Tubulin beta-3 chain
(Redirected from Class III β-tubulin)
Tubulin Beta-3 Chain[edit | edit source]
The tubulin beta-3 chain is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TUBB3 gene. It is a member of the tubulin family, which are globular proteins that polymerize to form microtubules. Microtubules are a component of the cytoskeleton, providing structure and shape to eukaryotic cells, and are involved in various cellular processes including intracellular transport, cell division, and cell signaling.
Structure[edit | edit source]
Tubulin beta-3 chain is one of several beta-tubulin isotypes. It is composed of 450 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 50 kDa. The protein has a highly conserved structure, characterized by a core of two beta sheets surrounded by alpha helices. The N-terminal domain binds to GTP, which is essential for the polymerization of tubulin into microtubules.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of the tubulin beta-3 chain is to form microtubules by polymerizing with alpha-tubulin. Microtubules are dynamic structures that undergo rapid phases of growth and shrinkage, a process known as "dynamic instability." This dynamic nature is crucial for their role in mitosis, where they form the mitotic spindle that segregates chromosomes into daughter cells.
Tubulin beta-3 is particularly important in the nervous system, where it is involved in the development and maintenance of neurons. It is highly expressed in neuronal cells and is considered a marker for neuronal differentiation.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Mutations in the TUBB3 gene have been associated with various neurological disorders. These include congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles (CFEOM), a condition characterized by restricted eye movement and strabismus. Such mutations can disrupt the normal function of microtubules, leading to defects in neuronal migration and axon guidance.
Expression[edit | edit source]
Tubulin beta-3 is predominantly expressed in the central nervous system, but it is also found in other tissues. Its expression is tightly regulated during development, with high levels observed in developing neurons.
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