[Frontiers in Bioscience 14, 3159-3167, January 1, 2009]

Microtubules and cadherins: a neglected partnership

Samantha J. Stehbens1, Anna Akhmanova2, Alpha S. Yap1

1Division of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia 4072, 2Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Abstract
2. Introduction
3. Spatial distribution (s) of microtubules at cadherin adhesions
4. How cell-cell interactions affect microtubule organization
5. Cellular functions for cadherin-directed microtubules
5.1. Microtubules, membrane transport and cadherin function
5.2. Microtubule plus ends, cortical regulation and cadherin biology
6. Conclusions and future directions
7. Acknowledgments
8. References

1. ABSTRACT

Classical cadherins are fundamental determinants of tissue organization both in health and disease. It has long been recognized that cadherins function in close cooperation with the cytoskeleton, particularly with actin. Less appreciated is the capacity for cadherins to also interact functionally and biochemically with microtubules and their associated proteins. In this review, we aim to highlight the potential for cooperativity between cadherins and microtubules. Cadherins can regulate the organization and dynamics of microtubules through mechanisms such as anchorage of minus ends and cortical capture of plus ends. Such cadherin-induced reorganization of microtubules may then affect cadherin biology by diverse processes that include directed vesicular traffic by microtubule-based motors and regulation of cortical signaling and organization. Ultimately, we hope this will stimulate fresh interest and research to understand a neglected partnership.