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Related Concept Videos

Cytoskeletal Accessory Proteins01:13

Cytoskeletal Accessory Proteins

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The cytoskeleton is an essential cell component that plays several structural and functional roles. However, the filaments that make up the cytoskeleton cannot function independently and depend on the accessory or ancillary proteins to effectively carry out their function. Accessory proteins associate with cytoskeletal filaments and their monomers, aiding filament formation and function. They also help in the cross-communication among cytoskeletal filaments. Cytoskeletal accessory proteins are...
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Microtubule Associated Proteins (MAPs)01:42

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Microtubule function and architecture are regulated by an array of specialized proteins called microtubule-associated proteins or MAPs. These proteins are widespread across different organisms and have conserved protein motifs, like the multi-TOG domain for tubulin binding found in the CLASP family of MAPs. Some MAPs are lineage-specific based on their conserved domains. Their functions depend upon the cytoskeletal architecture and cell type they are located within. In-plant cells, a specific...
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Assembly of Cytoskeletal Filaments01:18

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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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Formation of Higher-order Actin Filaments01:11

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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.
The high-order actin...
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Structural Protein Function01:56

Structural Protein Function

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Structural proteins are a category of proteins responsible for functions ranging from cell shape and movement to providing support to major structures such as bones, cartilage, hair, and muscles. This group includes proteins such as collagen, actin, myosin, and keratin.
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Actin Filament Depolymerization01:19

Actin Filament Depolymerization

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Actin filaments (F-actin) are composed of actin subunits. The dissociation of actin monomers can occur from either end of F-actin. The rate of dissociation is faster from the minus-end or the pointed end, where the actin subunits exist with a bound ADP, together known as ADP-actin. The depolymerization of F-actin is aided by proteins, including the actin-depolymerizing factor (ADF) and cofilin family of proteins, gelsolin, and glia maturation factor (GMF).
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Updated: Mar 27, 2026

Visualizing Actin and Microtubule Coupling Dynamics In Vitro by Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence TIRF Microscopy
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Microtubule-Actin Cross-Linking Factor 1: Domains, Interaction Partners, and Tissue-Specific Functions.

Dmitry Goryunov1, Ronald K H Liem1

  • 1Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, USA.

Methods in Enzymology
|January 19, 2016
PubMed
Summary

Microtubule-actin cross-linking factor 1 (MACF1) integrates cytoskeleton networks, crucial for cell migration and development. Its diverse functions are essential for tissue integrity and organismal survival, with complete elimination causing embryonic lethality.

Keywords:
Actin filamentsCalponin-homology domainsMicrotubulesPlakinsSpectraplakinSpectrin repeats

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Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • The eukaryotic cytoskeleton, comprising actin filaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments, is vital for cellular processes.
  • Microtubule-actin cross-linking factor 1 (MACF1), a spectraplakin protein, dynamically bridges these cytoskeletal networks.
  • MACF1 plays key roles in cell migration, axonal extension, and vesicular transport.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the versatile roles of MACF1 in cytoskeleton regulation.
  • To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying MACF1's functions in cellular physiology and pathology.
  • To explore the tissue-specific functions of MACF1 isoforms and their domains.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of MACF1 protein family and subfamily characteristics.
  • Study of MACF1's ability to bridge actin and microtubule networks.
  • Phenotypic analysis of conditional MACF1 knockout mice in various tissues.

Main Results:

  • MACF1 acts as a versatile integrator and modulator of cytoskeleton dynamics.
  • Conditional MACF1 knockout models reveal critical roles in skin, nervous system, heart, and intestinal epithelia.
  • Complete MACF1 elimination results in early embryonic lethality, highlighting its essential developmental role.

Conclusions:

  • MACF1 is indispensable for mammalian development and tissue homeostasis.
  • MACF1's diverse functions are mediated by alternatively spliced isoforms and specific protein domains.
  • Further research into MACF1 domains and interactions promises to uncover novel roles in various biological contexts.