Complexes containing actin and spectrin from erythrocyte and brain

Abstract

A complex of proteins with properties similar to those of erythrocyte spectrinband 4.1-actin complex has been idientified in a preparation derived from bovine brain. The complex has an apparent sedimentation coefficient of about 26S, and contains brain spectrin (also called fodrin) and actin as major components. The actin in the complex is in the oligomeric form, which nucleates assembly of actin filaments that grow from the “barbed” end. The complex cross-links actin filaments, resulting in an increase in low-shear viscosity. Whether the complex contains a protein analogous to erythrocyte band 4.1 is not known. However, it can be demonstrated that brain spectrin has the capability to interact with band 4.1 in a way which increases its ability to cross-link actin filaments.