Metaphase chromosome structure is dynamically maintained by condensin I-directed DNA (de)catenation

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49 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Mitotic chromosome assembly remains a big mystery in biology. Condensin complexes are pivotal for chromosome architecture yet how they shape mitotic chromatin remains unknown. Using acute inactivation approaches and live-cell imaging in Drosophila embryos, we dissect the role of condensin I in the maintenance of mitotic chromosome structure with unprecedented temporal resolution. Removal of condensin I from pre-established chromosomes results in rapid disassembly of centromeric regions while most chromatin mass undergoes hyper-compaction. This is accompanied by drastic changes in the degree of sister chromatid intertwines. While wild-type metaphase chromosomes display residual levels of catenations, upon timely removal of condensin I, chromosomes present high levels of de novo Topoisomerase II (TopoII)-dependent re- entanglements, and complete failure in chromosome segregation. TopoII is thus capable of re- intertwining previously separated DNA molecules and condensin I continuously required to counteract this erroneous activity. We propose that maintenance of chromosome resolution is a highly dynamic bidirectional process.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere26120
JournaleLife
Volume6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 6 May 2017
Externally publishedYes

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