Actin: its cumbersome pilgrimage through cellular compartments.
In this article, we follow the history of one of the most abundant, most intensely studied proteins of the eukaryotic cells: actin. We report on hallmarks of its discovery, its structural and functional characterization and localization over time, and point to present days' knowledge on its position as a member of a large family. We focus on the rather puzzling number of diverse functions as proposed for actin as a dual compartment protein. Finally, we venture on some speculations as to its origin.
Schleicher
Michael
M
Adolf-Butenandt-Institute, Cell Biology and Center for Integrated Protein Science (CIPSM), Ludwig-Maximilians-University, 80336, Munich, Germany.
Jockusch
Brigitte M
BM
D008841:Actin Cytoskeleton / Q000502:physiology; D000199:Actins / Q000502:physiology; D000818:Animals; D002451:Cell Compartmentation / Q000502:physiology*; D002467:Cell Nucleus / Q000378:metabolism; D042002:Chromatin Assembly and Disassembly / Q000502:physiology; D003285:Contractile Proteins / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008840:Microfilament Proteins / Q000502:physiology*; D008958:Models, Molecular; D011487:Protein Conformation
D000199:Actins; D003285:Contractile Proteins; D008840:Microfilament Proteins