The role of formins in human disease

Biochim Biophys Acta. 2010 Feb;1803(2):226-33. doi: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2009.11.006. Epub 2009 Nov 24.

Abstract

Formins are a conserved family of proteins that play key roles in cytoskeletal remodeling. They nucleate and processively elongate non-branched actin filaments and also modulate microtubule dynamics. Despite their significant contributions to cell biology and development, few studies have directly implicated formins in disease pathogenesis. This review highlights the roles of formins in cell division, migration, immunity, and microvesicle formation in the context of human disease. In addition, we discuss the importance of controlling formin activity and protein expression to maintain cell homeostasis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Animals
  • Cell Movement / physiology
  • Cytokinesis / physiology
  • Cytoskeleton / metabolism
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Disease*
  • Fetal Proteins* / genetics
  • Fetal Proteins* / metabolism
  • Formins
  • Humans
  • Immune System / physiology
  • Microfilament Proteins* / genetics
  • Microfilament Proteins* / metabolism
  • Molecular Sequence Data
  • Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Nuclear Proteins* / genetics
  • Nuclear Proteins* / metabolism
  • Sequence Alignment

Substances

  • Fetal Proteins
  • Formins
  • Microfilament Proteins
  • Nuclear Proteins