MYO3B

This gene encodes one of the class III myosins. Myosins are ATPases, activated by actin, that move along actin filaments in the cell. This class of myosins are characterized by an amino-terminal kinase domain and shown to be present in photoreceptors. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms.

Full Name

MYOSIN IIIB

Function

Probable actin-based motor with a protein kinase activity. Required for normal cochlear hair bundle development and hearing. Plays an important role in the early steps of cochlear hair bundle morphogenesis. Influences the number and lengths of stereocilia to be produced and limits the growth of microvilli within the forming auditory hair bundles thereby contributing to the architecture of the hair bundle, including its staircase pattern. Involved in the elongation of actin in stereocilia tips by transporting the actin regulatory factor ESPN to the plus ends of actin filaments.

Biological Process

Cochlea morphogenesis Source: UniProtKB
Response to stimulus Source: UniProtKB-KW
Sensory perception of sound Source: UniProtKB
Visual perception Source: UniProtKB-KW

Cellular Location

Cytoskeleton
Other locations
stereocilium