Dystrophin-Associated Protein Complex (DAPC)

The dystrophin-associated protein complex (DAPC) is a large multiprotein assembly found primarily in striated muscle cells. It plays a critical role in maintaining cell structure and facilitating cell signaling, especially at the costamere. The primary function of DAPC is to link the internal actin cytoskeleton of muscle fibers to laminins in the extracellular matrix via its various subunits. This connection stabilizes the sarcolemma during repeated cycles of contraction and relaxation, preventing contraction-induced damage. Loss or dysfunction of any major component can lead to increased membrane fragility, altered ion channel function, disrupted signaling pathways, excess reactive oxygen species production, abnormal calcium influxes, and ultimately muscular diseases such as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy or Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy.

Other names

Dystrophin-associated glycoprotein complex