Beta Actin (ACTB): The Essential Building Block of Cellular Architecture

Beta Actin (ACTB) a well-preserved protein found within eukaryotic cells is vital, for cell structure and mobility as well as overseeing a range of cellular activities across different cell types due to its role, as a fundamental component of the actin protein group.

Structure and Expression Patterns

Beta Actin is a type of protein that has 375 building blocks called acids and weighs, around 42 kDa in molecules weight measurements equivalent to that of the atomic mass unit (amu). This protein exists in two forms. As globular actin (known as G-actin) and as actin (referred to as F-actin). The G-actin units can join to form F-actin structures which make up the filaments found in the cytoskeleton of cells in living organisms such, as humans. For humans specifically the ACTB gene can be found on chromosome number 7. Comprises six sections known as exons that cover a distance of 3 and a half kilobytes (kb).

ACTB expression remains consistent, in all types of cells and tissues. Is widely recognized as a standard reference gene in the field of molecular biology research due to its stable levels of expression controlled by multiple regulatory elements in its promoter region despite being susceptible to changes influenced by environmental factors and cellular states Furthermore the proteins structural integrity remains remarkably preserved across species underscoring its role, in cellular functions throughout evolution.

Cellular Functions and Significance

Beta Actin plays roles in cell functions. Primarily known for its role, as an element of the cells framework (cytoskeleton) it offers stability and upholds cell shape. The flexible characteristics of actin filaments enable cells to alter their shapes and move around effectively. This makes ACTB crucial for processes such as movement between cells or tissues and cellular attachment, to surfaces.

In addition to its structural role, Beta Actin participates in numerous cellular processes:

• Intracellular trafficking and cargo transport
• Cell polarity establishment
• Muscle contraction
• Cytokinesis during cell division
• Cell signalling pathways
• Nuclear processes including transcription regulation
• Cell membrane organization

The protein’s role, in functions is crucial, for the functioning and survival of cells as it enables cells to swiftly adjust to environmental shifts and internal cues by polymerizing and depolymerizing rapidly.

Role in Disease and Development

Mutations in the ACTB gene or dysregulation of Beta Actin expression can lead to various pathological conditions. Baraitser-Winter syndrome, a rare developmental disorder characterized by facial abnormalities, intellectual disability, and other congenital anomalies, is directly linked to ACTB mutations. Additionally, altered Beta Actin expression has been associated with:

Several cancer types, where changes in actin dynamics can affect cell invasion and metastasis Neurological disorders, impacting neuronal development and function cardiovascular diseases, affecting smooth muscle cell function Developmental abnormalities affecting various organ systems

During embryonic development, Beta Actin plays crucial roles in cell migration, tissue organization, and organ formation.

Applications in Research and Medicine

Beta Actins widespread presence and crucial roles, in cells make it a valuable asset in research and medical contexts. Given its status as a gene for housekeeping purposes in gene expression studies, like RT-PCR and Western blot analyses ACTB is commonly employed as a standard. Nonetheless researchers need to factor in conditions since ACTB expression levels may fluctuate depending on specific situations.

In medical applications, monitoring Beta Actin levels and mutations has diagnostic value:

1. Screening for Baraitser-Winter syndrome and related disorders
2. Assessment of cancer progression and metastatic potential
3. Evaluation of cell health and function in various diseases
4. Development of therapeutic strategies targeting actin-dependent processes

Suitable ELISA Kits

• Beta Actin ELISA Kit
• ACTB ELISA Kit