Cofilin: Molecular and Cellular Functions and Its Role in the Functioning of the Nervous System

Abstract

Actin-binding proteins and, in particular, members of the actin-depolymerization factor (ADF)/cofilin family, are involved in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton in response to various intracellular and extracellular signals. Recent studies point to the exceptional role of this group of proteins in the development and functioning of the nervous system. This review presents the latest data on the functions of cofilin in the cell and the signaling pathways involved in its regulation. Special attention is paid to studies of the relationship between cofilin and actin dynamics in such processes as the control of synaptic plasticity, apoptosis of neurons, and neuroinflammation. We show the molecular mechanisms of cofilin activation-inactivation and the specific structure of actin in nerve cells during neurodegeneration in the in vitro and in vivo models. We review new directions in the study of cofilin and related proteins as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nervous system.