2014/11/18

Structure of a protein interaction key for microtubule elongation

Cell division involves the segregation of the genetic material into the daughter cells that, when not properly controlled, may produce aberrant chromosomes and lead to cancer. Microtubule elongation plays a key role in the machine that regulates the distribution of the genetic material, and this elongation is promoted by the association of two proteins: XTACC3 and XMAP125. The way these two proteins interact has been characterized by an integrated structural biology approach led by groups from the Spanish National Cancer Center, the Centre for Genomic Regulation, and the University of Copenhaguen, with the collaboration from research institutions across Europe, including CIC bioGUNE.

MultiAngle Laser Light Scattering, and other experimental measurements, showed that the two proteins interact with a 1:2 molar ratio through terminal domains that associate to form a coiled-coil helical structure. This structure provides a new therapeutic strategy against cancer by targeting this key protein-protein interaction.

Link to the published article here