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Updated: Sep 24, 2026

Myosin-Specific Adaptations of In vitro Fluorescence Microscopy-Based Motility Assays
Published on: February 4, 2021
Myosin-V: head to tail
1McLaughlin Research Institute, Great Falls, Montana 59405, USA.
Abstract:
The myosin-V family is the most extensively studied of the unconventional myosin families. Most organisms examined have at least one member of the myosin-V family: many have multiple members. The wide range of species in which myosin-V has been identified suggests that myosin-V is a fundamental component of organelle transport in all higher eukaryotes. Possible cargoes for myosin-V range from melanosomes and synaptic vesicles in mammals to vacuoles and messenger RNA in yeast. In this review, we discuss the current state of research on the cellular function of myosin-V as described by the actions of the head, neck and tail domains.
Insights
Myosin-V is a crucial motor protein for organelle transport in eukaryotes. This review details myosin-V
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Myosin-V is a highly conserved motor protein superfamily.
- It plays a vital role in intracellular transport across diverse species.
- Multiple myosin-V family members are common in many organisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current research on myosin-V cellular functions.
- To elucidate the roles of myosin-V head, neck, and tail domains.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing myosin-V research.
- Analysis of studies on myosin-V structure-function relationships.
Main Results:
- Myosin-V is fundamental for organelle transport in higher eukaryotes.
- Cargoes include melanosomes, synaptic vesicles, vacuoles, and mRNA.
- Domain-specific functions contribute to myosin-V's transport capabilities.
Conclusions:
- Myosin-V is essential for fundamental cellular processes.
- Understanding its domains is key to comprehending its function.
- Myosin-V is a ubiquitous and vital component of eukaryotic cell biology.
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