
The author explores how VCA domains accelerate the nucleation of linear filaments by SPIN90-Arp2/3 while also destabilizing existing branches. The study reveals quantitative differences in the responses of linear and branched Arp2/3-generated filaments to regulatory proteins.


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Activation of the Arp2/3 complex by VCA-domain-bearing NPFs results in the formation of ‘daughter’ actin filaments branching off the sides of pre-existing ‘mother filaments.’ Alternatively, when stimulated by SPIN90, Arp2/3 directly nucleates ‘linear’ actin filaments. Uncovering the similarities and differences of these two activation mechanisms is fundamental to understanding the regulation and function of Arp2/3. Analysis of individual filaments reveals that the catalytic VCA domain of WASP, N-WASP and WASH, accelerate the Arp2/3-mediated nucleation of linear filaments by SPIN90, in addition to their known branch-promoting activity. Unexpectedly, these VCA domains also destabilize existing branches, as well as SPIN90-Arp2/3 at filament pointed ends. Furthermore, cortactin and GMF, which respectively stabilize and destabilize Arp2/3 at branch junctions, have a similar impact on SPIN90-activated Arp2/3. However, unlike branch junctions, SPIN90-Arp2/3 at the pointed end of linear filaments is not destabilized by piconewton forces, and does not become less stable with time. It thus appears that linear and branched Arp2/3-generated filaments respond similarly to regulatory proteins, albeit with quantitative differences, and that they differ greatly in their responses to aging and to mechanical stress. These results indicate that SPIN90- and VCA-activated Arp2/3 complexes adopt similar yet non-identical conformations, and that their turnover in cells may be regulated differently.

### Competing Interest Statement

The authors have declared no competing interest.

Nucleation and stability of branched versus linear Arp2/3-generated actin filaments

nucleation-and-stability-of-arp2-3-generated-actin-filaments


Nucleation and Stability of Arp2/3-Generated Actin Filaments
