Year: 2021
Type: review
Abstract: Microtubules are essential cytoskeletal elements found in all eukaryotic cells. The structure and composition of microtubules regulate their function, and the dynamic remodeling of the network by posttranslational modifications and microtubule-associated proteins generates diverse populations of microtubules adapted for various contexts. In the cardiomyocyte, the microtubules must accommodate the unique challenges faced by a highly contractile, rigidly structured, and long-lasting cell. Through their canonical trafficking role and positioning of mRNA, proteins, and organelles, microtubules regulate essential cardiomyocyte functions such as electrical activity, calcium handling, protein translation, and growth. In a more specialized role, posttranslationally modified microtubules form load-bearing structures that regulate myocyte mechanics and mechanotransduction. Modified microtubules proliferate in cardiovascular diseases, creating stabilized resistive elements that impede cardiomyocyte contractility and contribute to contractile dysfunction. In this review, we highlight the most exciting new concepts emerging from recent studies into canonical and noncanonical roles of cardiomyocyte microtubules.
Source: Annual Review of Physiology
Institution: University of Pennsylvania
Language: English
Subfield: Cell Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
Awards: Role of the cardiac cytoskeleton in mRNA localization and hypertrophy, G4964122996, Cytoskeletal regulation of cardiomyocyte homeostasis in health and disease, Detyrosinated microtubules in cardiomyocyte mechanics, Mechanical Stress-Dependent Remodeling of the Cardiac Microtubule Network, Training in Muscle Biology and Muscle Disease, Training Program in Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, Science and Technology Center for Engineering Mechano-Biology
OpenAlex ID: W3203540785