The atlastin C-terminal tail is an amphipathic helix that perturbs the bilayer structure during endoplasmic reticulum homotypic fusion

Abstract

Background: Atlastin is large GTPase that catalyzes the homotypic fusion of ER membranes. Results: In vitro and in vivo studies reveal that the C-terminal tail of Atlastin affects its function. Conclusion: The amphipathic C-terminal tail of Atlastin destabilizes lipid bilayers to promote membrane fusion. Significance: Describing the mechanism of Atlastin-mediated fusion is a critical step in our understanding of ER structure formation.