Interdependence of filamentous actin and microtubules for asymmetric cell division

Asymmetric cell divisions are crucial to the generation of cell fate divers ity. They contribute to unequal distribution of cellular factors to the dau ghter cells. Asymmetric divisions are characterized by a 90 degrees rotatio n of the mitotic spindle. There is increasing evidence that a tight coopera tion between cortical, filamentous actin and astral microtubules is indispe nsable for successful spindle rotation. Over the past years, the dynactin c omplex has emerged as a key candidate to mediate actin/microtubule interact ion at the cortex. This review discusses our current understanding of how s pindle rotation is accomplished by the interplay of filamentous actin and m icrotubules in a variety of experimental systems.