Regulation of actin assembly by SCAR/WAVE proteins.

Abstract

Actin reorganization is a tightly regulated process that co-ordinates complex cellular events, such as cell migration, chemotaxis, phagocytosis and adhesion, but the molecular mechanisms that underlie these processes are not well understood. SCAR (suppressor of cAMP receptor)/WAVE [WASP (Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein)-family verprolin homology protein] proteins are members of the conserved WASP family of cytoskeletal regulators, which play a critical role in actin dynamics by triggering Arp2/3 (actin-related protein 2/3)-dependent actin nucleation. SCAR/WAVEs are thought to be regulated by a pentameric complex which also contains Abi (Abl-interactor), Nap (Nck-associated protein), PIR121 (p53-inducible mRNA 121) and HSPC300 (haematopoietic stem progenitor cell 300), but the structural organization of the complex and the contribution of its individual components to the regulation of SCAR/WAVE function remain unclear. Additional features of SCAR/WAVE regulation are highlighted by the discovery of other interactors and distinct complexes. It is likely that the combinatorial assembly of different components of SCAR/WAVE complexes will prove to be vital for their roles at the centre of dynamic actin reorganization.

• Authors: N Ibarra, A Pollitt, R H Insall
• Journal: Biochemical Society transactions (Biochem Soc Trans) Vol. 33 Issue Pt 6 Pg. 1243-6 (Dec 2005) ISSN: 0300-5127 [Print] England
• PMID: 16246088 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Actin-Related Protein 2-3 Complex
• Actins
• Multiprotein Complexes
• Protozoan Proteins
• SCAR protein, Dictyostelium
• Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein Family

Topics

• Actin-Related Protein 2-3 Complex (metabolism)
• Actins (metabolism)
• Animals
• Models, Molecular
• Multiprotein Complexes
• Protein Conformation
• Protozoan Proteins (metabolism)
• Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein Family (metabolism)