微管正端跟踪蛋白研究的进展与展望

Progress in Microtubule Plus-end Tracking Proteins

微管正端跟踪蛋白(microtubule plus-end tracking proteins)是一大类在进化上保守的蛋白质。其成员的氨基酸序列,分子结构以及功能不尽相同,但它们都有一个共同的特点:特异地在聚合微管的正端聚集。它们之间通过一些蛋白质结构域相互作用,这些蛋白质结构域之间适当的相互作用强度保证了其能适应细胞内实时变化的环境。微管正端跟踪蛋白的作用广泛,它们能够调控微管的动态性,影响微管与细胞器和信号分子的作用,以及调节微管骨架网络所受到的力。它们对细胞形态和功能的多个方面都产生重要影响。

Microtubule plus-end tracking proteins （＋TIPs） are a group of conserved proteins that all concentrate at the polymerizing microtubule plus-end in spite of their differences in molecular architecture and cellular function. Plastic networks are formed through the modest interactions between their functional domains, which make them easily adapt to the dynamic environment. By regulating microtubule dynamics, mierotubule attachments with cellular organelles and signaling factors, and exerting forces on microtubule networks, ＋TIPs play various roles in organizing cell architecture and cellular activities.