The structure of the Ctf19c/CCAN from budding yeast

Dynamic interplay between human alpha-satellite DNA structure and centromere functions

Maintenance of genome stability relies on functional centromeres for correct chromosome segregation and faithful inheritance of the genetic information. The human centromere is the primary constriction within mitotic chromosomes made up of repetitive alpha-satellite DNA hierarchically organized in megabase-long arrays of near-identical higher order repeats (HORs). Centromeres are epigenetically specified by the presence of the centromere-specific histone H3 variant, CENP-A, which enables the assembly of the kinetochore for microtubule attachment. Notably, centromeric DNA is faithfully inherited as intact haplotypes from the parents to the offspring without intervening recombination, yet, outside of meiosis, centromeres are akin to common fragile sites (CFSs), manifesting crossing-overs and ongoing sequence instability. Consequences of DNA changes within the centromere are just starting to emerge, with unclear effects on intra- and inter-generational inheritance driven by centromere's essential role in kinetochore assembly. Here, we review evidence of meiotic selection operating to mitigate centromere drive, as well as recent reports on centromere damage, recombination and repair during the mitotic cell division. We propose an antagonistic pleiotropy interpretation to reconcile centromere DNA instability as both driver of aneuploidy that underlies degenerative diseases, while also potentially necessary for the maintenance of homogenized HORs for centromere function. We attempt to provide a framework for this conceptual leap taking into consideration the structural interface of centromere-kinetochore interaction and present case scenarios for its malfunctioning. Finally, we offer an integrated working model to connect DNA instability, chromatin, and structural changes with functional consequences on chromosome integrity.

Architecture and flexibility of native kinetochores revealed by structural studies utilizing a thermophilic yeast

Eukaryotic chromosome segregation requires kinetochores, multi-megadalton protein machines that assemble on the centromeres of chromosomes and mediate attachments to dynamic spindle microtubules. Kinetochores are built from numerous complexes, and understanding how they are arranged is key to understanding how kinetochores perform their multiple functions. However, an integrated understanding of kinetochore architecture has not yet been established. To address this, we purified functional, native kinetochores from Kluyveromyces marxianus and examined them by electron microscopy, cryo-electron tomography and atomic force microscopy. The kinetochores are extremely large, flexible assemblies that exhibit features consistent with prior models. We assigned kinetochore polarity by visualizing their interactions with microtubules and locating the microtubule binder Ndc80c. This work shows that isolated kinetochores are more dynamic and complex than what might be anticipated based on the known structures of recombinant subassemblies, and provides the foundation to study the global architecture and functions of kinetochores at a structural level.

Recognition of centromere-specific histone Cse4 by the inner kinetochore Okp1-Ame1 complex

Successful mitosis depends on the timely establishment of correct chromosomal attachments to microtubules. The kinetochore, a modular multiprotein complex, mediates this connection by recognizing specialized chromatin containing a histone H3 variant called Cse4 in budding yeast and CENP-A in vertebrates. Structural features of the kinetochore that enable discrimination between Cse4/CENP-A and H3 have been identified in several species. How and when these contribute to centromere recognition and how they relate to the overall structure of the inner kinetochore are unsettled questions. More generally, this molecular recognition ensures that only one kinetochore is built on each chromatid and that this happens at the right place on the chromatin fiber. We have determined the crystal structure of a Cse4 peptide bound to the essential inner kinetochore Okp1-Ame1 heterodimer from budding yeast. The structure and related experiments show in detail an essential point of Cse4 contact and provide information about the arrangement of the inner kinetochore.

An updated view of the kinetochore architecture

The kinetochore is a supramolecular complex that facilitates faithful chromosome segregation by bridging the centromere and spindle microtubules. Recent functional and structural studies on the inner kinetochore subcomplex, constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN) have updated our understanding of kinetochore architecture. While the CCAN core establishes a stable interface with centromeric chromatin, CCAN organization is dynamically altered and coupled with cell cycle progression. Furthermore, the CCAN components, centromere protein (CENP)-C and CENP-T, mediate higher-order assembly of multiple kinetochore units on the regional centromeres of vertebrates. This review highlights new insights into kinetochore rigidity, plasticity, and clustering, which are key to understanding temporal and spatial regulatory mechanisms of chromosome segregation.

Dynamic phosphorylation of CENP-N by CDK1 guides accurate chromosome segregation in mitosis

In mitosis, accurate chromosome segregation depends on the kinetochore, a supermolecular machinery that couples dynamic spindle microtubules to centromeric chromatin. However, the structure-activity relationship of the constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN) during mitosis remains uncharacterized. Building on our recent cryo-electron microscopic analyses of human CCAN structure, we investigated how dynamic phosphorylation of human CENP-N regulates accurate chromosome segregation. Our mass spectrometric analyses revealed mitotic phosphorylation of CENP-N by CDK1, which modulates the CENP-L-CENP-N interaction for accurate chromosome segregation and CCAN organization. Perturbation of CENP-N phosphorylation is shown to prevent proper chromosome alignment and activate the spindle assembly checkpoint. These analyses provide mechanistic insight into a previously undefined link between the centromere-kinetochore network and accurate chromosome segregation.

Direct observation of coordinated assembly of individual native centromeric nucleosomes

Eukaryotic chromosome segregation requires the kinetochore, a megadalton-sized machine that forms on specialized centromeric chromatin containing CENP-A, a histone H3 variant. CENP-A deposition requires a chaperone protein HJURP that targets it to the centromere, but it has remained unclear whether HJURP has additional functions beyond CENP-A targeting and why high AT DNA content, which disfavors nucleosome assembly, is widely conserved at centromeres. To overcome the difficulties of studying nucleosome formation in vivo, we developed a microscopy assay that enables direct observation of de novo centromeric nucleosome recruitment and maintenance with single molecule resolution. Using this assay, we discover that CENP-A can arrive at centromeres without its dedicated centromere-specific chaperone HJURP, but stable incorporation depends on HJURP and additional DNA-binding proteins of the inner kinetochore. We also show that homopolymer AT runs in the yeast centromeres are essential for efficient CENP-A deposition. Together, our findings reveal requirements for stable nucleosome formation and provide a foundation for further studies of the assembly and dynamics of native kinetochore complexes.

FREEDA: An automated computational pipeline guides experimental testing of protein innovation

Cell biologists typically focus on conserved regions of a protein, overlooking innovations that can shape its function over evolutionary time. Computational analyses can reveal potential innovations by detecting statistical signatures of positive selection that lead to rapid accumulation of beneficial mutations. However, these approaches are not easily accessible to non-specialists, limiting their use in cell biology. Here, we present an automated computational pipeline FREEDA that provides a simple graphical user interface requiring only a gene name; integrates widely used molecular evolution tools to detect positive selection in rodents, primates, carnivores, birds, and flies; and maps results onto protein structures predicted by AlphaFold. Applying FREEDA to >100 centromere proteins, we find statistical evidence of positive selection within loops and turns of ancient domains, suggesting innovation of essential functions. As a proof-of-principle experiment, we show innovation in centromere binding of mouse CENP-O. Overall, we provide an accessible computational tool to guide cell biology research and apply it to experimentally demonstrate functional innovation.

Conserved and divergent mechanisms of inner kinetochore assembly onto centromeric chromatin

Kinetochores are large protein complexes built on centromeric chromatin that mediate chromosome segregation. The inner kinetochore, or constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN), assembles onto centromeres defined by centromere protein A (CENP-A) nucleosomes (CENP-ANuc), and acts as a platform for the regulated assembly of the microtubule-binding outer kinetochore. Recent cryo-EM work revealed structural conservation of CCAN, from the repeating human regional centromeres to the point centromere of budding yeast. Centromere recognition is determined mainly through engagement of duplex DNA proximal to the CENP-A nucleosome by a DNA-binding CENP-LN channel located at the core of CCAN. Additional DNA interactions formed by other CCAN modules create an enclosed DNA-binding chamber. This configuration explains how kinetochores maintain their tight grip on centromeric DNA to withstand the forces of chromosome segregation. Defining the higher-order architecture of complete kinetochore assemblies with implications for understanding the 3D organisation of regional centromeres and mechanisms of kinetochore dynamics, including how kinetochores sense and respond to tension, are important future directions.

Cryo-EM structure of the complete inner kinetochore of the budding yeast point centromere

The point centromere of budding yeast specifies assembly of the large kinetochore complex to mediate chromatid segregation. Kinetochores comprise the centromere-associated inner kinetochore (CCAN) complex and the microtubule-binding outer kinetochore KNL1-MIS12-NDC80 (KMN) network. The budding yeast inner kinetochore also contains the DNA binding centromere-binding factor 1 (CBF1) and CBF3 complexes. We determined the cryo-electron microscopy structure of the yeast inner kinetochore assembled onto the centromere-specific centromere protein A nucleosomes (CENP-ANuc). This revealed a central CENP-ANuc with extensively unwrapped DNA ends. These free DNA duplexes bind two CCAN protomers, one of which entraps DNA topologically, positioned on the centromere DNA element I (CDEI) motif by CBF1. The two CCAN protomers are linked through CBF3 forming an arch-like configuration. With a structural mechanism for how CENP-ANuc can also be linked to KMN involving only CENP-QU, we present a model for inner kinetochore assembly onto a point centromere and how it organizes the outer kinetochore for chromosome attachment to the mitotic spindle.

Centromere/kinetochore is assembled through CENP-C oligomerization

Kinetochore is an essential protein complex required for accurate chromosome segregation. The constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN), a subcomplex of the kinetochore, associates with centromeric chromatin and provides a platform for the kinetochore assembly. The CCAN protein CENP-C is thought to be a central hub for the centromere/kinetochore organization. However, the role of CENP-C in CCAN assembly needs to be elucidated. Here, we demonstrate that both the CCAN-binding domain and the C-terminal region that includes the Cupin domain of CENP-C are necessary and sufficient for chicken CENP-C function. Structural and biochemical analyses reveal self-oligomerization of the Cupin domains of chicken and human CENP-C. We find that the CENP-C Cupin domain oligomerization is vital for CENP-C function, centromeric localization of CCAN, and centromeric chromatin organization. These results suggest that CENP-C facilitates the centromere/kinetochore assembly through its oligomerization.

Direct observation of coordinated assembly of individual native centromeric nucleosomes

Eukaryotic chromosome segregation requires the kinetochore, a megadalton-sized machine that forms on specialized centromeric chromatin containing CENP-A, a histone H3 variant. CENP-A deposition requires a chaperone protein HJURP that targets it to the centromere, but it has remained unclear whether HJURP has additional functions beyond CENP-A targeting and why high AT DNA content, which disfavors nucleosome assembly, is widely conserved at centromeres. To overcome the difficulties of studying nucleosome formation in vivo, we developed a microscopy assay that enables direct observation of de novo centromeric nucleosome recruitment and maintenance with single molecule resolution. Using this assay, we discover that CENP-A can arrive at centromeres without its dedicated centromere-specific chaperone HJURP, but stable incorporation depends on HJURP and additional DNA-binding proteins of the inner kinetochore. We also show that homopolymer AT runs in the yeast centromeres are essential for efficient CENP-A deposition. Together, our findings reveal requirements for stable nucleosome formation and provide a foundation for further studies of the assembly and dynamics of native kinetochore complexes.

FREEDA: an automated computational pipeline guides experimental testing of protein innovation by detecting positive selection

Cell biologists typically focus on conserved regions of a protein, overlooking innovations that can shape its function over evolutionary time. Computational analyses can reveal potential innovations by detecting statistical signatures of positive selection that leads to rapid accumulation of beneficial mutations. However, these approaches are not easily accessible to non-specialists, limiting their use in cell biology. Here, we present an automated computational pipeline FREEDA (Finder of Rapidly Evolving Exons in De novo Assemblies) that provides a simple graphical user interface requiring only a gene name, integrates widely used molecular evolution tools to detect positive selection, and maps results onto protein structures predicted by AlphaFold. Applying FREEDA to >100 mouse centromere proteins, we find evidence of positive selection in intrinsically disordered regions of ancient domains, suggesting innovation of essential functions. As a proof-of-principle experiment, we show innovation in centromere binding of CENP-O. Overall, we provide an accessible computational tool to guide cell biology research and apply it to experimentally demonstrate functional innovation.

Multi-site phosphorylation of yeast Mif2/CENP-C promotes inner kinetochore assembly

Kinetochores control eukaryotic chromosome segregation by connecting chromosomal centromeres to spindle microtubules. Duplication of centromeric DNA necessitates kinetochore disassembly and subsequent reassembly on nascent sisters. To search for a regulatory mechanism that controls the earliest steps of this process, we studied Mif2/CENP-C, an essential basal component of the kinetochore. We found that phosphorylation of a central region of Mif2 (Mif2-PEST) enhances inner kinetochore assembly. Eliminating Mif2-PEST phosphorylation sites progressively impairs cellular fitness. The most severe Mif2-PEST mutations are lethal in cells lacking otherwise non-essential inner kinetochore factors. These data show that multi-site phosphorylation of Mif2/CENP-C controls inner kinetochore assembly.

Unraveling the kinetochore nanostructure in Schizosaccharomyces pombe using multi-color SMLM imaging

The key to ensuring proper chromosome segregation during mitosis is the kinetochore (KT), a tightly regulated multiprotein complex that links the centromeric chromatin to the spindle microtubules and as such leads the segregation process. Understanding its architecture, function, and regulation is therefore essential. However, due to its complexity and dynamics, only its individual subcomplexes could be studied in structural detail so far. In this study, we construct a nanometer-precise in situ map of the human-like regional KT of Schizosaccharomyces pombe using multi-color single-molecule localization microscopy. We measure each protein of interest (POI) in conjunction with two references, cnp1CENP-A at the centromere and sad1 at the spindle pole. This allows us to determine cell cycle and mitotic plane, and to visualize individual centromere regions separately. We determine protein distances within the complex using Bayesian inference, establish the stoichiometry of each POI and, consequently, build an in situ KT model with unprecedented precision, providing new insights into the architecture.

Nanoscale structural organization and stoichiometry of the budding yeast kinetochore

Proper chromosome segregation is crucial for cell division. In eukaryotes, this is achieved by the kinetochore, an evolutionarily conserved multiprotein complex that physically links the DNA to spindle microtubules and takes an active role in monitoring and correcting erroneous spindle-chromosome attachments. Our mechanistic understanding of these functions and how they ensure an error-free outcome of mitosis is still limited, partly because we lack a complete understanding of the kinetochore structure in the cell. In this study, we use single-molecule localization microscopy to visualize individual kinetochore complexes in situ in budding yeast. For major kinetochore proteins, we measured their abundance and position within the metaphase kinetochore. Based on this comprehensive dataset, we propose a quantitative model of the budding yeast kinetochore. While confirming many aspects of previous reports based on bulk imaging, our results present a unifying nanoscale model of the kinetochore in budding yeast.

Structural insights into human CCAN complex assembled onto DNA

In mitosis, accurate chromosome segregation depends on kinetochores that connect centromeric chromatin to spindle microtubules. The centromeres of budding yeast, which are relatively simple, are connected to individual microtubules via a kinetochore constitutive centromere associated network (CCAN). However, the complex centromeres of human chromosomes comprise millions of DNA base pairs and attach to multiple microtubules. Here, by use of cryo-electron microscopy and functional analyses, we reveal the molecular basis of how human CCAN interacts with duplex DNA and facilitates accurate chromosome segregation. The overall structure relates to the cooperative interactions and interdependency of the constituent sub-complexes of the CCAN. The duplex DNA is topologically entrapped by human CCAN. Further, CENP-N does not bind to the RG-loop of CENP-A but to DNA in the CCAN complex. The DNA binding activity is essential for CENP-LN localization to centromere and chromosome segregation during mitosis. Thus, these analyses provide new insights into mechanisms of action underlying kinetochore assembly and function in mitosis.

Kinetochore Architecture Employs Diverse Linker Strategies Across Evolution

The assembly of a functional kinetochore on centromeric chromatin is necessary to connect chromosomes to the mitotic spindle, ensuring accurate chromosome segregation. This connecting function of the kinetochore presents multiple internal and external structural challenges. A microtubule interacting outer kinetochore and centromeric chromatin interacting inner kinetochore effectively confront forces from the external spindle and centromere, respectively. While internally, special inner kinetochore proteins, defined as “linkers,” simultaneously interact with centromeric chromatin and the outer kinetochore to enable association with the mitotic spindle. With the ability to simultaneously interact with outer kinetochore components and centromeric chromatin, linker proteins such as centromere protein (CENP)-C or CENP-T in vertebrates and, additionally CENP-QOkp1-UAme1 in yeasts, also perform the function of force propagation within the kinetochore. Recent efforts have revealed an array of linker pathways strategies to effectively recruit the largely conserved outer kinetochore. In this review, we examine these linkages used to propagate force and recruit the outer kinetochore across evolution. Further, we look at their known regulatory pathways and implications on kinetochore structural diversity and plasticity.

Structure of the human inner kinetochore bound to a centromeric CENP-A nucleosome

Kinetochores assemble onto specialized centromeric CENP-A (centromere protein A) nucleosomes (CENP-ANuc) to mediate attachments between chromosomes and the mitotic spindle. We describe cryo-electron microscopy structures of the human inner kinetochore constitutive centromere associated network (CCAN) complex bound to CENP-ANuc reconstituted onto α-satellite DNA. CCAN forms edge-on contacts with CENP-ANuc, and a linker DNA segment of the α-satellite repeat emerges from the fully wrapped end of the nucleosome to thread through the central CENP-LN channel that tightly grips the DNA. The CENP-TWSX histone-fold module further augments DNA binding and partially wraps the linker DNA in a manner reminiscent of canonical nucleosomes. Our study suggests that the topological entrapment of the linker DNA by CCAN provides a robust mechanism by which kinetochores withstand both pushing and pulling forces exerted by the mitotic spindle.

Structure of the human inner kinetochore CCAN complex and its significance for human centromere organization

Centromeres are specialized chromosome loci that seed the kinetochore, a large protein complex that effects chromosome segregation. A 16-subunit complex, the constitutive centromere associated network (CCAN), connects between the specialized centromeric chromatin, marked by the histone H3 variant CENP-A, and the spindle-binding moiety of the kinetochore. Here, we report a cryo-electron microscopy structure of human CCAN. We highlight unique features such as the pseudo GTPase CENP-M and report how a crucial CENP-C motif binds the CENP-LN complex. The CCAN structure has implications for the mechanism of specific recognition of the CENP-A nucleosome. A model consistent with our structure depicts the CENP-C-bound nucleosome as connected to the CCAN through extended, flexible regions of CENP-C. An alternative model identifies both CENP-C and CENP-N as specificity determinants but requires CENP-N to bind CENP-A in a mode distinct from the classical nucleosome octamer.

Minichromosome maintenance proteins in eukaryotic chromosome segregation

Minichromosome maintenance (Mcm) proteins are well-known for their functions in DNA replication. However, their roles in chromosome segregation are yet to be reviewed in detail. Following the discovery in 1984, a group of Mcm proteins, known as the ARS-nonspecific group consisting of Mcm13, Mcm16-19, and Mcm21-22, were characterized as bonafide kinetochore proteins and were shown to play significant roles in the kinetochore assembly and high-fidelity chromosome segregation. This review focuses on the structure, function, and evolution of this group of Mcm proteins. Our in silico analysis of the physical interactors of these proteins reveals that they share non-overlapping functions despite being copurified in biochemically stable complexes. We have discussed the contrasting results reported in the literature and experimental strategies to address them. Taken together, this review focuses on the structure-function of the ARS-nonspecific Mcm proteins and their evolutionary flexibility to maintain genome stability in various organisms.

Cdc4 phospho-degrons allow differential regulation of Ame1CENP-U protein stability across the cell cycle

Kinetochores are multi-subunit protein assemblies that link chromosomes to microtubules of the mitotic and meiotic spindle. It is still poorly understood how efficient, centromere-dependent kinetochore assembly is accomplished from hundreds of individual protein building blocks in a cell cycle-dependent manner. Here, by combining comprehensive phosphorylation analysis of native Ctf19^CCAN subunits with biochemical and functional assays in the model system budding yeast, we demonstrate that Cdk1 phosphorylation activates phospho-degrons on the essential subunit Ame1^CENP-U, which are recognized by the E3 ubiquitin ligase complex SCF-Cdc4. Gradual phosphorylation of degron motifs culminates in M-phase and targets the protein for degradation. Binding of the Mtw1^Mis12 complex shields the proximal phospho-degron, protecting kinetochore-bound Ame1 from the degradation machinery. Artificially increasing degron strength partially suppresses the temperature sensitivity of a cdc4 mutant, while overexpression of Ame1-Okp1 is toxic in SCF mutants, demonstrating the physiological importance of this mechanism. We propose that phospho-regulated clearance of excess CCAN subunits facilitates efficient centromere-dependent kinetochore assembly. Our results suggest a novel strategy for how phospho-degrons can be used to regulate the assembly of multi-subunit complexes.

Ctf3/CENP-I provides a docking site for the desumoylase Ulp2 at the kinetochore

The step-by-step process of chromosome segregation defines the stages of the cell cycle. In eukaryotes, signals controlling these steps converge upon the kinetochore, a multiprotein assembly that connects spindle microtubules to chromosomal centromeres. Kinetochores control and adapt to major chromosomal transactions, including replication of centromeric DNA, biorientation of sister centromeres on the metaphase spindle, and transit of sister chromatids into daughter cells during anaphase. Although the mechanisms that ensure tight microtubule coupling at anaphase are at least partly understood, kinetochore adaptations that support other cell cycle transitions are not. We report here a mechanism that enables regulated control of kinetochore sumoylation. A conserved surface of the Ctf3/CENP-I kinetochore protein provides a binding site for Ulp2, the nuclear enzyme that removes SUMO chains from modified substrates. Ctf3 mutations that disable Ulp2 recruitment cause elevated inner kinetochore sumoylation and defective chromosome segregation. The location of the site within the assembled kinetochore suggests coordination between sumoylation and other cell cycle–regulated processes.

Assembly principles and stoichiometry of a complete human kinetochore module

Centromeres are epigenetically determined chromosomal loci that seed kinetochore assembly to promote chromosome segregation during cell division. CENP-A, a centromere-specific histone H3 variant, establishes the foundations for centromere epigenetic memory and kinetochore assembly. It recruits the constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN), which in turn assembles the microtubule-binding interface. How the specific organization of centromeric chromatin relates to kinetochore assembly and to centromere identity through cell division remains conjectural. Here, we break new ground by reconstituting a functional full-length version of CENP-C, the largest human CCAN subunit and a blueprint of kinetochore assembly. We show that full-length CENP-C, a dimer, binds stably to two nucleosomes and permits further assembly of all other kinetochore subunits in vitro with relative ratios closely matching those of endogenous human kinetochores. Our results imply that human kinetochores emerge from clustering multiple copies of a fundamental module and may have important implications for transgenerational inheritance of centromeric chromatin.

Cell-cycle phospho-regulation of the kinetochore

The kinetochore is a mega-dalton protein assembly that forms within centromeric regions of chromosomes and directs their segregation during cell division. Here we review cell cycle-mediated phosphorylation events at the kinetochore, with a focus on the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the insight gained from forced associations of kinases and phosphatases. The point centromeres found in the budding yeast S. cerevisiae are one of the simplest such structures found in eukaryotes. The S. cerevisiae kinetochore comprises a single nucleosome, containing a centromere-specific H3 variant Cse4^CENP-A, bound to a set of kinetochore proteins that connect to a single microtubule. Despite the simplicity of the budding yeast kinetochore, the proteins are mostly homologous with their mammalian counterparts. In some cases, human proteins can complement their yeast orthologs. Like its mammalian equivalent, the regulation of the budding yeast kinetochore is complex: integrating signals from the cell cycle, checkpoints, error correction, and stress pathways. The regulatory signals from these diverse pathways are integrated at the kinetochore by post-translational modifications, notably phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, to control chromosome segregation. Here we highlight the complex interplay between the activity of the different cell-cycle kinases and phosphatases at the kinetochore, emphasizing how much more we have to understand this essential structure.

The Elusive Structure of Centro-Chromatin: Molecular Order or Dynamic Heterogenetity?

The centromere is an essential chromatin domain required for kinetochore recruitment and chromosome segregation in eukaryotes. To perform this role, centro-chromatin adopts a unique structure that provides access to kinetochore proteins and maintains stability under tension during mitosis. This is achieved by the presence of nucleosomes containing the H3 variant CENP-A, which also acts as the epigenetic mark defining the centromere. In this review, we discuss the role of CENP-A on the structure and dynamics of centromeric chromatin. We further discuss the impact of the CENP-A binding proteins CENP-C, CENP-N, and CENP-B on modulating centro-chromatin structure. Based on these findings we provide an overview of the higher order structure of the centromere.

The novel interaction mode among centromere sub-complex CENP-O/P/U/Q/R

The kinetochore is essential for the accurate segregation of sister chromosome in the eukaryote cell. Among the kinetochore subunits, five proteins CENP-O/P/U/Q/R form a stable complex, referred to as CENP-O class, and are required for proper kinetochore function. Although the function and structure of yeast COMA complex (CENP-O/P/U/Q homologs) have been revealed extensively, the assembly mechanism and detail interactions among human CENP-O class are significantly different and remain largely unclear. Here, we identified the fragment (residues 241-360) of CENP-U and the C-terminal half of CENP-Q are essential to form a hetero-complex and interact with CENP-O/P sub-complex in vitro. We for the first time showed that CENP-R does not directly interact with CENP-O/P in vitro, but indeed interact with CENP-U and CENP-Q. Furthermore, both the N- and C-terminus of CENP-R are required for the interaction with CENP-U and CENP-Q. Our research pinpointed a novel interaction pattern that might shed light on the assembly mechanism of vertebrate CENP-O class.

CENP-A nucleosome-a chromatin-embedded pedestal for the centromere: lessons learned from structural biology

The centromere is a chromosome locus that directs equal segregation of chromosomes during cell division. A nucleosome containing the histone H3 variant CENP-A epigenetically defines the centromere. Here, we summarize findings from recent structural biology studies, including several CryoEM structures, that contributed to elucidate specific features of the CENP-A nucleosome and molecular determinants of its interactions with CENP-C and CENP-N, the only two centromere proteins that directly bind to it. Based on those findings, we propose a role of the CENP-A nucleosome in the organization of centromeric chromatin beyond binding centromeric proteins.

The Proteomic Landscape of Centromeric Chromatin Reveals an Essential Role for the Ctf19CCAN Complex in Meiotic Kinetochore Assembly

Kinetochores direct chromosome segregation in mitosis and meiosis. Faithful gamete formation through meiosis requires that kinetochores take on new functions that impact homolog pairing, recombination, and the orientation of kinetochore attachment to microtubules in meiosis I. Using an unbiased proteomics pipeline, we determined the composition of centromeric chromatin and kinetochores at distinct cell-cycle stages, revealing extensive reorganization of kinetochores during meiosis. The data uncover a network of meiotic chromosome axis and recombination proteins that bind to centromeres in the absence of the microtubule-binding outer kinetochore sub-complexes during meiotic prophase. We show that the Ctf19c^CCAN inner kinetochore complex is essential for kinetochore organization in meiosis. Our functional analyses identify a Ctf19c^CCAN-dependent kinetochore assembly pathway that is dispensable for mitotic growth but becomes critical upon meiotic entry. Therefore, changes in kinetochore composition and a distinct assembly pathway specialize meiotic kinetochores for successful gametogenesis.

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The composition of meiotic centromeres and kinetochores is revealed

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Kinetochores undergo extensive changes between meiotic prophase I and metaphase I

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The Ctf19^CCAN orchestrates meiotic kinetochore specialization

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A Ctf19^CCAN-directed kinetochore assembly pathway is uniquely critical in meiosis

BUB1 and CENP-U, Primed by CDK1, Are the Main PLK1 Kinetochore Receptors in Mitosis

Reflecting its pleiotropic functions, Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) localizes to various sub-cellular structures during mitosis. At kinetochores, PLK1 contributes to microtubule attachments and mitotic checkpoint signaling. Previous studies identified a wealth of potential PLK1 receptors at kinetochores, as well as requirements for various mitotic kinases, including BUB1, Aurora B, and PLK1 itself. Here, we combine ectopic localization, in vitro reconstitution, and kinetochore localization studies to demonstrate that most and likely all of the PLK1 is recruited through BUB1 in the outer kinetochore and centromeric protein U (CENP-U) in the inner kinetochore. BUB1 and CENP-U share a constellation of sequence motifs consisting of a putative PP2A-docking motif and two neighboring PLK1-docking sites, which, contingent on priming phosphorylation by cyclin-dependent kinase 1 and PLK1 itself, bind PLK1 and promote its dimerization. Our results rationalize previous observations and describe a unifying mechanism for recruitment of PLK1 to human kinetochores.

Crystal structure of the Cenp-HIKHead-TW sub-module of the inner kinetochore CCAN complex

Kinetochores are large multi-subunit complexes that attach centromeric chromatin to microtubules of the mitotic spindle, enabling sister chromatid segregation in mitosis. The inner kinetochore constitutive centromere associated network (CCAN) complex assembles onto the centromere-specific Cenp-A nucleosome (Cenp-ANuc), thereby coupling the centromere to the microtubule-binding outer kinetochore. CCAN is a conserved 14-16 subunit complex composed of discrete modules. Here, we determined the crystal structure of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Cenp-HIKHead-TW sub-module, revealing how Cenp-HIK and Cenp-TW interact at the conserved Cenp-HIKHead-Cenp-TW interface. A major interface is formed by the C-terminal anti-parallel α-helices of the histone fold extension (HFE) of the Cenp-T histone fold domain (HFD) combining with α-helix H3 of Cenp-K to create a compact three α-helical bundle. We fitted the Cenp-HIKHead-TW sub-module to the previously determined cryo-EM map of the S. cerevisiae CCAN-Cenp-ANuc complex. This showed that the HEAT repeat domain of Cenp-IHead and C-terminal HFD of Cenp-T of the Cenp-HIKHead-TW sub-module interact with the nucleosome DNA gyre at a site close to the Cenp-ANuc dyad axis. Our structure provides a framework for understanding how Cenp-T links centromeric Cenp-ANuc to the outer kinetochore through its HFD and N-terminal Ndc80-binding motif, respectively.

Loss of inner kinetochore genes is associated with the transition to an unconventional point centromere in budding yeast

Background

The genomic sequences of centromeres, as well as the set of proteins that recognize and interact with centromeres, are known to quickly diverge between lineages potentially contributing to post-zygotic reproductive isolation. However, the actual sequence of events and processes involved in the divergence of the kinetochore machinery is not known. The patterns of gene loss that occur during evolution concomitant with phenotypic changes have been used to understand the timing and order of molecular changes.

Methods

I screened the high-quality genomes of twenty budding yeast species for the presence of well-studied kinetochore genes. Based on the conserved gene order and complete genome assemblies, I identified gene loss events. Subsequently, I searched the intergenic regions to identify any un-annotated genes or gene remnants to obtain additional evidence of gene loss.

Results

My analysis identified the loss of four genes (NKP1, NKP2, CENPL/IML3 and CENPN/CHL4) of the inner kinetochore constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN/also known as CTF19 complex in yeast) in both the Naumovozyma species for which genome assemblies are available. Surprisingly, this collective loss of four genes of the CCAN/CTF19 complex coincides with the emergence of unconventional centromeres in N. castellii and N. dairenensis. My study suggests a tentative link between the emergence of unconventional point centromeres and the turnover of kinetochore genes in budding yeast.

A dCas9-Based System Identifies a Central Role for Ctf19 in Kinetochore-Derived Suppression of Meiotic Recombination

In meiosis, crossover (CO) formation between homologous chromosomes is essential for faithful segregation. However, misplaced meiotic recombination can have catastrophic consequences on genome stability. Within pericentromeres, COs are associated with meiotic chromosome missegregation. In organisms ranging from yeast to humans, pericentromeric COs are repressed. We previously identified a role for the kinetochore-associated Ctf19 complex (Ctf19c) in pericentromeric CO suppression. Here, we develop a dCas9/CRISPR-based system that allows ectopic targeting of Ctf19c-subunits. Using this approach, we query sufficiency in meiotic CO suppression, and identify Ctf19 as a mediator of kinetochore-associated CO control. The effect of Ctf19 is encoded in its NH2-terminal tail, and depends on residues important for the recruitment of the Scc2-Scc4 cohesin regulator. This work provides insight into kinetochore-derived control of meiotic recombination. We establish an experimental platform to investigate and manipulate meiotic CO control. This platform can easily be adapted in order to investigate other aspects of chromosome biology.

C-Terminal Motifs of the MTW1 Complex Cooperatively Stabilize Outer Kinetochore Assembly in Budding Yeast

Kinetochores are macromolecular protein assemblies at centromeres that mediate accurate chromosome segregation during cell division. The outer kinetochore KNL1^SPC105, MIS12^MTW1, and NDC80^NDC80 complexes assemble the KMN network, which harbors the sites of microtubule binding and spindle assembly checkpoint signaling. The buildup of the KMN network that transmits microtubule pulling forces to budding yeast point centromeres is poorly understood. Here, we identify 225 inter-protein crosslinks by mass spectrometry on KMN complexes isolated from Saccharomyces cerevisiae that delineate the KMN subunit connectivity for outer kinetochore assembly. C-Terminal motifs of Nsl1 and Mtw1 recruit the SPC105 complex through Kre28, and both motifs aid tethering of the NDC80 complex by the previously reported Dsn1 C terminus. We show that a hub of three C-terminal MTW1 subunit motifs mediates the cooperative stabilization of the KMN network, which is augmented by a direct NDC80-SPC105 association.

Polo kinase recruitment via the constitutive centromere-associated network at the kinetochore elevates centromeric RNA

The kinetochore, a multi-protein complex assembled on centromeres, is essential to segregate chromosomes during cell division. Deficiencies in kinetochore function can lead to chromosomal instability and aneuploidy-a hallmark of cancer cells. Kinetochore function is controlled by recruitment of regulatory proteins, many of which have been documented, however their function often remains uncharacterized and many are yet to be identified. To identify candidates of kinetochore regulation we used a proteome-wide protein association strategy in budding yeast and detected many proteins that are involved in post-translational modifications such as kinases, phosphatases and histone modifiers. We focused on the Polo-like kinase, Cdc5, and interrogated which cellular components were sensitive to constitutive Cdc5 localization. The kinetochore is particularly sensitive to constitutive Cdc5 kinase activity. Targeting Cdc5 to different kinetochore subcomplexes produced diverse phenotypes, consistent with multiple distinct functions at the kinetochore. We show that targeting Cdc5 to the inner kinetochore, the constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN), increases the levels of centromeric RNA via an SPT4 dependent mechanism.

The centromere comes into focus: from CENP-A nucleosomes to kinetochore connections with the spindle

Eukaryotic chromosome segregation relies upon specific connections from DNA to the microtubule-based spindle that forms at cell division. The chromosomal locus that directs this process is the centromere, where a structure called the kinetochore forms upon entry into mitosis. Recent crystallography and single-particle electron microscopy have provided unprecedented high-resolution views of the molecular complexes involved in this process. The centromere is epigenetically specified by nucleosomes harbouring a histone H3 variant, CENP-A, and we review recent progress on how it differentiates centromeric chromatin from the rest of the chromosome, the biochemical pathway that mediates its assembly and how two non-histone components of the centromere specifically recognize CENP-A nucleosomes. The core centromeric nucleosome complex (CCNC) is required to recruit a 16-subunit complex termed the constitutive centromere associated network (CCAN), and we highlight recent structures reported of the budding yeast CCAN. Finally, the structures of multiple modular sub-complexes of the kinetochore have been solved at near-atomic resolution, providing insight into how connections are made to the CCAN on one end and to the spindle microtubules on the other. One can now build molecular models from the DNA through to the physical connections to microtubules.

Auto-inhibition of Mif2/CENP-C ensures centromere-dependent kinetochore assembly in budding yeast

Kinetochores are chromatin‐bound multi‐protein complexes that allow high‐fidelity chromosome segregation during mitosis and meiosis. Kinetochore assembly is exclusively initiated at chromatin containing Cse4/CENP‐A nucleosomes. The molecular mechanisms ensuring that subcomplexes assemble efficiently into kinetochores only at centromeres, but not anywhere else, are incompletely understood. Here, we combine biochemical and genetic experiments to demonstrate that auto‐inhibition of the conserved kinetochore subunit Mif2/CENP‐C contributes to preventing unscheduled kinetochore assembly in budding yeast cells. We show that wild‐type Mif2 is attenuated in its ability to bind a key downstream component in the assembly pathway, the Mtw1 complex, and that addition of Cse4 nucleosomes overcomes this inhibition. By exchanging the N‐terminus of Mif2 with its functional counterpart from Ame1/CENP‐U, we have created a Mif2 mutant which bypasses the Cse4 requirement for Mtw1 binding in vitro, thereby shortcutting kinetochore assembly. Expression of this Mif2 mutant in cells leads to mis‐localization of the Mtw1 complex and causes pronounced chromosome segregation defects. We propose that auto‐inhibition of Mif2/CENP‐C constitutes a key concept underlying the molecular logic of kinetochore assembly.

Dbf4-Dependent Kinase (DDK)-Mediated Proteolysis of CENP-A Prevents Mislocalization of CENP-A in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The evolutionarily conserved centromeric histone H3 variant (Cse4 in budding yeast, CENP-A in humans) is essential for faithful chromosome segregation. Mislocalization of CENP-A to non-centromeric chromatin contributes to chromosomal instability (CIN) in yeast, fly, and human cells and CENP-A is highly expressed and mislocalized in cancers. Defining mechanisms that prevent mislocalization of CENP-A is an area of active investigation. Ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis of overexpressed Cse4 (GALCSE4) by E3 ubiquitin ligases such as Psh1 prevents mislocalization of Cse4, and psh1 Δ strains display synthetic dosage lethality (SDL) with GALCSE4 We previously performed a genome-wide screen and identified five alleles of CDC7 and DBF4 that encode the Dbf4-dependent kinase (DDK) complex, which regulates DNA replication initiation, among the top twelve hits that displayed SDL with GALCSE4 We determined that cdc7 -7 strains exhibit defects in ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis of Cse4 and show mislocalization of Cse4 Mutation of MCM5 (mcm5 -bob1) bypasses the requirement of Cdc7 for replication initiation and rescues replication defects in a cdc7 -7 strain. We determined that mcm5 -bob1 does not rescue the SDL and defects in proteolysis of GALCSE4 in a cdc7 -7 strain, suggesting a DNA replication-independent role for Cdc7 in Cse4 proteolysis. The SDL phenotype, defects in ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, and the mislocalization pattern of Cse4 in a cdc7 -7 psh1 Δ strain were similar to that of cdc7 -7 and psh1 Δ strains, suggesting that Cdc7 regulates Cse4 in a pathway that overlaps with Psh1 Our results define a DNA replication initiation-independent role of DDK as a regulator of Psh1-mediated proteolysis of Cse4 to prevent mislocalization of Cse4.

Cryoelectron Microscopy Structure of a Yeast Centromeric Nucleosome at 2.7 Å Resolution

Kinetochores mediate chromosome segregation during cell division. They assemble on centromeric nucleosomes and capture spindle microtubules. In budding yeast, a kinetochore links a single nucleosome, containing the histone variant Cse4CENP-A instead of H3, with a single microtubule. Conservation of most kinetochore components from yeast to metazoans suggests that the yeast kinetochore represents a module of the more complex metazoan arrangements. We describe here a streamlined protocol for reconstituting a yeast centromeric nucleosome and a systematic exploration of cryo-grid preparation. These developments allowed us to obtain a high-resolution cryoelectron microscopy reconstruction. As suggested by previous work, fewer base pairs are in tight association with the histone octamer than there are in canonical nucleosomes. Weak binding of the end DNA sequences may contribute to specific recognition by other inner kinetochore components. The centromeric nucleosome structure and the strategies we describe will facilitate studies of many other aspects of kinetochore assembly and chromatin biochemistry.

CenH3-Independent Kinetochore Assembly in Lepidoptera Requires CCAN, Including CENP-T

Accurate chromosome segregation requires assembly of the multiprotein kinetochore complex at centromeres. In most eukaryotes, kinetochore assembly is primed by the histone H3 variant CenH3 (also called CENP-A), which physically interacts with components of the inner kinetochore constitutive centromere-associated network (CCAN). Unexpectedly, regarding its critical function, previous work identified that select eukaryotic lineages, including several insects, have lost CenH3 while having retained homologs of the CCAN. These findings imply alternative CCAN assembly pathways in these organisms that function in CenH3-independent manners. Here we study the composition and assembly of CenH3-deficient kinetochores of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths). We show that lepidopteran kinetochores consist of previously identified CCAN homologs as well as additional components, including a divergent CENP-T homolog, that are required for accurate mitotic progression. Our study focuses on CENP-T, which we found to be sufficient to recruit the Mis12 and Ndc80 outer kinetochore complexes. In addition, CRISPR-mediated gene editing in Bombyx mori establishes an essential function of CENP-T in vivo. Finally, the retention of CENP-T and additional CCAN homologs in other independently derived CenH3-deficient insects indicates a conserved mechanism of kinetochore assembly between these lineages. Our study provides the first functional insights into CCAN-based kinetochore assembly pathways that function independently of CenH3, contributing to the emerging picture of an unexpected plasticity to build a kinetochore.

The ATAD2/ANCCA homolog Yta7 cooperates with Scm3HJURP to deposit Cse4CENP-A at the centromere in yeast

The AAA⁺ ATPase and bromodomain factor ATAD2/ANCCA is overexpressed in many types of cancer, but how it contributes to tumorigenesis is not understood. Here, we report that the Saccharomyces cerevisiae homolog Yta7^ATAD2 is a deposition factor for the centromeric histone H3 variant Cse4^CENP-A at the centromere in yeast. Yta7^ATAD2 regulates the levels of centromeric Cse4^CENP-A in that yta7∆ causes reduced Cse4^CENP-A deposition, whereas YTA7 overexpression causes increased Cse4^CENP-A deposition. Yta7^ATAD2 coimmunoprecipitates with Cse4^CENP-A and is associated with the centromere, arguing for a direct role of Yta7^ATAD2 in Cse4^CENP-A deposition. Furthermore, increasing centromeric Cse4^CENP-A levels by YTA7 overexpression requires the activity of Scm3^HJURP, the centromeric nucleosome assembly factor. Importantly, Yta7^ATAD2 interacts in vivo with Scm3^HJURP, indicating that Yta7^ATAD2 is a cochaperone for Scm3^HJURP The absence of Yta7 causes defects in growth and chromosome segregation with mutations in components of the inner kinetochore (CTF19/CCAN, Mif2^CENP-C, Cbf1). Since Yta7^ATAD2 is an AAA⁺ ATPase and potential hexameric unfoldase, our results suggest that it may unfold the Cse4^CENP-A histone and hand it over to Scm3^HJURP for subsequent deposition in the centromeric nucleosome. Furthermore, our findings suggest that ATAD2 overexpression may enhance malignant transformation in humans by misregulating centromeric CENP-A levels, thus leading to defects in kinetochore assembly and chromosome segregation.

Structural insights into the intramolecular interactions of centromere protein CENP-I

In mitosis, the accurate segregation of sister chromosomes relies on kinetochore, a multiple subunits complex assembled on centromere of each sister chromosome. As a core component of inner kinetochore, CENP-I plays important functions to mediate kinetochore assembly and supports the faithful chromosome segregation. The structures of the N-terminus and C-terminus of CENP-I homologs in complex with CENP-H/K have been reported, respectively. Unfortunately, the intramolecular interactions of CENP-I are poorly understood, and how CENP-I interacts with CENP-M remains unknown. Here, we verified a unique helix α11, which forms the intramolecular interactions with N-terminal HEAT repeats in fungal CENP-I. Deletion of the helix α11 exposed the hydrophobic surface and resulted in the in vitro protein aggregation of N-terminal HEAT repeats of fungal CENP-I. The corresponding helix and its intramolecular interaction are highly conserved in human CENP-I. Deletion of the corresponding helix in human CENP-I dramatically reduced the functional activity to interact with CENP-H and CENP-M. Mutations of the conserved residues on the helix in human CENP-I significantly weakened the binding to CENP-M, but not CENP-H, in HeLa cells. Therefore, our findings for the first time unveiled a conserved helix of CENP-I, which is important for the intramolecular interaction and function, and would be helpful for understanding the structure basis of how CENP-I mediates the kinetochore assembly during cell cycle and mitosis.

Investigating eukaryotic cells with cryo-ET

The interior of eukaryotic cells is mysterious. How do the large communities of macromolecular machines interact with each other? How do the structures and positions of these nanoscopic entities respond to new stimuli? Questions like these can now be answered with the help of a method called electron cryotomography (cryo-ET). Cryo-ET will ultimately reveal the inner workings of a cell at the protein, secondary structure, and perhaps even side-chain levels. Combined with genetic or pharmacological perturbation, cryo-ET will allow us to answer previously unimaginable questions, such as how structure, biochemistry, and forces are related in situ. Because it bridges structural biology and cell biology, cryo-ET is indispensable for structural cell biology-the study of the 3-D macromolecular structure of cells. Here we discuss some of the key ideas, strategies, auxiliary techniques, and innovations that an aspiring structural cell biologist will consider when planning to ask bold questions.

Recruitment of the Ulp2 protease to the inner kinetochore prevents its hyper-sumoylation to ensure accurate chromosome segregation

The kinetochore is the central molecular machine that drives chromosome segregation in all eukaryotes. Genetic studies have suggested that protein sumoylation plays a role in regulating the inner kinetochore; however, the mechanism remains elusive. Here, we show that Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ulp2, an evolutionarily conserved SUMO specific protease, contains a previously uncharacterized kinetochore-targeting motif that recruits Ulp2 to the kinetochore via the Ctf3CENP-I-Mcm16CENP-H-Mcm22CENP-K complex (CMM). Once recruited, Ulp2 selectively targets multiple subunits of the kinetochore, specifically the Constitutive Centromere-Associated Network (CCAN), via its SUMO-interacting motif (SIM). Mutations that impair the kinetochore recruitment of Ulp2 or its binding to SUMO result in an elevated rate of chromosome loss, while mutations that affect both result in a synergistic increase of chromosome loss rate, hyper-sensitivity to DNA replication stress, along with a dramatic accumulation of hyper-sumoylated CCAN. Notably, sumoylation of CCAN occurs at the kinetochore and is perturbed by DNA replication stress. These results indicate that Ulp2 utilizes its dual substrate recognition to prevent hyper-sumoylation of CCAN, ensuring accurate chromosome segregation during cell division.

Structure of the Centromere Binding Factor 3 Complex from Kluyveromyces lactis

Kinetochores are the multiprotein complexes that link chromosomal centromeres to mitotic-spindle microtubules. Budding yeast centromeres comprise three sequential "centromere-determining elements", CDEI, II, and III. CDEI (8 bp) and CDEIII (∼25 bp) are conserved between Kluyveromyces lactis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but CDEII in the former is twice as long (160 bp) as CDEII in the latter (80 bp). The CBF3 complex recognizes CDEIII and is required for assembly of a centromeric nucleosome, which in turn recruits other kinetochore components. To understand differences in centromeric nucleosome assembly between K. lactis and S. cerevisiae, we determined the structure of a K. lactis CBF3 complex by electron cryomicroscopy at ∼4 Å resolution and compared it with published structures of S. cerevisiae CBF3. We show differences in the pose of Ndc10 and discuss potential models of the K. lactis centromeric nucleosome that account for the extended CDEII length.

Structure of the inner kinetochore CCAN complex assembled onto a centromeric nucleosome

In eukaryotes, accurate chromosome segregation in mitosis and meiosis maintains genome stability and prevents aneuploidy. Kinetochores are large protein complexes that, by assembling onto specialized Cenp-A nucleosomes1,2, function to connect centromeric chromatin to microtubules of the mitotic spindle3,4. Whereas the centromeres of vertebrate chromosomes comprise millions of DNA base pairs and attach to multiple microtubules, the simple point centromeres of budding yeast are connected to individual microtubules5,6. All 16 budding yeast chromosomes assemble complete kinetochores using a single Cenp-A nucleosome (Cenp-ANuc), each of which is perfectly centred on its cognate centromere7-9. The inner and outer kinetochore modules are responsible for interacting with centromeric chromatin and microtubules, respectively. Here we describe the cryo-electron microscopy structure of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae inner kinetochore module, the constitutive centromere associated network (CCAN) complex, assembled onto a Cenp-A nucleosome (CCAN-Cenp-ANuc). The structure explains the interdependency of the constituent subcomplexes of CCAN and shows how the Y-shaped opening of CCAN accommodates Cenp-ANuc to enable specific CCAN subunits to contact the nucleosomal DNA and histone subunits. Interactions with the unwrapped DNA duplex at the two termini of Cenp-ANuc are mediated predominantly by a DNA-binding groove in the Cenp-L-Cenp-N subcomplex. Disruption of these interactions impairs assembly of CCAN onto Cenp-ANuc. Our data indicate a mechanism of Cenp-A nucleosome recognition by CCAN and how CCAN acts as a platform for assembly of the outer kinetochore to link centromeres to the mitotic spindle for chromosome segregation.

Enrichment of Aurora B kinase at the inner kinetochore controls outer kinetochore assembly

Outer kinetochore assembly enables chromosome attachment to microtubules and spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) signaling in mitosis. Aurora B kinase controls kinetochore assembly by phosphorylating the Mis12 complex (Mis12C) subunit Dsn1. Current models propose Dsn1 phosphorylation relieves autoinhibition, allowing Mis12C binding to inner kinetochore component CENP-C. Using Xenopus laevis egg extracts and biochemical reconstitution, we found that autoinhibition of the Mis12C by Dsn1 impedes its phosphorylation by Aurora B. Our data indicate that the INCENP central region increases Dsn1 phosphorylation by enriching Aurora B at inner kinetochores, close to CENP-C. Furthermore, centromere-bound CENP-C does not exchange in mitosis, and CENP-C binding to the Mis12C dramatically increases Dsn1 phosphorylation by Aurora B. We propose that the coincidence of Aurora B and CENP-C at inner kinetochores ensures the fidelity of kinetochore assembly. We also found that the central region is required for the SAC beyond its role in kinetochore assembly, suggesting that kinetochore enrichment of Aurora B promotes the phosphorylation of other kinetochore substrates.

Structure of the Human Core Centromeric Nucleosome Complex

Centromeric nucleosomes are at the interface of the chromosome and the kinetochore that connects to spindle microtubules in mitosis. The core centromeric nucleosome complex (CCNC) harbors the histone H3 variant, CENP-A, and its binding proteins, CENP-C (through its central domain; CD) and CENP-N (through its N-terminal domain; NT). CENP-C can engage nucleosomes through two domains: the CD and the CENP-C motif (CM). CENP-CCD is part of the CCNC by virtue of its high specificity for CENP-A nucleosomes and ability to stabilize CENP-A at the centromere. CENP-CCM is thought to engage a neighboring nucleosome, either one containing conventional H3 or CENP-A, and a crystal structure of a nucleosome complex containing two copies of CENP-CCM was reported. Recent structures containing a single copy of CENP-NNT bound to the CENP-A nucleosome in the absence of CENP-C were reported. Here, we find that one copy of CENP-N is lost for every two copies of CENP-C on centromeric chromatin just prior to kinetochore formation. We present the structures of symmetric and asymmetric forms of the CCNC that vary in CENP-N stoichiometry. Our structures explain how the central domain of CENP-C achieves its high specificity for CENP-A nucleosomes and how CENP-C and CENP-N sandwich the histone H4 tail. The natural centromeric DNA path in our structures corresponds to symmetric surfaces for CCNC assembly, deviating from what is observed in prior structures using artificial sequences. At mitosis, we propose that CCNC asymmetry accommodates its asymmetric connections at the chromosome/kinetochore interface. VIDEO ABSTRACT.

The structure of the yeast Ctf3 complex

Kinetochores are the chromosomal attachment points for spindle microtubules. They are also signaling hubs that control major cell cycle transitions and coordinate chromosome folding. Most well-studied eukaryotes rely on a conserved set of factors, which are divided among two loosely-defined groups, for these functions. Outer kinetochore proteins contact microtubules or regulate this contact directly. Inner kinetochore proteins designate the kinetochore assembly site by recognizing a specialized nucleosome containing the H3 variant Cse4/CENP-A. We previously determined the structure, resolved by cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), of the yeast Ctf19 complex (Ctf19c, homologous to the vertebrate CCAN), providing a high-resolution view of inner kinetochore architecture (Hinshaw and Harrison, 2019). We now extend these observations by reporting a near-atomic model of the Ctf3 complex, the outermost Ctf19c sub-assembly seen in our original cryo-EM density. The model is sufficiently well-determined by the new data to enable molecular interpretation of Ctf3 recruitment and function.

Dissecting the mechanisms of cell division

Cell division is a highly regulated and carefully orchestrated process. Understanding the mechanisms that promote proper cell division is an important step toward unraveling important questions in cell biology and human health. Early studies seeking to dissect the mechanisms of cell division used classical genetics approaches to identify genes involved in mitosis and deployed biochemical approaches to isolate and identify proteins critical for cell division. These studies underscored that post-translational modifications and cyclin-kinase complexes play roles at the heart of the cell division program. Modern approaches for examining the mechanisms of cell division, including the use of high-throughput methods to study the effects of RNAi, cDNA, and chemical libraries, have evolved to encompass a larger biological and chemical space. Here, we outline some of the classical studies that established a foundation for the field and provide an overview of recent approaches that have advanced the study of cell division.