Cytoskeleton Storms, Polarized Actin Cortex, and Protein Liquids
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Membrane-Proximal F-Actin Restricts Local Membrane Protrusions and Directs Cell Migration
Bisaria et al. | Meyer Lab | Science
Global F-actin concentrations are highest at the front of migrating cells where actin-based protrusions push the membrane forward. However, subpopulations of F-actin may be performing opposing functions to achieve directed cell migration. Here, the Meyer lab develops a probe that selectively illuminates the cell cortex in order to visualize membrane-proximal actin (MPA) independently of actin protrusions. The authors discover that MPA levels are lowest toward the front of the cell despite an overall enrichment of F-actin in this region. Polarized MPA density likely directs cell migration by regulating membrane tension.
Video
The Gatlin Lab captures a stunning video of a “cytoskeleton storm” using microfluidics and photo-patterning.
Read the publication utilizing this methodology in the Journal Club Picks section below.
Journal Club Picks (find us in the methods section)
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