DrosophilaF-BAR protein Syndapin contributes to coupling the plasma membrane and contractile ring in cytokinesis

Iain M Robinson,John R Griffiths,Anthony D Whetton,David M Glover,Matthew M Savoian,Tetsuya Takeda,Harvey T Mcmahon

doi:10.1098/rsob.130081

Abstract

Cytokinesis is a highly ordered cellular process driven by interactions between central spindle microtubules and the actomyosin contractile ring linked to the dynamic remodelling of the plasma membrane. The mechanisms responsible for reorganizing the plasma membrane at the cell equator and its coupling to the contractile ring in cytokinesis are poorly understood. We report here that Syndapin, a protein containing an F-BAR domain required for membrane curvature, contributes to the remodelling of the plasma membrane around the contractile ring for cytokinesis. Syndapin colocalizes with phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) at the cleavage furrow, where it directly interacts with a contractile ring component, Anillin. Accordingly, Anillin is mislocalized during cytokinesis in Syndapin mutants. Elevated or diminished expression of Syndapin leads to cytokinesis defects with abnormal cortical dynamics. The minimal segment of Syndapin, which is able to localize to the cleavage furrow and induce cytokinesis defects, is the F-BAR domain and its immediate C-terminal sequences. Phosphorylation of this region prevents this functional interaction, resulting in reduced ability of Syndapin to bind to and deform membranes. Thus, the dephosphorylated form of Syndapin mediates both remodelling of the plasma membrane and its proper coupling to the cytokinetic machinery.

Highlights

Cytokinesis is the final step of cell division required to partition the newly segregated daughter chromosomes, cytoplasmic macromolecules and organelles into daughter cells [1]
Cytokinesis in most eukaryotes is accomplished through contraction of the contractile ring, which in turn leads to constriction of the plasma membrane [4]
Drosophila Syndapin localizes to the cleavage furrow during cytokinesis

Summary

Introduction

Cytokinesis is the final step of cell division required to partition the newly segregated daughter chromosomes, cytoplasmic macromolecules and organelles into daughter cells [1]. Defects in this process lead to aneuploidy associated with infertility, developmental defects and cancers [2,3]. Cytokinesis in most eukaryotes is accomplished through contraction of the contractile ring, which in turn leads to constriction of the plasma membrane [4]. Recent studies have shown that membrane trafficking and remodelling machineries play crucial roles in both furrowing and abscission [5,6].

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Results

Discussion

Conclusion