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The migration of cortical interneurons
11/9/12

Figure-4.EN
Objectives: actin contraction and microtubule polymerization

“The protein p27 controls cortical interneuron migration through two different molecular pathways. These pathways target two components of the cell cytoskeleton: actin and microtubules”, Laurent Nguyen points out. “Two distinct domains of the protein independently control the microtubules on one hand, and the actin on the other.”, continues Juliette Godin, a researcher in Laurent Nguyen’s team and the first author of the study. The regulation of actin depends on a domain of p27 that interacts with the protein RhoA known to activate myosin that regulates actin contractions, following a series of intermediate molecular steps. “By interacting with RhoA, p27 controls the activation of myosin and thus the contractions and movements of the actin in migrating neurons”, Juliette Godin explains. In addition, the scientists showed that another domain of p27 plays an important role in the polymerization of microtubules.

“This novel activity of p27 is required for proper  extension of neurites – the projections formed by the neurons – during migration”, the researcher points out. This study is the first to reveal the role of p27 in controlling the dynamics of microtubules.

Revisiting the role of p27 in the cell cycle

Having a better understanding of the development of the cerebral cortex and, in this particular case, the migration of interneurons, will make it easier in the long term to develop novel strategies to treat certain neurological disorders. “This is fundamental research, creating a basis for providing critical information that will serve to develop novel therapeutical strategies in the future”, Laurent Nguyen points out.

  

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Written by :
Audrey Binet

Translated by:
ISLV

Based on the work of:
 
 

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