A novel mechanism of actin filament processive capping by formin: solution of the rotation paradox

J Cell Biol. 2005 Sep 12;170(6):889-93. doi: 10.1083/jcb.200504156.

Abstract

The FH2 domains of formin family proteins act as processive cappers of actin filaments. Previously suggested stair-stepping mechanisms of processive capping imply that a formin cap rotates persistently in one direction with respect to the filament. This challenges the formin-mediated mechanism of intracellular cable formation. We suggest a novel scenario of processive capping that is driven by developing and relaxing torsion elastic stresses. Based on the recently discovered crystal structure of an FH2-actin complex, we propose a second mode of processive capping-the screw mode. Within the screw mode, the formin dimer rotates with respect to the actin filament in the direction opposite to that generated by the stair-stepping mode so that a combination of the two modes prevents persistent torsion strain accumulation. We determine an optimal regime of processive capping, whose essence is a periodic switch between the stair-stepping and screw modes. In this regime, elastic energy does not exceed feasible values, and supercoiling of actin filaments is prevented.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Actin Cytoskeleton / chemistry*
  • Actin Cytoskeleton / genetics
  • Actin Cytoskeleton / metabolism*
  • Actins / metabolism
  • Dimerization
  • Elasticity
  • Fetal Proteins
  • Formins
  • Microfilament Proteins*
  • Models, Biological
  • Nuclear Proteins
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary
  • Rotation*

Substances

  • Actins
  • Fetal Proteins
  • Formins
  • Microfilament Proteins
  • Nuclear Proteins