Tubulin beta class I (TUBB)

The Tubulin beta class I protein is encoded by the TUBB gene located on chromosome 6p21.33. It forms heterodimers with alpha-tubulins to constitute the main structural components of microtubules—dynamic cylindrical polymers essential for intracellular transport, cell division (mitosis), and maintenance of cell shape in eukaryotes. Each monomer binds GTP: alpha-tubulins bind non-exchangeable GTP while beta-tubulins bind exchangeable GTP that can be hydrolyzed during polymerization/depolymerization cycles. Mutations in TUBB can lead to severe neurodevelopmental disorders such as cortical dysplasia complex with other brain malformations 6 and rare congenital skin conditions like symmetric circumferential skin creases. The protein is a therapeutic target primarily through its role as part of the broader tubulin family targeted by anti-mitotic chemotherapeutics such as taxanes and vinca alkaloids.

Other names

Tubulin beta polypeptideTubulin beta-5 chainTubulin beta chainTUBB5Epididymis secretory sperm binding proteinTubulin, beta class ITubulin beta-1 chainClass I beta-tubulinBeta Ib tubulinBeta1-tubulin

Inhibition of microtubule dynamics by stabilizing or destabilizing microtubules leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in rapidly dividing cells such as cancer cells