Requirements for and consequences of Rac-dependent protrusion

In recent work, we sought to clarify the precise role of Rac GTPases in actin-based protrusion, using a gene disruption approach. Furthermore, we aimed at dissecting the function of its downstream target Arp2/3 complex employing its instantaneous inhibition during simultaneous Rac activation. These complementary approaches allow comparison of the consequences of Rac versus Arp2/3 complex loss of function at the cell periphery, and help to formulate a working hypothesis for how the actin network in lamellipodia is initiated and maintained.