Profilin-1 versus profilin-2: two faces of the same coin?

Breast Cancer Res. 2013 Jun 27;15(3):311. doi: 10.1186/bcr3433.

Abstract

Proteins belonging to the profilin family of actin-binding proteins are considered to be important control elements for actin polymerization and have been linked to a broad spectrum of cellular functions, including cell migration. An intriguing paper recently published in Cancer Cell unveils differential effects of profilin-1 and profilin-2, the two major isoforms of profilin, on actin cytoskeletal regulation, motility, and invasion of breast cancer cells, and further establishes a mechanism underlying profilin-2's suppressive effect on breast cancer cell migration. This viewpoint discusses the implications of these findings in the context of how profilins might regulate breast cancer cell motility.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Actin Cytoskeleton / metabolism*
  • Actin Cytoskeleton / pathology
  • Breast Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology
  • Cell Movement / genetics
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Profilins / genetics
  • Profilins / metabolism*
  • Protein Binding

Substances

  • Profilins