Cells contain a host of proteins that bind to actin, and these play an important role in the function of the cytoskeletal network. Actin-binding proteins (ABPs) can affect actin's ability to polymerize, crosslink adjacent filaments, anchor them to membrane complexes and connect them with other cytoskeletal components and signalling pathways. To help keep track of all these proteins, in Cell Science at a Glance (see + poster), Steve Winder and Kathryn Ayscough survey the different types of ABP, classifying them according to their functions and mechanisms of action.
