Overview:

TUBB1 or tubulin-beta 1 protein is a major constituent ofmicrotubules. TUBB1 interaction with microtubule-associatedproteins (MAPs) such as tau is fundamental formicrotubule structure and function (1). Previous worksuggested that the "microtubule binding domain" of tau(composed of three or four imperfect 18-amino acidrepeats, separated by 13- or 14-amino acid inter-repeatregions) can bind to the C-terminal ends of both alphaand beta tubulin monomers. Studies revealed that TUBB1is the target of various antitubulin agents used in thetreatment of cancer. Subsequent studies have alsoconcluded that TUBB1 mutations in clinical samples arerare, and unlikely to contribute to drug resistance (2).

References:

1. Chau, M.F. et al: The microtubule-associated protein taucross-links to two distinct sites on each alpha and betatubulin monomer via separate domains.". Biochemistry,1999; 37 (51): 17692-703.2. Berrieman, H.K. et al: Do beta-tubulin mutations have a rolein resistance to chemotherapy?"Lancet Oncol, 2004; 5 (3):158-64.