The alpha tubulin acetyltransferase atat-2 genetically interacts with klp-4 in C. elegans

Microtubules dynamics are in part regulated by post-translational modification, including acetylation. Little is known about the relationship between microtubule acetylation status and how this affects kinesin function, especially <i>in vivo</i> . Using a series of aldicarb sensitivity assays in <i>C. elegans</i> where we combined pharmacological manipulation of microtubule dynamics with genetic approaches, we demonstrate a specific genetic interaction between the alpha tubulin acetyltransferase <i>atat-2</i> and the kinesin motor <i>klp-4</i> . Our work highlights interactions between kinesin activity and the tubulin code <i>in vivo and</i> lays the foundation of future work on these two parallel, yet related processes in cells.