Anti-160 kD Neurofilament Medium antibody [3A11] - Neuronal Marker

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

The 160 kD Neurofilament Medium also known as NEFM NF-M or NEF-M belongs to the family of neurofilament proteins. This protein is an important structural component of neurons particularly in the axonal cytoskeleton. Neurofilament Medium has a molecular mass of around 160 kilodaltons (kD). It shows high levels of expression in neuronal tissues contributing to the maintenance of axonal caliber. Commonly research recognizes it alongside other neurofilament proteins emphasizing its role in providing structural integrity to neurons.

Biological function summary

Neurofilament Medium participates in the formation of a stable network of neurofilaments within neurons. Acting as a part of the intermediate filament protein family it forms a complex with other neurofilaments such as NF-L and NF-H. This complex supports neuron structure and plays an important role in axonal transport. The heteropolymeric nature of neurofilaments contributes to their mechanical stability facilitating essential neuronal functions by aligning neurofilaments along the axon.

Pathways

Neurofilament Medium integrates into the cytoskeletal arrangement pathways that govern axonal transport and stability. It plays a significant role in the neuronal transport pathway associating with other proteins such as dynein and kinesin responsible for the motor functions along axons. Also it relates to the MAP kinase pathway where phosphorylation events modulate its assembly and disassembly dynamics in response to cellular signals.

Associated diseases and disorders

Neurofilament Medium closely relates to neurodegenerative conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer's disease. Aberrant phosphorylation or aggregation of NEFM can disrupt neuronal function leading to pathology. In ALS the abnormal accumulation of neurofilaments correlates with motor neuron degeneration. In Alzheimer's its interaction with tau protein poses significant interest as altered states of either could exacerbate neurofibrillary tangles worsening cognitive decline.