A function for kinesin I in the posterior transport of oskar mRNA and Staufen protein

The asymmetric localization of messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein determinant s plays an important role in the establishment of complex body plans. In Dr osophila oocytes, the anterior localization of bicoid mRNA and the posterio r Localization of oskar mRNA are key events in establishing the anterior-po sterior axis. Although the mechanisms that drive bicoid and oskar Localizat ion have been elusive, oocyte microtubules are known to be essential. Here we report that the plus end-directed microtubule motor kinesin 1 is require d for the posterior Localization of oskar mRNA and an associated protein, S taufen, but not for the anterior-posterior localization of other asymmetric factors. Thus, a complex containing oskar mRNA and Staufen may be transpor ted along microtubules to the posterior pole by kinesin I.