A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Intermediate filaments at a glance




AuthorsCoelho-Rato, Leila S.; Parvanian, Sepideh; Salajkova, Sarka Andrs; Medalia, Ohad; Eriksson, John E.

Publisher The Company of Biologists

Publication year2024

JournalJournal of Cell Science

Article numberjcs261386

Volume137

Issue16

ISSN0021-9533

eISSN1477-9137

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1242/jcs.261386

Web address https://doi.org/10.1242/jcs.261386


Abstract

Intermediate filaments (IFs) comprise a large family of versatile cytoskeletal proteins, divided into six subtypes with tissue-specific expression patterns. IFs have a wide repertoire of cellular functions, including providing structural support to cells, as well as active roles in mechanical support and signaling pathways. Consequently, defects in IFs are associated with more than 100 diseases. In this Cell Science at a Glance article, we discuss the established classes of IFs and their general features, their functions beyond structural support, and recent advances in the field. We also highlight their involvement in disease and potential use as clinical markers of pathological conditions. Finally, we provide our view on current knowledge gaps and the future directions of the IF field.


Funding information in the publication
Our work in this area was supported by the Academy of Finland, Sigrid Jusélius Foundation, Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation, Magnus Ehrnrooth Foundation, K. Albin Johanssons Stiftelse, Otto A. Malm Foundation, Finnish Cultural Foundation, Swedish Cultural Foundation, Ella and Georg Ehrnrooth Foundation, Emil Altonen, Instrumentarium Science Foundation and Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF 310030_207453).


Last updated on 2025-27-01 at 19:42