Actin-Associated Proteins and Small Molecules Targeting the Actin Cytoskeleton

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Actin cytoskeleton dynamics are crucial for cellular functions like movement and division.
• Actin-associated proteins (AAPs) modulate actin's behavior, with actin-binding proteins (ABPs) being a key subset.
• Numerous AAPs have been discovered since actin's identification in 1942.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a comprehensive, sortable list of all identified actin-associated proteins (AAPs).
• To provide links to external databases for detailed protein information, including structure, localization, and associated diseases.
• To highlight small molecules targeting actin and AAPs for potential therapeutic applications in diseases involving the actin cytoskeleton.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review to identify and catalog AAPs.
• Data compilation and organization for sortable categorization (name, size, function, disease association, discovery date).
• Integration of links to UniProt and Protein Atlas for extended data access.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive catalog of discovered AAPs is presented.
• The list is sortable by multiple criteria, facilitating research.
• Links to UniProt and Protein Atlas provide access to detailed protein information.
• Potential therapeutic small molecules targeting actin and AAPs are identified.

Conclusions:

• This review offers a valuable, organized resource for researchers studying actin dynamics and AAPs.
• The curated information aids in understanding the role of AAPs in cellular processes and diseases.
• The identified therapeutic targets offer potential avenues for treating actin-related pathologies.