The kinetochore protein KNL-1 regulates the actin cytoskeleton to control dendrite branching.

ABSTRACT: The function of the nervous system is intimately tied to its complex and highly interconnected architecture. Precise control of dendritic branching in individual neurons is central to building the complex structure of the nervous system. Here, we show that the kinetochore protein KNL-1 and its associated KMN (Knl1/Mis12/Ndc80 complex) network partners, typically known for their role in chromosome-microtubule coupling during mitosis, control dendrite branching in the Caenorhabditis elegans mechanosensory PVD neuron. KNL-1 restrains excess dendritic branching and promotes contact-dependent repulsion events, ensuring robust sensory behavior and preventing premature neurodegeneration. Unexpectedly, KNL-1 loss resulted in significant alterations of the actin cytoskeleton alongside changes in mi

SUBMITTER: Alves Domingos H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11613958 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature