Spectrins

Spectrins are a family of proteins found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells that line the membrane of cells and give the membrane strength, elasticity and shape. They form a structural network that helps maintain cell shape, organization and polarity. Spectrins are also involved in many cellular activities, including cell adhesion, signal transduction, vesicular trafficking, cell motility and the regulation of intracellular ion concentrations. In addition, they are essential components of the cytoskeleton, and have been implicated in a number of diseases, including muscular dystrophy and anemia. The recognition of the importance of spectrins in the structure and function of cells provides a great potential for therapeutic strategies against diseases caused by their malfunction.