Dortmund, Germany – Scientists at the Max Planck Institute of molecular Physiology have discovered how a coordinated ”dance” of proteins governs cell movement by precisely controlling the breakdown of actin filaments, the structural components that enable cells to migrate and change shape. The findings, published today, reveal a multi-step process involving the protein trio coronin, cofilin, and AIP1, offering potential new avenues for understanding and treating diseases linked to cellular dysfunction.
Cellular movement is basic to life, essential for processes ranging from embryonic progress and immune responses to wound healing and cancer metastasis.Disruptions in this process can lead to a variety of health problems. Researchers have long known that actin filaments are key to cell motility, but the precise mechanisms regulating their disassembly – a crucial step in allowing cells to move – remained elusive.This new research illuminates that process, showing how coronin initiates the breakdown, cofilin drives it forward, and AIP1 ensures efficient completion.
The team visualized this process, observing how coronin first binds to actin filaments, triggering a conformational change and preparing them for disassembly. Cofilin then steps in to sever the actin strands, and AIP1 stabilizes the broken fragments, preventing them from reassembling prematurely. This sequential action, likened to a carefully choreographed dance, ensures that actin filaments are broken down in a controlled manner, allowing cells to remodel their internal structure and move effectively.
“we were surprised to see how elegantly these proteins work together,” said Dr. [Name not provided in source], lead researcher at the Max Planck Institute. “Each protein has a specific role, and the timing of their interactions is critical for maintaining cellular dynamics.”
The research utilized advanced imaging techniques to observe the protein interactions in real-time, providing unprecedented insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying cell movement. The findings are expected to have broad implications for understanding a range of biological processes and diseases, including cancer, where uncontrolled cell migration plays a significant role. Further research will focus on exploring how these proteins are regulated and how their dysfunction contributes to disease development.
Source: Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology
copyright: Max planck Institute of Molecular Physiology
