I agree. Motors stepping to the sides produce a torque that can lead to rotation. I was just wondering if there is a possibility for rotation in the absence of side-stepping (maybe kinesin-1?). What other factors should play a role in making that happen.

Thank you! Not an experimentalist, so apologies for the naivete. Is there any possible scenario in real experiments where a microtubule (MT) rotates without motors side-stepping? Considering: the MT is flexible but not inherently curved, there are no obstacles, and only one type of motor.

Fascinating! I am curious to know what's causing the rotation. Am I right to assume that the motors are exerting a force only along the axis of the microtubule when they are bound?

If there were only one type of motor, would you account for the handedness of the microtubule to get the rotation?