Atlasin GTPases shape up ER networks

Dev Cell. 2009 Aug;17(2):157-8. doi: 10.1016/j.devcel.2009.07.019.

Abstract

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) adopts a remarkable array of flattened membrane structures and branched tubular networks to support cellular function. Recent studies reveal that the integral membrane atlastin GTPases, which are linked to neurodegenerative diseases, catalyze membrane fusion and are required for the formation of branched membrane networks characteristic of the ER.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism
  • Drosophila Proteins / metabolism*
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum* / metabolism
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum* / ultrastructure
  • GTP Phosphohydrolases / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Membrane Fusion / physiology

Substances

  • DNA-Binding Proteins
  • Dp1 protein, Drosophila
  • Drosophila Proteins
  • GTP Phosphohydrolases
  • atl protein, Drosophila