Dynamics of Actin Filament
The dynamic nature of actin filaments is crucial for their cellular functions. Some important aspects include:
- Polymerization and depolymerization: Actin filaments undergo constant making and breaking, as G-actin polymerise onto the barbed end and de-polymerize from the pointed end.
- Regulation by actin-binding Proteins: Various actin-binding proteins modulate assembly of the filament, disassembly, and stability, thereby influencing various cellular processes.
- Cytoskeletal rearrangements: They undergo rearrangements in response to extracellular signals, altering cell shape, movement, and function.
- Cross-linking of the filaments: Proteins such as cofilin and fimbrin regulate filament severing and cross-linking. This impacts filament organization and dynamics.
Actin Filaments
Actin filaments are microscopic, filamentous structures present in the cytoskeleton. Actin filaments function in cell movement, providing structural support, and facilitating cellular processes such as cytokinesis and cell division. These filaments are dynamic polymers made up of actin protein subunits that create complex networks within cells. In this article, we will look at the structure, function, and dynamics of actin filaments and how they affect cellular functions.
Table of Content
- What is Actin Filament?
- Structure of Actin Filaments
- Dynamics of Actin Filament
- Comparison Among Different Actin Binding Proteins
- What are the Cellular Processes of Actin?
- Functions of Actin Filaments
- Difference Between Actin Filaments and Microtubules