Dependency Relationships within the Fission Yeast Polarity Network

The ability to regulate polarised cell growth is crucial to maintain the viability

of cells. Growth is modulated to facilitate essential cell functions and respond

to the external environment. Failure to do so can lead to numerous

developmental and disease states including cancer. We have undertaken a

detailed analysis of the regulatory interplay between molecules involved in the

regulation and maintenance of polarised cell growth within fission yeast.

Internally controlled live cell imaging was used to examine interactions

between 10 key polarity proteins. Analysis reveals: interplay between the

microtubule and actin cytoskeletons; multiple novel dependency pathways

and feedback networks between groups of proteins. This study provides

important insights into the conserved regulation of polarised cell growth within

eukaryotes.