Intermediate filaments: A dynamic network that controls cell mechanics

Yosef Gruenbaum*, Ueli Aebi

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

38 Scopus citations

Abstract

In humans the superfamily of intermediate filament (IF) proteins is encoded bymore than 70 different genes, which are expressed in a cell- and tissue-specific manner. IFs assemble into approximately 10 nm-wide filaments that account for the principal structural elements at the nuclear periphery, nucleoplasm, and cytoplasm. They are also required for organizing the microtubule and microfilament networks. In this review, we focus on the dynamics of IFs and how modifications regulate it. We also discuss the role of nuclear IF organization in determining nuclear mechanics as well as that of cytoplasmic IFs organization in maintaining cell stiffness, formation of lamellipodia, regulation of cell migration, and permitting cell adhesion.

Original languageEnglish
Article number54
JournalF1000Prime Reports
Volume6
DOIs
StatePublished - 8 Jul 2014

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