CENcyclopedia: dynamic landscape of kinetochore architecture throughout the cell cycle

Abstract

The kinetochore, an intricate macromolecular protein complex located on chromosomes, plays a pivotal role in orchestrating chromosome segregation. It functions as a versatile platform for microtubule assembly, diligently monitors microtubule binding fidelity, and acts as a force coupler. Comprising over 100 distinct proteins, many of which exist in multiple copies, the kinetochore’s composition dynamically changes throughout the cell cycle, responding to specific timing and conditions. This dynamicity is important for establishing functional kinetochores, yet the regulatory mechanisms of these dynamics have largely remained elusive. In this study, we employed advanced quantitative immunofluorescence techniques to meticulously chart the dynamics of kinetochore protein levels across the cell cycle. These findings offer a comprehensive view of the dynamic landscape of kinetochore architecture, shedding light on the detailed mechanisms of microtubule interaction and the nuanced characteristics of kinetochore proteins. This study significantly advances our understanding of the molecular coordination underlying chromosome segregation.