Transition of human gamma-tubulin ring complex into a closed conformation during microtubule nucleation. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38305685/)

These scientists studied tiny structures called microtubules that are very important for organizing things inside cells and making sure chromosomes are divided correctly. They found that a complex called gamma-tubulin ring complex (gammaTuRC) helps in creating microtubules, but it was not clear how this complex actually does it.

So, the scientists used a special technique called cryo-electron microscopy to take pictures of the gammaTuRC complex while it was attached to a growing microtubule. They discovered that the complex changes its shape to fit perfectly with the microtubule, forming a closed structure. This change allows the gammaTuRC to create the specific type of microtubules found in human cells.

The scientists also found that a part of the complex acts like a latch, interacting with the building blocks of the microtubule to help in the closing process. Other parts of the complex also undergo changes to make sure the microtubule is formed correctly.

This study helps us understand how microtubules are created in human cells and how this process might be controlled by the cell.

Brito C., Serna M., Guerra P., Llorca O., Surrey T. Transition of human gamma-tubulin ring complex into a closed conformation during microtubule nucleation. Science. 2024 Feb 23;383(6685):870-876. doi: 10.1126/science.adk6160. Epub 2024 Feb 2.