Asymmetric Molecular Architecture of the Human γ-Tubulin Ring Complex

The gamma-tubulin ring complex (gamma-TuRC) is an essential regulator of centrosomal and acentrosomal microtubule formation, yet its structure is not known. Here, we present a cryo-EM reconstruction of the native human gamma-TuRC at similar to 3.8 angstrom resolution, revealing an asymmetric, cone-shaped structure. Pseudoatomic models indicate that GCP4, GCP5, and GCP6 form distinct Y-shaped assemblies that structurally mimic GCP2/GCP3 subcomplexes distal to the gamma-TuRC seam.'' We also identify an unanticipated structural bridge that includes an actin-like protein and spans the gamma-TuRC lumen. Despite its asymmetric architecture, the gamma-TuRC arranges gamma-tubulins into a helical geometry poised to nucleate microtubules. Diversity in the gamma-TuRC subunits introduces large (>100,000 angstrom(2)) surfaces in the complex that allow for interactions with different regulatory factors. The observed compositional complexity of the gamma-TuRC could self-regulate its assembly into a cone-shaped structure to control microtubule formation across diverse contexts, e.g., within biological condensates or alongside existing filaments.