High level of tubulin microheterogeneity in the mouse brain

Using a high resolution isoelectric focusing method, we have demonstrated a high level of tubulin heterogeneity in mouse brain: 21 isotubulins were identified. Determination of the apparent molecular weight and analysis of the peptide map of each isotubulin species allowed us to identify 7 alpha and 14 beta tubulin subunits. Furthermore, variations in this tubulin population during brain development were confirmed; in particular, an increase in the number of beta isotubulins was observed at the beginning of the postnatal period.