Expression of Cytoskeleton Actin in Cancer and Metastasis

Abstract

Cytoskeleton in Eukaryotic cell is very important for cell to keep the exact shape and supports the plasma membrane and give the mechanical support to cell. Actin is a type of cytoskeleton that is involved in several functions. Actin filaments are made up of indistinguishable actin binding proteins which is set in a lengthy curved chain which performs important function of body. Expresion of some actin binding proteins are regulated during carcinogenesis and metastasis, these proteins include Arp2/3 (Actin related protein 2 and 3 complex), fascin and the tropomyosin’s, WASP/WAVE (Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein/WASP and Verprolin homologous protein) complexes. The expansion of cancer cells from the primary tumor to other tissues and the organs is called metastasis. The connection amongst the hyperactivated signaling pathways plays a very important role in the development of metastatic. GPCRs (G Protein Coupled Receptors) through β-arrs (β-arrestins) act as a intracellular signaling particles. In tumor cells the increased and decreased expression of these actin binding proteins are involved in progression of different types of cancer and metastasis.

For further insight we have to understand what is actin and the function of actin binding proteins.