γ-TuRC starting the nucleation process (left) vs. γ-TuRC closing (right). Once closed, thhe foundation is set and tubulins can be added to make the bridge as long as necessary ...

As γ-TuRC starts the nucleation process and as the microtubule begins to form, it cleverly changes its shape. Initially in an open state, it progressively closes as the microtubule grows.

By using cryo-electron microscopy, the team demonstrated how CDK5RAP2 binds to γTuRC, allowing it to adopt a functional shape necessary for microtubule nucleation, crucial for cell structure and ...

which enables efficient microtubule nucleation. Without this activation, the γTuRC would remain in its asymmetric form, which ...