What is MAPT Protein

      Microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) stands as a linchpin in cellular biology, orchestrating a symphony of functions within the neurons of the central nervous system.

      What is MAPT Protein?

      MAPT, encoded by the MAPT gene on chromosome 17, exhibits a sophisticated structure with distinct domains. Its N-terminal projection domain, proline-rich region, and C-terminal microtubule-binding domain collectively orchestrate its pivotal functions.

      The MAPT gene locus and the tau protein isoforms. (Wade-Martins, R. 2012)

      Figure 1. The MAPT gene locus and the tau protein isoforms. (Wade-Martins, R. 2012)

      The Function of MAPT Protein

      • Microtubule Stabilization

      MAPT's primary responsibility is the stabilization of microtubules, the dynamic components of the cytoskeleton. By binding to microtubules, MAPT ensures their proper assembly and disassembly, thereby upholding the structural integrity of cells.

      • Axonal Transport

      In the intricate network of neurons, MAPT facilitates axonal transport, ensuring the seamless movement of cellular materials along neuronal axons. This function is indispensable for neuronal communication and overall cellular homeostasis.

      • Synaptic Plasticity

      MAPT's involvement in synaptic plasticity underscores its role in the dynamic modulation of synapses, a crucial aspect of learning and memory processes within the nervous system.

      MAPT-Related Diseases

      Abnormalities in MAPT pave the way for a spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases collectively known as tauopathies. The most prominent among them is Alzheimer's disease, where the aggregation of MAPT into neurofibrillary tangles is a hallmark pathology.

      • Alzheimer's Disease

      In Alzheimer's, MAPT undergoes aberrant post-translational modifications, leading to the formation of insoluble tau aggregates. These aggregates disrupt microtubule function, contributing significantly to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.

      • Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)

      Distinct mutations in the MAPT gene are linked to familial forms of FTD, another tauopathy marked by abnormal tau accumulation in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.

      • Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)

      Tauopathies like PSP and CBD exhibit specific regional accumulations of abnormal tau, resulting in motor and cognitive impairments.

      MAPT Related Signaling Pathways

      Understanding the molecular intricacies of MAPT necessitates a glimpse into the associated signal pathways that regulate its functions and dysregulation in diseases.

      • Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3 (GSK-3) Pathway

      GSK-3, a pivotal kinase, phosphorylates MAPT, influencing its microtubule-binding capability. Dysregulation of this pathway is implicated in the hyperphosphorylation of MAPT observed in Alzheimer's disease.

      • Cdk5 Pathway

      The Cdk5-MAPT pathway, involving cyclin-dependent kinase 5, is crucial for proper neuronal function. Dysregulation of this pathway has been linked to neurodegenerative disorders, emphasizing the delicate balance required for neuronal health.

      Applications of MAPT in Biomedical Research

      Beyond its implications in disease pathology, MAPT holds promising applications in the domain of biomedical research, opening avenues for diagnostics and therapeutics.

      • Biomarker for Neurodegenerative Diseases

      MAPT emerges as a potential biomarker for neurodegenerative diseases, with abnormal levels or post-translational modifications serving as indicators in cerebrospinal fluid or blood.

      • Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer's Disease

      Ongoing efforts focus on developing interventions targeting MAPT to disrupt the formation of pathological tau aggregates in Alzheimer's disease. Small molecules, antibodies, and gene therapies are under exploration to modulate MAPT function.

      • Neuroprotective Strategies

      Leveraging MAPT's role in maintaining neuronal structure, researchers are exploring neuroprotective strategies. Enhancing MAPT stability or promoting its normal function offers promising therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative disorders.

      MAPT, with its pivotal role in microtubule stabilization and neuronal functions, stands as a critical player in cellular biology. As we delve deeper into its intricacies, the potential for targeted interventions in neurodegenerative disorders becomes increasingly apparent. The journey from understanding MAPT's structure and functions to unraveling its involvement in diseases and harnessing its potential in biomedical applications is a testament to the relentless pursuit of knowledge in the realm of cellular biology.

      Recommended Products for MAPT Protein

      Cat.# Species Product name Source (Host) Tag
      MAPT-2874H Human Recombinant Human MAPT, His-tagged E.coli His
      MAPT-30090TH Human Recombinant Human MAPT E.coli N/A
      MAPT-528H Human Recombinant Human MAPT, His tagged E.coli His
      MAPT-21H Human Recombinant Human MAPT protein, MYC/DDK-tagged HEK293 Myc/DDK
      MAPT-4220HFL Human Recombinant Full Length Human MAPT protein, Flag-tagged Mamanlian cells Flag
      MAPT-39H Human Recombinant Human MAPT Protein (216-391), N-AVI-tagged, Biotinylated E.coli N-AVI
      Mapt-20M Mouse Recombinant Mouse Mapt protein, His-tagged Yeast His
      Mapt-3953M Mouse Recombinant Mouse Mapt Protein, Myc/DDK-tagged HEK293T Myc/DDK
      Mapt-2062R Rat Recombinant Rat Mapt protein, His & T7-tagged E.coli His/T7
      MAPT-01C Cynomolgus Recombinant Cynomolgus MAPT Protein, His tagged E.coli C-His

      Reference

      • Wade-Martins, R. The MAPT locus—a genetic paradigm in disease susceptibility. Nat Rev Neurol. 2012, 8: 477–478.