Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 10, 2026

Self-Assembly of Microtubule Tactoids
Published on: June 23, 2022
A strongly basic protein of the MAP2 family copolymerizes with tubulin and induces polymerization
Abstract:
The family of microtubuli-associated proteins of approximately 300 kD molecular weight (MAP2) from porcine brain was fractionated into components of neutral isoelectric point and one polypeptide of strongly basic nature. Both fractions are able to induce the polymerization of purified porcine brain tubulin. In the case of the fractions of an isoelectric point of 7.2, thick and short tubular structures result. Under the influence of the basic protein, extremely long tubules of normal diameter of microtubules are produced. This basic MAP2 copolymerizes with tubulin.
Related Concept Videos
Assembly of Cytoskeletal Filaments
Microtubule Formation
Microtubule Associated Proteins (MAPs)
Destabilization of Microtubules
Assembly of Complex Microtubule Structures
Microtubule Instability

