Plectin is a large cytoskeletal linker protein encoded by a single gene on chromosome 8 in humans. It belongs to the plakin family and is expressed as multiple isoforms in various cell types and tissues. Plectin plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular and tissue integrity by cross-linking different components of the cytoskeleton, including intermediate filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Its multidomain structure, including an actin-binding domain (ABD) and spectrin repeats, enables it to interact with cell adhesion molecules and signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/AKT and FAK/Src pathways. Plectin is involved in various cellular processes, including cell adhesion, migration, and mechanotransduction. It also acts as a scaffold for signaling complexes and is essential for resisting mechanical forces generated by actin. In cancer, plectin has been implicated in both tumor suppression and promotion, contributing to cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Its expression and function vary across different cancer types, highlighting its dual role in tumor progression.
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