Molecular basis for class V beta-tubulin effects on microtubule assembly and paclitaxel resistance.

ABSTRACT: Vertebrates produce at least seven distinct beta-tubulin isotypes that coassemble into all cellular microtubules. The functional differences among these tubulin isoforms are largely unknown, but recent studies indicate that tubulin composition can affect microtubule properties and cellular microtubule-dependent behavior. One of the isotypes whose incorporation causes the largest change in microtubule assembly is beta5-tubulin. Overexpression of this isotype can almost completely destroy the microtubule network, yet it appears to be required in smaller amounts for normal mitotic progression. Moderate levels of overexpression can also confer paclitaxel resistance. Experiments using chimeric constructs and site-directed mutagenesis now indicate that the hypervariable C-terminal region of beta

SUBMITTER: Bhattacharya R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2676035 | biostudies-literature | 2009 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature