The protein α-catenin has an essential role in stabilizing cell-cell junctions, and it is involved in multiple interactions with other cytoskeleton proteins. The crystal structure of nearly full-length human α-catenin now reveals a handshake-like dimer with the two monomers in distinct conformations. This dimer asymmetry is important for F-actin binding and for interactions with activated vinculin.
- Erumbi S Rangarajan
- Tina Izard
