Interaction of human Arp2/3 complex and the Listeria monocytogenes ActA protein in actin filament nucleation.

Welch, M D; Rosenblatt, J; Skoble, J; Portnoy, D A; Mitchison, T J · Science · 1998

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Actin filament assembly at the cell surface of the pathogenic bacterium Listeria monocytogenes requires the bacterial ActA surface protein and the host cell Arp2/3 complex. Purified Arp2/3 complex accelerated the nucleation of actin polymerization in vitro, but pure ActA had no effect. However, when combined, the Arp2/3 complex and ActA synergistically stimulated the nucleation of actin filaments. This mechanism of activating the host Arp2/3 complex at the L. monocytogenes surface may be similar to the strategy used by cells to control Arp2/3 complex activity and hence the spatial and temporal distribution of actin polymerization.

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