Kinetic trapping organizes actin filaments within liquid-like protein droplets.

ABSTRACT: Several actin-binding proteins (ABPs) phase separate to form condensates capable of curating the actin network shapes. Here, we use computational modeling to understand the principles of actin network organization within VASP condensate droplets. Our simulations reveal that the different actin shapes, namely shells, rings, and mixture states are highly dependent on the kinetics of VASP-actin interactions, suggesting that they arise from kinetic trapping. Specifically, we show that reducing the residence time of VASP on actin filaments reduces degree of bundling, thereby promoting assembly of shells rather than rings. We validate the model predictions experimentally using a VASP-mutant with decreased bundling capability. Finally, we investigate the ring opening within deformed droplets and

SUBMITTER: Chandrasekaran A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11009352 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature