Arp2/3 complex and actin dynamics are required for actin-based mitochondrial motility in yeast

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2001 Mar 13;98(6):3162-7. doi: 10.1073/pnas.051494698.

Abstract

The Arp2/3 complex is implicated in actin polymerization-driven movement of Listeria monocytogenes. Here, we find that Arp2p and Arc15p, two subunits of this complex, show tight, actin-independent association with isolated yeast mitochondria. Arp2p colocalizes with mitochondria. Consistent with this result, we detect Arp2p-dependent formation of actin clouds around mitochondria in intact yeast. Cells bearing mutations in ARP2 or ARC15 genes show decreased velocities of mitochondrial movement, loss of all directed movement and defects in mitochondrial morphology. Finally, we observe a decrease in the velocity and extent of mitochondrial movement in yeast in which actin dynamics are reduced but actin cytoskeletal structure is intact. These results support the idea that the movement of mitochondria in yeast is actin polymerization driven and that this movement requires Arp2/3 complex.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Actin-Related Protein 2
  • Actin-Related Protein 3
  • Actins / metabolism*
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins*
  • Fungal Proteins / metabolism*
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism
  • Mitochondria / metabolism
  • Mitochondria / physiology*
  • Potassium Chloride / metabolism
  • Potassium Chloride / pharmacology
  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae / drug effects
  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae / metabolism

Substances

  • Actin-Related Protein 2
  • Actin-Related Protein 3
  • Actins
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins
  • Fungal Proteins
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Potassium Chloride