title: Shaping the actin cytoskeleton using microtubule tips.
abstract: The microtubule cytoskeleton serves as a primary spatial regulator of cell shape. As part of their function, microtubules appear to activate or inhibit the actin cytoskeleton at specific locations at the cell cortex for cell polarization, cell migration and cytokinesis. Recent studies reveal molecular insights into these processes. Regulators of the actin cytoskeleton, such as activators of formin and Rho GTPases, are transported to specific sites on the cortex by riding on the plus ends of microtubules.
authors.affiliation: Microbiology Department, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, 701 168th St., New York 10032, USA.
authors.forename: Roshni
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Basu
authors.forename: Fred
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Chang
mesh_terms: D000199:Actins / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D002465:Cell Movement / Q000502:physiology; D016764:Cell Polarity / Q000502:physiology; D048430:Cell Shape / Q000502:physiology*; D048749:Cytokinesis / Q000502:physiology; D003599:Cytoskeleton / Q000502:physiology*; D008870:Microtubules / Q000502:physiology*; D021381:Protein Transport
chemical_list: D000199:Actins