Tropomodulin 3

Tropomodulin 3 (TMOD3) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TMOD3 gene. It is a member of the Tropomodulin family of proteins, which play a critical role in the regulation of actin filament dynamics. Tropomodulin 3 is specifically involved in the capping and stabilizing of the pointed end of actin filaments, a key process in the maintenance of cytoskeleton integrity and cellular morphology.

Function

Tropomodulin 3 is essential for the proper functioning of actin filaments. By capping the pointed end of these filaments, TMOD3 prevents the disassembly of actin, thereby contributing to the stability and maintenance of the actin cytoskeleton. This stabilization is crucial for various cellular processes, including cell migration, cell division, and the maintenance of cell shape. TMOD3, like other members of the tropomodulin family, is thought to interact with tropomyosin to regulate actin filament dynamics further.

Expression and Localization

The expression of TMOD3 is ubiquitous but has been found to be particularly significant in certain tissues such as the heart and brain, where actin dynamics are vital for function. Within cells, TMOD3 localizes predominantly to regions rich in actin filaments, such as the leading edge of migrating cells, where it plays a role in cell motility and shape changes.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression or function of TMOD3 have been implicated in various pathological conditions. Given its role in actin filament stabilization, changes in TMOD3 activity can lead to cytoskeletal abnormalities, affecting cell movement, proliferation, and survival. While specific diseases directly linked to TMOD3 mutations or dysregulation are still under investigation, the study of TMOD3 and its interactions with other cytoskeletal components is an area of active research, with potential implications for understanding and treating cytoskeletal disorders.

Genetic Information

The TMOD3 gene is located on human chromosome 15. It consists of multiple exons that encode the protein tropomodulin 3. The gene undergoes alternative splicing, resulting in different isoforms of the protein, which may have distinct functions or localization patterns within the cell.

See Also

• Actin
• Cytoskeleton
• Tropomyosin
• Tropomodulin