Fig. 10. A model for F-actin ring formation in the wild-type S. pombe cell.
F-actin cables are elongated between both ends of the cell during interphase.
As positional signal(s) is generated from unseparated SPBs and/or nucleus at
pre-prophase, formation of an aster-like structure is initiated from a spot
during prophase, mediated by Cdc12 or other unknown proteins. This process
includes branching of the F-actin cable, which is closely associated with the
SPBs. During metaphase, the aster formation and accumulation of the F-actin
cables progress at the medial region. A leading F-actin cable extends from the
aster and encircle the cytoplasm at the equator. Thus a primary F-actin ring
is formed. Cdc12 may be involved in this primary ring formation. A thick
F-actin ring is formed during anaphase by packing and fusion of the
accumulated F-actin cables with the leading cable. Cdc15 may play a role in
this process. During cytokinesis, the F-actin ring initiates contraction being
regulated by the Spg1-Cdc7-Sid2 pathway, and then F-actin cables reappear.