Septins are a group of GTP-binding proteins expressed in all eukaryotic cells except plants.[1][2][3] Different septins form protein complexes with each other. These complexes can further assemble into filaments, rings and gauzes. Assembled as such, septins function in cells by localizing other proteins, either by providing a scaffold to which proteins can attach, or by forming a barrier preventing the diffusion of molecules from one compartment of the cell to another,[2][3][4][5] or in the cell cortex as a barrier to the diffusion of membrane-bound proteins.[6]
Septins have been implicated in the localization of cellular processes at the site of cell division, and at the cell membrane at sites where specialized structures like cilia or flagella are attached to the cell body.[4] In yeast cells, they compartmentalize parts of the cell and build scaffolding to provide structural support during cell division at the septum, from which they derive their name.[3] Research in human cells suggests that septins build cages around pathogenic bacteria, that immobilize and prevent them from invading other cells.[7]
As filament forming proteins, septins can be considered part of the cytoskeleton.[4] Apart from forming non-polar filaments, septins associate with cell membranes, the cell cortex, actin filaments and microtubules.[4][6]
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Septin
Categories: Cell biologyCell cycleProteinsCellular processesCytoskeleton
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