Abstract
The cytoplasmic intermediate filament cytoskeleton provides a tissue-specific three-dimensional scaffolding with unique context-dependent organizational features. This is particularly apparent in the intestinal epithelium, in which the intermediate filament network is localized below the apical terminal web region and is anchored to the apical junction complex. This arrangement is conserved from the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans to humans. The review summarizes compositional, morphological and functional features of the polarized intermediate filament cytoskeleton in intestinal cells of nematodes and mammals. We emphasize the cross talk of intermediate filaments with the actin- and tubulin-based cytoskeleton. Possible links of the intermediate filament system to the distribution of apical membrane proteins and the cell polarity complex are highlighted. Finally, we discuss how these properties relate to the establishment and maintenance of polarity in the intestine.
Highlights
The shape of a cell and its subcellular organization are mainly determined by the cytoskeleton, which is composed of three major filament systems, each with distinct structural and functional signet features [1,2,3,4]
One might ask whether the distribution of the intermediate filament network in epithelial cells is a consequence of polarity or whether intermediate filaments by themselves influence the process of polarization
The apically enriched microtubule network is obviously retained in the adult intestine, since γ-tubulin, which is a component of the γ-tubulin ring complex, promotes the nucleation of microtubules [114], remains localized at the apical membrane [98]
Summary
The shape of a cell and its subcellular organization are mainly determined by the cytoskeleton, which is composed of three major filament systems, each with distinct structural and functional signet features [1,2,3,4]. The intermediate filaments establish a mechanically resistant scaffold ensuring tissue stability and coherence They are the most diverse in terms of molecular composition with more than 70 polypeptide subunits identified in human that are expressed in cell type- and context-dependent combinations. It has been suggested that they function as a protective barrier shielding the organism from various types of environmental challenges and insults [6,7,8,9] This property is reflected by cell type-specific distribution patterns and molecular interactions invoking multiple pathways. Cells 2016, 2016, 5, 5, 32 mammals with that encountered in C. elegans we will highlight basic features of the intermediate filament filament system system in in the the intestine.
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