γ-tubulin as a signal-transducing molecule and meshwork with therapeutic potential

Abstract

Knowledge of γ-tubulin is increasing with regard to the cellular functions of this protein beyond its participation in microtubule nucleation. γ-Tubulin expression is altered in various malignancies, and changes in the TUBG1 gene have been found in patients suffering from brain malformations. This review recapitulates the known functions of γ-tubulin in cellular homeostasis and discusses the possible influence of the protein on disease development and cancer.