F-actin serves as a template for cytokeratin organization in cell free extracts.

The microtubule, F-actin, and intermediate filament systems are often studied as isolated systems, yet the three display mutual interdependence in living cells. To overcome limitations inherent in analysis of polymer-polymer interactions in intact cells, associations between these systems were assessed in Xenopus egg extracts. In both fixed and unfixed extract preparations, cytokeratin associated with F-actin cables that spontaneously assembled in the extracts. Time-course experiments revealed that at early time points cytokeratin cables were invariably associated with F-actin cables, while at later time points they could be found without associated F-actin. In extract samples where F-actin assembly was prevented, cytokeratin formed unorganized aggregates rather than cables. Dynamic imaging revealed transport of cytokeratin by moving F-actin as well as examples of cytokeratin release from F-actin. Experimental alteration of F-actin network organization by addition of alpha-actinin resulted in a corresponding change in the organization of the cytokeratin network. Finally, pharmacological disruption of the F-actin network in intact, activated eggs disrupted the normal pattern of cytokeratin assembly. These results provide direct evidence for an association between F-actin and cytokeratin in vitro and in vivo, and indicate that this interaction is necessary for proper cytokeratin assembly after transition into the first mitotic interphase of Xenopus.