The Augmin Connection in the Geometry of Microtubule Networks

Microtubules mediate important cellular processes by forming highly ordered arrays. Organization of these networks is achieved by nucleating and anchoring microtubules at centrosomes and other structures collectively known as microtubule-organizing centers (MTOCs). However, the diverse microtubule configurations found in different cell types may not be generated and maintained by MTOCs alone. Work over the last few years has revealed a mechanism that has the capacity to generate cell-type-specific microtubule arrays independently of a specific organizer: nucleation of microtubules from the lateral surface of preexisting microtubules. This type of nucleation requires cooperation between two different multi-subunit protein complexes, augmin and the gamma-tubulin ring complex (gamma TuRC). Here we review recent molecular insight into microtubule-dependent nucleation and discuss the possibility that the augmin-gamma TuRC module, initially described in mitosis, may broadly contribute to microtubule organization also in non-mitotic cells.