Recombinant Human Dynein protein

Supplementary information

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

The dynein protein a motor protein also known as cytoplasmic dynein plays an important role in cellular mechanics. It has a molecular mass of approximately 1.2 megadaltons. Dynein functions by converting chemical energy from ATP hydrolysis into mechanical work enabling movement along microtubules toward the minus end. Expressed widely in eukaryotic cells dynein is particularly found in the cytoplasm where it aids intracellular transport processes.

Biological function summary

Dynein facilitates important cellular processes by transporting organelles vesicles and even chromosomes. It is a major component of the dynactin complex a multi-subunit assembly that enhances dynein's affinity for microtubules and cargo. Through its interactions dynein maintains cellular organization and is pivotal in mitosis where it aligns chromosomes and pulls them apart during anaphase.

Pathways

The functionality of dynein interlinks with significant biological pathways such as the intracellular transport pathway and mitotic spindle formation. Partnering with proteins like kinesin dynein ensures the bidirectional transport necessary for cellular homeostasis. Additionally its role in spindle dynamics highlights interaction with spindle assembly checkpoint proteins orchestrating precise chromosome segregation.

Mutations or malfunctions in dynein can lead to neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). These disorders arise from defective axonal transport where dynein's role becomes disrupted. In the context of ALS dynein's interaction with superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) demonstrates its involvement in neuronal health and pathology. Similarly dynein dysfunction is linked to SMA where alterations affect neuromuscular communication and maintenance.