Tubulin (alpha- and beta-tubulin proteins; Microtubule polymer) (Tubulin)

Tubulin is a highly conserved globular protein that forms heterodimers (alpha and beta subunits) and polymerizes into microtubules — dynamic hollow tubes that constitute a major part of the eukaryotic cytoskeleton. Microtubules provide structural support, help maintain cell shape, and serve as tracks for the transport of organelles and vesicles. During cell division, microtubules make up the mitotic spindle, which segregates chromosomes. Tubulin isotypes are differentially expressed across tissues and cell types, and alterations in tubulin expression or modification are implicated in cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and inflammation. Drugs that interact with tubulin or microtubules are used in chemotherapy to disrupt cell division, but their use is limited by significant toxicity, development of resistance, and impact on normal cellular functions.

Other names

Microtubule (polymerized tubulin)TubulinAlpha-tubulinBeta-tubulinγ-tubulin (gamma-tubulin, when nucleation is relevant)Tubulin heterodimerTubulin polymer

Inhibition of tubulin polymerization (e.g., colchicine, vinca alkaloids) Stabilization of polymerized microtubules to block depolymerization (e.g., paclitaxel, docetaxel) Disruption of mitotic spindle formation, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in rapidly dividing cells Inhibition or modification of intracellular transport and trafficking