Dynamin was originally identified as a GTPase that co-purified with brain microtubules. Mammalian genomes contain three dynamin genes16. The proteins encoded by these genes share the same domain organization and 80% overall homology, but they have distinct expression patterns. Dynamin is localized at sites of endocytosis. It is also found at actin meshworks nucleated by the actin-related protein 2/3 (ARP2/3) complex, such as membrane ruffles, podosomes and invadopodia, and at actin pedestals induced by pathogenic bacteria (such as enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC)). Other dynamin-like proteins (DLPs), including atlastin, dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1), optic atrophy 1 homologue (OPA1) and mitofusin, localize to sites of intracellular membrane fission and fusion in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mitochondria and peroxisomes.

References

1.Ferguson SM,et al. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol. 2012 Jan 11;13(2):75-88.