Plk1 Regulates Both ASAP Localization and Its Role in Spindle Pole Integrity

Bipolar spindle formation is essential for faithful chromosome segregation at mitosis. Because centrosomes define spindle poles, abnormal number and structural organization of centrosomes can lead to loss of spindle bipolarity and genetic integrity. ASAP (aster-associated protein or MAP9) is a centrosome- and spindle-associated protein, the deregulation of which induces severe mitotic defects. Its phosphorylation by Aurora A is required for spindle assembly and mitosis progression. Here, we show that ASAP is localized to the spindle poles by Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) (a mitotic kinase that plays an essential role in centrosome regulation and mitotic spindle assembly) through the γ-TuRC-dependent pathway. We also demonstrate that ASAP is a novel substrate of Plk1 phosphorylation and have identified serine 289 as the major phosphorylation site by Plk1 in vivo. ASAP phosphorylated on serine 289 is localized to centrosomes during mitosis, but this phosphorylation is not required for its Plk1-dependent localization at the spindle poles. We show that phosphorylated ASAP on serine 289 contributes to spindle pole stability in a microtubule-dependent manner. These data reveal a novel function of ASAP in centrosome integrity. Our results highlight dual ASAP regulation by Plk1 and further confirm the importance of ASAP for spindle pole organization, bipolar spindle assembly, and mitosis.