kinetochore functions is, however, incompletely understood, as its interactions with the rest of centromere/kinetochore components remain largely uncharacterised at the molecular/structural level.

Principal Findings

Here, we report on the contribution of Drosophila CenH3^CID to recruitment of BubR1, a conserved kinetochore protein that is a core component of the spindle attachment checkpoint (SAC). This interaction is mediated by the N-terminal domain of CenH3^CID (NCenH3^CID), as tethering NCenH3^CID to an ectopic reporter construct results in BubR1 recruitment and BubR1-dependent silencing of the reporter gene. Here, we also show that this interaction depends on a short arginine (R)-rich motif and that, most remarkably, it appears to be evolutionarily conserved, as tethering constructs carrying the highly divergent NCenH3 of budding yeast and human also induce silencing of the reporter. Interestingly, though NCenH3 shows an exceedingly low degree of conservation, the presence of R-rich motives is a common feature of NCenH3 from distant species. Finally, our results also indicate that two other conserved sequence motives within NCenH3^CID might also be involved in interactions with kinetochore components.

Conclusions

These results unveil an unexpected contribution of the hypervariable N-domain of CenH3 to recruitment of kinetochore components, identifying simple R-rich motives within it as evolutionary conserved structural determinants involved in BubR1 recruitment.

Nuclear proteome analysis of cisplatin-treated HeLa cells

Cisplatin has been widely accepted as one of the most efficient anticancer drugs for decades. However, the mechanisms for the cytotoxic effects of cisplatin are still not fully understood. Cisplatin primarily targets DNA, resulting in the formation of DNA double strand breaks and eventually causing cell death. In this study, we applied two-dimensional electrophoresis coupled with LC-MS/MS to analyze the nuclear proteome of HeLa cells treated with cisplatin, in an effort to uncover new mechanistic clues regarding the cellular response to cisplatin. A total of 19 proteins were successfully identified, and these proteins are involved in a variety of basal metabolic and biological processes in cells, including biosynthesis, cell cycle, glycolysis and apoptosis. Six were related to the regulation of mRNA splicing, and we therefore asked whether the Fas gene might undergo alternative splicing following cisplatin treatment. This proved to be the case, as the splicing forms of Fas were modified in cisplatin-treated HeLa cells. This work provides novel information, from the perspective of the nuclear response, for understanding the cytotoxicity caused by cisplatin-induced DNA damage.

MAPK-activated protein kinase 2 is required for mouse meiotic spindle assembly and kinetochore-microtubule attachment

MAPK-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2), a direct substrate of p38 MAPK, plays key roles in multiple physiological functions in mitosis. Here, we show for the first time the unique distribution pattern of MK2 in meiosis. Phospho-MK2 was localized on bipolar spindle minus ends and along the interstitial axes of homologous chromosomes extending over centromere regions and arm regions at metaphase of first meiosis (MI stage) in mouse oocytes. At metaphase of second meiosis (MII stage), p-MK2 was localized on the bipolar spindle minus ends and at the inner centromere region of sister chromatids as dots. Knockdown or inhibition of MK2 resulted in spindle defects. Spindles were surrounded by irregular nondisjunction chromosomes, which were arranged in an amphitelic or syntelic/monotelic manner, or chromosomes detached from the spindles. Kinetochore-microtubule attachments were impaired in MK2-deficient oocytes because spindle microtubules became unstable in response to cold treatment. In addition, homologous chromosome segregation and meiosis progression were inhibited in these oocytes. Our data suggest that MK2 may be essential for functional meiotic bipolar spindle formation, chromosome segregation and proper kinetochore-microtubule attachments.

Welcome to a new kind of tension: translating kinetochore mechanics into a wait-anaphase signal

Recent high-resolution studies of kinetochore structure have transformed the way researchers think about this crucial macro-molecular complex, which is essential for ensuring chromosome segregation occurs faithfully during cell division. Kinetochores mediate the interaction between chromosomes and the plus-ends of dynamic spindle microtubules and control the timing of anaphase onset by regulating the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC). There is much debate in the SAC research community as to whether mitotic cells sense only microtubule attachment at the kinetochore, or both attachment and tension, before committing to anaphase. In this Commentary, we present a brief history of the tension-versus-attachment debate, summarize recent advances in our understanding of kinetochore structure and focus on the implications of a phenomenon known as intrakinetochore stretch for SAC regulation. We also hypothesize how intrakinetochore stretch might impact SAC function by regulating both microtubule attachment stability and the localization and activity of checkpoint components at the kinetochore.

Recruitment of Cdc20 to the kinetochore requires BubR1 but not Mad2 in Drosophila melanogaster

To prevent aneuploidy, cells require a mitotic surveillance mechanism, the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC). The SAC prevents metaphase/anaphase transition by blocking the ubiquitylation and destruction of cyclin B and securin via the Cdc20-activated anaphase-promoting complex or cyclosome (APC/C)-mediated proteolysis pathway. This checkpoint involves the kinetochore proteins Mad2, BubR1, and Cdc20. Mad2 and BubR1 are inhibitors of the APC/C, but Cdc20 is an activator. Exactly how the SAC regulates Cdc20 via unattached kinetochores remains unclear; in vertebrates, most current models suggest that kinetochore-bound Mad2 is required for initial binding to Cdc20 to form a stable complex that includes BubR1. Here, we show that the Mad2 kinetochore dimerization recruitment mechanism is conserved and that the recruitment of Cdc20 to kinetochores in Drosophila requires BubR1 but not Mad2. BubR1 and Mad2 can bind to Cdc20 independently, and the interactions are enhanced after cells are arrested at mitosis by the depletion of Cdc27 using RNA interference (RNAi) in S2 cells or by MG132 treatment in syncytial embryos. These findings offer an explanation of why BubR1 is more important than Mad2 for SAC function in flies. These findings could lead to a better understanding of vertebrate SAC mechanisms.

Cohesin cleavage and Cdk inhibition trigger formation of daughter nuclei

The metaphase-anaphase transition is orchestrated through proteolysis of numerous proteins by a ubiquitin protein ligase called the anaphase-promoting complex or cyclosome (APC/C). A crucial aspect of this process is sister chromatid separation, which is thought to be mediated by separase, a thiol protease activated by the APC/C. Separase cleaves cohesin, a ring-shaped complex that entraps sister DNAs. It is a matter of debate whether cohesin-independent forces also contribute to sister chromatid cohesion. Using 4D live-cell imaging of Drosophila melanogaster syncytial embryos blocked in metaphase (via APC/C inhibition), we show that artificial cohesin cleavage is sufficient to trigger chromosome disjunction. This is nevertheless insufficient for correct chromosome segregation. Kinetochore-microtubule attachments are rapidly destabilized by the loss of tension caused by cohesin cleavage in the presence of high Cdk1 (cyclin-dependent kinase 1) activity, as occurs when the APC/C cannot destroy mitotic cyclins. Metaphase chromosomes undergo a bona fide anaphase when cohesin cleavage is combined with Cdk1 inhibition. We conclude that only two key events, opening of cohesin rings and downregulation of Cdk1, are sufficient to drive proper segregation of chromosomes in anaphase.

BubR1- and Polo-coated DNA tethers facilitate poleward segregation of acentric chromatids

The mechanisms that safeguard cells against chromosomal instability (CIN) are of great interest, as CIN contributes to tumorigenesis. To gain insight into these mechanisms, we studied the behavior of cells entering mitosis with damaged chromosomes. We used the endonuclease I-CreI to generate acentric chromosomes in Drosophila larvae. While I-CreI expression produces acentric chromosomes in the majority of neuronal stem cells, remarkably, it has no effect on adult survival. Our live studies reveal that acentric chromatids segregate efficiently to opposite poles. The acentric chromatid poleward movement is mediated through DNA tethers decorated with BubR1, Polo, INCENP, and Aurora-B. Reduced BubR1 or Polo function results in abnormal segregation of acentric chromatids, a decrease in acentric chromosome tethering, and a great reduction in adult survival. We propose that BubR1 and Polo facilitate the accurate segregation of acentric chromatids by maintaining the integrity of the tethers that connect acentric chromosomes to their centric partners.

Separating the spindle, checkpoint, and timer functions of BubR1

The BubR1 kinase domain controls spindle attachment to the kinetochores, whereas the KEN domain regulates activation of the spindle assembly checkpoint.

BubR1 performs several roles during mitosis, affecting the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), mitotic timing, and spindle function, but the interdependence of these functions is unclear. We have analyzed in Drosophila melanogaster the mitotic phenotypes of kinase-dead (KD) BubR1 and BubR1 lacking the N-terminal KEN box. bubR1-KD individuals have a robust SAC but abnormal spindles with thin kinetochore fibers, suggesting that the kinase activity modulates microtubule capture and/or dynamics but is relatively dispensable for SAC function. In contrast, bubR1-KEN flies have normal spindles but no SAC. Nevertheless, mitotic timing is normal as long as Mad2 is present. Thus, the SAC, timer, and spindle functions of BubR1 are substantially separable. Timing is shorter in bubR1-KEN mad2 double mutants, yet in these flies, lacking both critical SAC components, chromosomes still segregate accurately, reconfirming that in Drosophila, reliable mitosis does not need the SAC.

Loss of spindle assembly checkpoint-mediated inhibition of Cdc20 promotes tumorigenesis in mice

Genomic instability is a hallmark of human cancers. Spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) is a critical cellular mechanism that prevents chromosome missegregation and therefore aneuploidy by blocking premature separation of sister chromatids. Thus, SAC, much like the DNA damage checkpoint, is essential for genome stability. In this study, we report the generation and analysis of mice carrying a Cdc20 allele in which three residues critical for the interaction with Mad2 were mutated to alanine. The mutant Cdc20 protein (AAA-Cdc20) is no longer inhibited by Mad2 in response to SAC activation, leading to the dysfunction of SAC and aneuploidy. The dysfunction could not be rescued by the additional expression of another Cdc20 inhibitor, BubR1. Furthermore, we found that Cdc20(AAA/AAA) mice died at late gestation, but Cdc20(+/AAA) mice were viable. Importantly, Cdc20(+/AAA) mice developed spontaneous tumors at highly accelerated rates, indicating that the SAC-mediated inhibition of Cdc20 is an important tumor-suppressing mechanism.

Core exosome-independent roles for Rrp6 in cell cycle progression

Exosome complexes are 3' to 5' exoribonucleases composed of subunits that are critical for numerous distinct RNA metabolic (ribonucleometabolic) pathways. Several studies have implicated the exosome subunits Rrp6 and Dis3 in chromosome segregation and cell division but the functional relevance of these findings remains unclear. Here, we report that, in Drosophila melanogaster S2 tissue culture cells, dRrp6 is required for cell proliferation and error-free mitosis, but the core exosome subunit Rrp40 is not. Micorarray analysis of dRrp6-depleted cell reveals increased levels of cell cycle- and mitosis-related transcripts. Depletion of dRrp6 elicits a decrease in the frequency of mitotic cells and in the mitotic marker phospho-histone H3 (pH3), with a concomitant increase in defects in chromosome congression, separation, and segregation. Endogenous dRrp6 dynamically redistributes during mitosis, accumulating predominantly but not exclusively on the condensed chromosomes. In contrast, core subunits localize predominantly to MTs throughout cell division. Finally, dRrp6-depleted cells treated with microtubule poisons exhibit normal kinetochore recruitment of the spindle assembly checkpoint protein BubR1 without restoring pH3 levels, suggesting that these cells undergo premature chromosome condensation. Collectively, these data support the idea that dRrp6 has a core exosome-independent role in cell cycle and mitotic progression.

Sgt1, a co-chaperone of Hsp90 stabilizes Polo and is required for centrosome organization

Sgt1 was described previously in yeast and humans to be a Hsp90 co-chaperone and required for kinetochore assembly. We have identified a mutant allele of Sgt1 in Drosophila and characterized its function. Mutations in sgt1 do not affect overall kinetochore assembly or spindle assembly checkpoint. sgt1 mutant cells enter less frequently into mitosis and arrest in a prometaphase-like state. Mutations in sgt1 severely compromise the organization and function of the mitotic apparatus. In these cells, centrioles replicate but centrosomes fail to mature, and pericentriolar material components do not localize normally resulting in highly abnormal spindles. Interestingly, a similar phenotype was described previously in Hsp90 mutant cells and correlated with a decrease in Polo protein levels. In sgt1 mutant neuroblasts, we also observe a decrease in overall levels of Polo. Overexpression of the kinase results in a substantial rescue of the centrosome defects; most cells form normal bipolar spindles and progress through mitosis normally. Taken together, these findings suggest that Sgt1 is involved in the stabilization of Polo allowing normal centrosome maturation, entry and progression though mitosis.

Congression of achiasmate chromosomes to the metaphase plate in Drosophila melanogaster oocytes

Chiasmata established by recombination are normally sufficient to ensure accurate chromosome segregation during meiosis by physically interlocking homologs until anaphase I. Drosophila melanogaster female meiosis is unusual in that it is both exceptionally tolerant of nonexchange chromosomes and competent in ensuring their proper segregation. As first noted by Puro and Nokkala [Puro, J., Nokkala, S., 1977. Meiotic segregation of chromosomes in Drosophila melanogaster oocytes. A cytological approach. Chromosoma 63, 273-286], nonexchange chromosomes move precociously towards the poles following formation of a bipolar spindle. Indeed, metaphase arrest has been previously defined as the stage at which nonexchange homologs are symmetrically positioned between the main chromosome mass and the poles of the spindle. Here we use studies of both fixed images and living oocytes to show that the stage in which achiasmate chromosomes are separated from the main mass does not in fact define metaphase arrest, but rather is a component of an extended prometaphase. At the end of prometaphase, the nonexchange chromosomes retract into the main chromosome mass, which is tightly repackaged with properly co-oriented centromeres. This repackaged state is the true metaphase arrest configuration in Drosophila female meiosis.

Dynein light intermediate chain: an essential subunit that contributes to spindle checkpoint inactivation

The dynein light intermediate chain (LIC) is a subunit unique to the cytoplasmic form of dynein, but how it contributes to dynein function is not fully understood. Previous work has established that the LIC homodimer binds directly to the dynein heavy chain and may mediate the attachment of dynein to centrosomes and other cargoes. Here, we report our characterization of the LIC in Drosophila. Unlike vertebrates, in which two Lic genes encode multiple subunit isoforms, the Drosophila LIC is encoded by a single gene. We determined that the single LIC polypeptide is phosphorylated, and that different phosphoisoforms can assemble into the dynein motor complex. Our mutational analyses demonstrate that, similar to other dynein subunits, the Drosophila LIC is required for zygotic development, germline specification of the oocyte, and mitotic cell division. We show that RNA interference depletion of LIC in Drosophila S2 cells does not block the recruitment of a dynein complex to kinetochores, but it does delay inactivation of Mad2 signaling and mitotic progression. Our observations suggest the LIC contributes to a broad range of dynein functions.

An integrated mechanobiochemical feedback mechanism describes chromosome motility from prometaphase to anaphase in mitosis

During mitosis, chromosomes undergo a series of movements while being end-on attached to the kinetochore microtubules (KMTs) from spindle poles. The mechanism underlying such movements and their physiological functions remains elusive. We describe a mechanobiochemical feedback model of chromosome motility. The key ingredient is a feedback mechanism between the local chemical reactions that control the dynamics of KMTs and the mechanical state of the chromosome via tension-sensitive proteins localized at the kinetochores. This model can recapitulate all of the essential and distinct features of chromosome motilities from prometaphase to anaphase in a coherent manner. We further show that this feedback mechanism provides robust and precise means of guiding the chromosome to the cell equator regardless of the initial conditions and uncertainty in velocity. Predictions of our model can be tested experimentally.

Dual regulation of Mad2 localization on kinetochores by Bub1 and Dam1/DASH that ensure proper spindle interaction

The spindle assembly checkpoint monitors the state of spindle-kinetochore interaction to prevent premature onset of anaphase. Although checkpoint proteins, such as Mad2, are localized on kinetochores that do not interact properly with the spindle, it remains unknown how the checkpoint proteins recognize abnormalities in spindle-kinetochore interaction. Here, we report that Mad2 localization on kinetochores in fission yeast is regulated by two partially overlapping but distinct pathways: the Dam1/DASH and the Bub1 pathways. We show that Mad2 is localized on "unattached" as well as "tensionless" kinetochores. Our observations suggest that Bub1 is required for Mad2 to detect tensionless kinetochores, whereas Dam1/DASH is crucial for Mad2 to detect unattached kinetochores. In cells lacking both Bub1 and Dam1/DASH, Mad2 localization on kinetochores is diminished, and mitotic progression appears to be accelerated despite the frequent occurrence of abnormal chromosome segregation. Furthermore, we found that Dam1/DASH is required for promotion of spindle association with unattached kinetochores. In contrast, there is accumulating evidence that Bub1 is involved in resolution of erroneous spindle attachment on tensionless kinetochores. These pathways may act as molecular sensors determining the state of spindle association on each kinetochore, enabling proper regulation of the checkpoint activation as well as promotion/resolution of spindle attachment.

The multiple roles of mps1 in Drosophila female meiosis

The Drosophila gene ald encodes the fly ortholog of mps1, a conserved kinetochore-associated protein kinase required for the meiotic and mitotic spindle assembly checkpoints. Using live imaging, we demonstrate that oocytes lacking Ald/Mps1 (hereafter referred to as Ald) protein enter anaphase I immediately upon completing spindle formation, in a fashion that does not allow sufficient time for nonexchange homologs to complete their normal partitioning to opposite half spindles. This observation can explain the heightened sensitivity of nonexchange chromosomes to the meiotic effects of hypomorphic ald alleles. In one of the first studies of the female meiotic kinetochore, we show that Ald localizes to the outer edge of meiotic kinetochores after germinal vesicle breakdown, where it is often observed to be extended well away from the chromosomes. Ald also localizes to numerous filaments throughout the oocyte. These filaments, which are not observed in mitotic cells, also contain the outer kinetochore protein kinase Polo, but not the inner kinetochore proteins Incenp or Aurora-B. These filaments polymerize during early germinal vesicle breakdown, perhaps as a means of storing excess outer kinetochore kinases during early embryonic development.

Female meiosis is the process that ensures developing eggs (called oocytes) receive the proper complement of chromosomes. The failure to accurately segregate chromosomes results in aneuploidy, which is the leading cause of birth defects in humans. Cells contain checkpoints that help ensure proper chromosome segregation. Here, we present a study of the Drosophila homolog of monopolar spindles 1 (mps1), which is a key checkpoint component. Mutants in mps1 produce oocytes with the wrong number of chromosomes. Using live imaging of female meiosis, we find that mps1 mutants do not delay the cell cycle as is normally observed in wild-type flies. This delay gives chromosomes the time needed to properly align before cell division, and therefore the defect caused by mps1 mutants is due to chromosomes being forced to segregate before they have had time to properly align. Additionally, we find that mps1 as well as two other checkpoint proteins localize to numerous filaments throughout the oocyte. These filaments appear to form when the nuclear envelope breaks down, and disappear late in meiosis. While the function of these structures is not known, they appear similar to filaments seen in female meiosis in nematodes, and may be required to regulate these proteins.

Cell-type-specific TEV protease cleavage reveals cohesin functions in Drosophila neurons

Cohesin is a highly conserved multisubunit complex that holds sister chromatids together in mitotic cells. At the metaphase to anaphase transition, proteolytic cleavage of the alpha kleisin subunit (Rad21) by separase causes cohesin's dissociation from chromosomes and triggers sister-chromatid disjunction. To investigate cohesin's function in postmitotic cells, where it is widely expressed, we have created fruit flies whose Rad21 can be cleaved by TEV protease. Cleavage causes precocious separation of sister chromatids and massive chromosome missegregation in proliferating cells, but not disaggregation of polytene chromosomes in salivary glands. Crucially, cleavage in postmitotic neurons is lethal. In mushroom-body neurons, it causes defects in axon pruning, whereas in cholinergic neurons it causes highly abnormal larval locomotion. These data demonstrate essential roles for cohesin in nondividing cells and also introduce a powerful tool by which to investigate protein function in metazoa.

BubR1 is required for a sustained mitotic spindle checkpoint arrest in human cancer cells treated with tubulin-targeting pyrrolo-1,5-benzoxazepines

Intrinsic or acquired resistance to chemotherapy is a major clinical problem that has evoked the need to develop innovative approaches to predict and ultimately reverse drug resistance. A prolonged G(2)M arrest has been associated with apoptotic resistance to various microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs). In this study, we describe the functional significance of the mitotic spindle checkpoint proteins, BubR1 and Bub3, in maintaining a mitotic arrest after microtubule disruption by nocodazole and a novel series of MTAs, the pyrrolo-1,5-benzoxazepines (PBOXs), in human cancer cells. Cells expressing high levels of BubR1 and Bub3 (K562, MDA-MB-231, and HeLa) display a prolonged G(2)M arrest after exposure to MTAs. On the other hand, cells with low endogenous levels of mitotic spindle checkpoint proteins (SK-BR-3 and HL-60) transiently arrest in mitosis and undergo increased apoptosis. The phosphorylation of BubR1 correlated with PBOX-induced G(2)M arrest in four cell lines tested, indicating an active mitotic spindle checkpoint. Gene silencing of BubR1 by small interfering RNA interference reduced PBOX-induced G(2)M arrest without enhancing apoptotic efficacy. Further analysis demonstrated that PBOX-treated BubR1-depleted cells were both mononucleated and multinucleated with a polyploid DNA content, suggesting a requirement for BubR1 in cytokinesis. Taken together, these results suggest that BubR1 contributes to the mitotic checkpoint induced by the PBOXs.

Temporal regulation of the first mitosis in Xenopus and mouse embryos

Cell cycle regulation in Eukaryotes is based on common molecular actors and mechanisms. However, the canonical cell cycle is modified in certain cells. Such modifications play a key role in oocyte maturation and embryonic development. They can be achieved either by introduction of new components, pathways, substrates, changed interactions between them, or by elimination of some factors inherited by the cells from previous developmental stages. Here we discuss a particular temporal regulation of the first embryonic M-phase of Xenopus and mouse embryos. These two examples help to understand better the general regulation of M-phase of the cell cycle.

Rho-dependent control of anillin behavior during cytokinesis

Anillin is a conserved protein required for cytokinesis but its molecular function is unclear. Anillin accumulation at the cleavage furrow is Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF)(Pbl)-dependent but may also be mediated by known anillin interactions with F-actin and myosin II, which are under RhoGEF(Pbl)-dependent control themselves. Microscopy of Drosophila melanogaster S2 cells reveal here that although myosin II and F-actin do contribute, equatorial anillin localization persists in their absence. Using latrunculin A, the inhibitor of F-actin assembly, we uncovered a separate RhoGEF(Pbl)-dependent pathway that, at the normal time of furrowing, allows stable filamentous structures containing anillin, Rho1, and septins to form directly at the equatorial plasma membrane. These structures associate with microtubule (MT) ends and can still form after MT depolymerization, although they are delocalized under such conditions. Thus, a novel RhoGEF(Pbl)-dependent input promotes the simultaneous association of anillin with the plasma membrane, septins, and MTs, independently of F-actin. We propose that such interactions occur dynamically and transiently to promote furrow stability.