Overview

In his first talk, Tim Mitchison introduces the concept of self-organization of molecules in living systems. He focuses on the cytoskeleton, and in particular on microtubules, as an example of proteins that self-organize and, in turn, are key players in the spatial organization of cells. He also presents an interesting comparison of self-assembly and self-organization and what he considers the key difference between these processes. Mitchison continues his talk on self-organization in part 2, with a focus on the meiotic spindle. Using Xenopus eggs as a model system, Mitchison explains how spindle assembly is initiated, and that microtubules within the spindle constantly grow, shrink and slide relative to each other. These reactions result in an organized structure capable of responding to its environment.

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