Anti-Desmin antibody

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

Desmin also referred to as Desmin 20 is an intermediate filament protein with a molecular weight of approximately 53 kDa. Primarily found in muscle cells desmin provides structural integrity to cells being an important component of the cytoskeleton. Desmin expression is highly specific to cardiac skeletal and smooth muscle tissues and it can be detected using desmin marker techniques like desmin IHC (Immunohistochemistry). Desmin staining or desmin stain methods are commonly employed in diagnostic labs to visualize this protein within tissue samples.

Biological function summary

Desmin plays a significant role in maintaining cellular architecture by anchoring organelles such as nuclei and mitochondria within the cytoplasm. It associates with other proteins to form desmin intermediate filament networks which facilitate force transmission and maintain mechanical integrity. This protein does not operate in isolation but is part of a larger complex of cytoskeletal elements that reinforce muscle cell shape and resilience. Its interactions and binding with other cytoskeletal components confirm its essential role in muscle structure.

Pathways

Desmin links closely to the cell structure and function pathways providing stability during muscle contraction processes. It interacts with other proteins including actin and tubulin within the cytoskeleton network ensuring coordinated responses to mechanical stress. Specifically desmin integrates into pathways related to the maintenance of the sarcomere structure thereby connecting to additional important proteins like myosin and dystrophin which collectively uphold muscular function and integrity.

Associated diseases and disorders

Desmin mutations can lead to myopathies such as desmin-related myopathy (DRM) or cardiomyopathy where the structural disruptions result in abnormal muscle function. These conditions typically manifest as muscle weakness or cardiac abnormalities. Furthermore its relationship to the sarcomere suggests interactions with proteins like dystrophin in muscular dystrophies where desmin integrity critically influences disease progression and severity. Understanding desmin's link to such disorders underpins its role as a diagnostic marker and a potential therapeutic target in muscle-related diseases.