Self-organization of Microtubule and Associated Protein Map65

<p>One of the most fascinating micron-scale structures in the biological world is the cell cytoskele- ton, with numerous components of different sizes, shapes, and geometries working together. How the local interactions of these macromolecules and polymers in nano-scale help self- organize into this higher-order micron-scale structure remains an open question in the field of biophysics. In this thesis, via a minimal two-protein in vitro system containing cytoskeletal fiber microtubule and associated protein MAP65, I try to address self-organization through passive entropic force mechanisms. I use techniques like protein purification, light microscopy, and image analysis to quantify my results. First, I show how crowded environments contribute to microtubule nucleation, polymerization, and bundling via experiments and simulations. Next, I discuss a self-assembled limited-size microtubule bundle that is reminiscent of the mitotic spindle. I characterize these 'tactoids' and show that these are homogeneous and jammed inside. Lastly, I present results of the MAP65 condensate formation via liquid-liquid phase separation and quantification of their properties. Additionally, I elucidate a mechanism of non-centrosomal microtubule nucleation that may play an essential role in the mitotic spindle.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Physics

Year

2022

Author dc:creator

• Sahu, Sumon

Contributors dc:contributor

• Ross, Jennifer L.

• Asters
• LLPS
• MAP65
• Microtubule
• Tactoids
• Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Structural Biology
• Biophysics
• Life Sciences

Repository record dc:identifier

https://surface.syr.edu/etd/1384

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:surface.syr.edu:etd-2385