The giant protein titin: a major player in myocardial mechanics, signaling, and disease

Circ Res. 2004 Feb 20;94(3):284-95. doi: 10.1161/01.RES.0000117769.88862.F8.

Abstract

The sarcomere contains, in addition to thin and thick filaments, a filament composed of the giant protein titin (also known as connectin). Titin molecules anchor in the Z-disc and extend to the M-line region of the sarcomere. The majority of titin's I-band region functions as a molecular spring. This spring maintains the precise structural arrangement of thick and thin filaments, and gives rise to passive muscle stiffness; an important determinant of diastolic filling. Earlier work on titin has been reviewed before. In this study, our main focus is on recent findings vis-à-vis titin's molecular spring segments in cardiac titins, including the discovery of fetal cardiac isoforms with novel spring elements. We also discuss new insights regarding the role of titin as a biomechanical sensor and signaling molecule. We will end with focusing on the rapidly growing knowledge regarding titinopathies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Connectin
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Heart / physiology*
  • Heart Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Muscle Proteins / genetics
  • Muscle Proteins / physiology*
  • Protein Kinases / genetics
  • Protein Kinases / physiology*
  • Signal Transduction / physiology*

Substances

  • Connectin
  • Muscle Proteins
  • TTN protein, human
  • Protein Kinases