Beyond translation: elongation factor-1α and the cytoskeleton

While reported interactions of elongation factor-1α (EF-1α) with various other molecules involved in protein biosynthesis are abundant, its interactions with major cytoskeletal proteins have not been as extensively examined. Major roles for EF-1α in cytoskeletal organization emerge from a review of such interactions within species as diverse as slime molds and mammals, sea urchins and higher plants. Based on these studies, the integration of EF-1α's cytoskeletal roles with those of translation is considered, and prospective mechanisms for regulation of EF-1α's cytoskeletal associations are discussed.