Mis-localization of Arp2 mRNA impairs persistence of directional cell migration

Arp2/3 complex is an actin polymerization nucleator and localized in the leading protrusions of migrating cells. It has been unclear how this complex is targeted to the protrusions and whether its localization is functionally important. We previously demonstrated that mRNAs encoding for the subunits of the complex were localized in the protrusions of fibroblasts, suggesting a mechanism to target the complex to the protrusions. We here present data demonstrating the importance of Arp2/3 complex mRNA localization in directional cell migration. Using a novel mechanism by which Dia1 mRNA is targeted to the perinuclear endoplasmic reticulum, we redirected the mRNA encoding Arp2, a subunit of the Arp2/3 complex, to the perinuclear region in fibroblasts. Knockdown of Arp2 alone caused dramatic reduction of the complex and resulted in narrow protrusions, increased random cell migration speed and loss of directionality. Rescue with a protrusion-localizing Arp2 mRNA restored normal cell migration behavior, whereas rescue with a mis-localizing Arp2 mRNA failed to restore speed and directionality. These results demonstrate that localization of Arp2/3 complex mRNAs in the leading protrusions is functionally important for directional cell migration.