Molecular mechanisms underlying the rearrangement of intermediate filaments networks.

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

In this study I have found that plectin binds a novel intermediate filament protein, desmuslin, and thus cloned desmuslin cDNA from rat skeletal muscle cDNA library. This protein was colocalized with desmin and plectin around Z-discs and beneath the sarcolemma. Desmuslin may play a pivotal role in the rearrangement of intermediate filament networks.I have examined spatial and temporal sequences of localization of intermediate filament (IF) proteins, desmin and plectin, during the development of rat skeletal muscle fibers. In immature myotubes, desmin IFs were arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of myotubes. Later desmin IFs oriented transversely and were aligned to Z-discs, as found in adult muscle fibers. Plectin showed similar rearrangement pattern during the maturation of myotubes, but its rearrangement preceded that of desmin IFs.