Alterations of intermediate filaments in various histopathological conditions

Intermediate filament proteins belong to a multigene family and constitute an important cytoskeletal component of most vertebrate cells. Their pattern of expression is tissue specific and is highly controlled during embryonic development. Numerous pathologies are known to be associated with modifications of intermediate filament organisation, although their precise role has not yet been elucidated. The present review focuses on the most recent data concerning the possible causes of intermediate filaments disorganization in specific pathologic conditions affecting the epidermis, the liver, and the nervous system. We discuss the formation of abnormal intermediate filament networks that arise as a consequence of mutations that directly affect intermediate filament structure or are induced by multifactorial causes such as modifications of post-translational processes and changes in the levels of expression.