How multiple actin networks coexist in a common cytoplasm, while competing for a shared pool of monomers, is still an ongoing question. This is exemplified by meiotic maturation in the mouse oocyte, which relies on the dynamic remodeling of distinct cortical and cytoplasmic F-actin networks. Here we show that the conserved actin-depolymerizing factor cofilin is activated in a switch-like manner at meiosis resumption from prophase arrest. Interfering with cofilin activation during maturation resulted in widespread microvilli elongation, while cytoplasmic F-actin was depleted, leading to defects in spindle migration and polar body extrusion. In contrast, cofilin inactivation in metaphase II-arrested oocytes resulted in a shutdown of F-actin dynamics, along with a dramatic overgrowth of the polarized actin cap. However, inhibition of the Arp2/3 complex to promote actin cap disassembly elicited ectopic microvilli outgrowth in the polarized cortex. These data establish cofilin as a key player in actin network homeostasis in oocytes, and reveal that microvilli can act as a sink for monomers upon disassembly of a competing network.
Cofilin regulates actin network homeostasis and microvilli length in mouse oocytes
Present address: Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, IBDM-UMR7288, Turing Center for Living Systems, Marseille, France
- Award Group:
- Funder(s): Institut des sciences biologiques
- Award Id(s): ATIP
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- Award Group:
- Funder(s): Ligue Contre le Cancer
- Funder(s):
- Award Group:
- Funder(s): Ministère de l'Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche
- Funder(s):
- Award Group:
- Funder(s): Fondation pour la Recherche Médicale
- Award Id(s): FDT20130928196
- Funder(s):
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Anne Bourdais, Benoit Dehapiot, Guillaume Halet; Cofilin regulates actin network homeostasis and microvilli length in mouse oocytes. J Cell Sci 2021; jcs.259237. doi: https://doi.org/10.1242/jcs.259237
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