Anti-alpha Tubulin antibody - Microtubule Marker

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

Alpha tubulin also known as DM1A is an important component of the structural unit called microtubules. This protein weighs approximately 50 kDa and acts as a building block in the cytoskeleton. Alpha tubulin is expressed in various cell types across many organisms playing a fundamental role in maintaining cell shape and enabling intracellular transport. Researchers often acetylate alpha tubulin to study post-translational modifications and its effects on microtubule dynamics.

Biological function summary

Alpha tubulin combines with beta tubulin to form the tubulin dimer which is the basic unit of microtubule polymerization. These dimers assemble into microtubule filaments integral in numerous cellular processes. As part of the cytoskeleton network alpha tubulin facilitates roles in mitosis and meiosis providing spindle structures necessary for chromosome separation. Its participation in cell signaling pathways is noteworthy as it interacts with motor proteins like kinesins and dyneins to aid cellular activities.

Pathways

Alpha tubulin holds critical roles in microtubule-associated processes within the cytoskeleton and intracellular transport pathways. It interacts with the MAP (microtubule-associated protein) family which modulates microtubule stability and impacts cell division and trafficking. Moreover the microtubule pathway involves proteins like tau which bind to stabilize microtubules and are implicated in cellular dynamics and signaling.

Associated diseases and disorders

Alpha tubulin is relevant in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and cancer. Aberrant modifications or mutations in alpha tubulin or associated proteins like tau can disrupt microtubule stability contributing to pathological conditions. In cancer altered expression of alpha tubulin affects cell division leading to tumor progression and chemoresistance. Researchers study alpha tubulin using techniques such as immunofluorescence with Alexa fluor 555 to understand its role in disease better.