The alpha tubulin acetyltransferase atat-2 genetically interacts with klp-4 in C. elegans.

Abstract

Microtubules dynamics are in part regulated by post-translational modification, including acetylation. Little is known about the relationship between microtubule acetylation status and how this affects kinesin function, especially in vivo . Using a series of aldicarb sensitivity assays in C. elegans where we combined pharmacological manipulation of microtubule dynamics with genetic approaches, we demonstrate a specific genetic interaction between the alpha tubulin acetyltransferase atat-2 and the kinesin motor klp-4 . Our work highlights interactions between kinesin activity and the tubulin code in vivo and lays the foundation of future work on these two parallel, yet related processes in cells.