title: Structure and function of the Arp2/3 complex.
abstract: The Arp2/3 complex is a ubiquitous and essential component of the actin cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells. It nucleates actin filaments, caps their pointed ends and cross-links them into orthogonal networks. In amoeba, vertebrates and fungi, the complex consists of actin-related proteins Arp2 and Arp3 and individual copies of five novel polypeptides. The Arps are thought to mediate pointed-end capping and nucleation. Chemical cross-linking implicates three subunits in binding the complex to the side of another actin filament.
mesh_terms: D051377:Actin-Related Protein 2; D051378:Actin-Related Protein 3; D000199:Actins / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D000818:Animals; D003598:Cytoskeletal Proteins; D046911:Macromolecular Substances; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D008958:Models, Molecular; D011487:Protein Conformation