N-WASP generates a buzz at membranes on the move.
The fast-growing ends of actin filaments push against membranes to create cell-surface protrusions and to propel the movement of membrane vesicles. Co et al. (2007) now show that the neural Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (N-WASP) mediates dynamic attachment between membranes and the growing ends of actin filaments to sustain membrane movement.
Svitkina
Tatyana
T
Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, 415 S. University Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
D008841:Actin Cytoskeleton / Q000378:metabolism; D000199:Actins / Q000378:metabolism*; D000818:Animals; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000378:metabolism*; D008840:Microfilament Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D017434:Protein Structure, Tertiary; D051381:Rats; D051317:Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein, Neuronal / Q000378:metabolism*
D000199:Actins; D008840:Microfilament Proteins; D051317:Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein, Neuronal