Cytoplasmic dynein: tension generation on microtubules and the nucleus

Cell Mol Bioeng. 2013 Mar 1;6(1):74-81. doi: 10.1007/s12195-012-0257-4.

Abstract

Cytoplasmic dynein is a microtubule dependent motor protein that is central to vesicle transport, cell division and organelle positioning. Recent studies suggest that dynein can generate significant pulling forces on intracellular structures as it motors along microtubules. In this review, we discuss how dynein-generated pulling forces position the nucleus and the centrosome.

Keywords: Centrosome Centering; Cytoplasmic Dynein; Force Generation; Nuclear Positioning.