Zasp is required for the assembly of functional integrin adhesion sites.

ABSTRACT: The integrin family of heterodimeric transmembrane receptors mediates cell-matrix adhesion. Integrins often localize in highly organized structures, such as focal adhesions in tissue culture and myotendinous junctions in muscles. Our RNA interference screen for genes that prevent integrin-dependent cell spreading identifies Z band alternatively spliced PDZ-motif protein (zasp), encoding the only known Drosophila melanogaster Alp/Enigma PDZ-LIM domain protein. Zasp localizes to integrin adhesion sites and its depletion disrupts integrin adhesion sites. In tissues, Zasp colocalizes with betaPS integrin in myotendinous junctions and with alpha-actinin in muscle Z lines. Zasp also physically interacts with alpha-actinin. Fly larvae lacking Zasp do not form Z lines and fail to recruit alpha-act

SUBMITTER: Jani K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2373490 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature