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Related Concept Videos

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Cytoskeletal filaments are polymeric forms of smaller protein subunits. However, individual cytoskeletal filaments may easily disassemble or associate with other similar filaments to form rigid structures. Microfilaments, made of actin monomers, rely on actin-binding proteins to form bundles and create networks of individual actin filaments. Microtubules rely on microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) to form sturdy cylindrical structures. However, the proteins involved in forming complex...
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Plakins are large proteins with binding domains for microtubules, microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and membrane-associated protein complexes at cell junctions. Plakin functions are evolutionarily conserved and are primarily involved in organizing the different components of the cytoskeleton by crosslinking them to each other and connecting them to the cell-matrix and cell adhesion complexes. They are also known to interact with signal transducers, serve as scaffolds for signaling...
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The polymerization of G-actin monomers into filamentous F-actin is a multi-step process. Once the F-actins are formed, they can bundle together in different arrangements to form higher-order networks and regulate cellular functions. Common examples include the formation of lamellipodia and filopodia at the cell's leading edge by actin reorganization in a migrating cell. The microvilli on the brush border epithelial cells are also formed through the F-actin network.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 5, 2026

Preparation of Synaptic Plasma Membrane and Postsynaptic Density Proteins Using a Discontinuous Sucrose Gradient
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The postsynaptic density proteins Homer and Shank form a polymeric network structure.

Mariko Kato Hayashi1, Chunyan Tang, Chiara Verpelli

  • 1RIKEN-MIT Neuroscience Research Center, The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA. hayashim@mit.edu

Cell
|April 7, 2009
PubMed
Summary

Homer and Shank proteins form a mesh-like matrix in the postsynaptic density (PSD). This structure is essential for maintaining dendritic spine integrity and assembling synaptic proteins.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Molecular Biology
  • Structural Biology

Background:

  • The postsynaptic density (PSD) is vital for synaptic function, but its molecular organization is not fully understood.
  • Homer and Shank are key scaffolding proteins in the PSD, crucial for dendritic spine maturation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the molecular architecture of the Homer-Shank complex within the PSD.
  • To understand the role of this complex in synaptic structure and protein recruitment.

Main Methods:

  • Crystallographic analysis was employed to determine the structure of the Homer-Shank complex.
  • In vitro and in vivo studies assessed the functional role of the complex in neurons.

Main Results:

  • Homer and Shank proteins assemble into a mesh-like matrix structure.
  • Crystallography revealed a tetrameric structure formed by intercalated dimeric coiled coils, with N-terminal EVH1 domains at each end.
  • This tetramerization is critical for dendritic spine structural integrity and synaptic protein assembly.

Conclusions:

  • The Homer-Shank complex forms a fundamental structural framework within the PSD.
  • This complex acts as an assembly platform, facilitating the recruitment of other PSD proteins and ensuring synaptic stability.