Cytoskeletal Networks in the Spatiotemporal Regulation of Metabolism and Disease

The cytoskeleton, particularly the actomyosin network, plays a fundamental role in the spatial and temporal regulation of cellular processes, including metabolism and disease progression. This intricate system of fibers not only provides structural support but also coordinates signaling networks that influence membrane dynamics, thereby affecting the entire cell's behavior. The actomyosin cytoskeleton, through its dynamic interactions with various cellular components, is pivotal in the spatiotemporal regulation of metabolic pathways, directly impacting energy production and bioenergetics. These regulatory mechanisms are essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and responding to environmental changes. Dysfunctions in these processes can lead to altered metabolic states and contribute to the onset and progression of diseases. Understanding how the cytoskeletal networks modulate metabolism in a spatial and temporal manner offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between cellular structure, function, and disease, opening new avenues for targeted therapeutic strategies.

The primary goal of this research topic is to elucidate the complex mechanisms by which cytoskeletal networks, particularly the actomyosin cytoskeleton, regulate metabolism and influence disease progression through spatiotemporal dynamics. This objective addresses the critical gap in understanding the bidirectional interactions between cytoskeletal architecture and metabolic signaling pathways. Achieving this goal involves integrating recent advances in imaging techniques, molecular biology, and bioinformatics to dissect the intricate relationships between cytoskeletal organization, signaling networks, and membrane dynamics. By focusing on the actomyosin cytoskeleton's role in mediating metabolic responses and energy production, this research aims to uncover novel regulatory mechanisms that could inform the development of therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders and diseases characterized by cytoskeletal dysfunctions. Furthermore, it seeks to advance our understanding of bioenergetics by exploring how changes in the cytoskeletal network affect cellular metabolism and contribute to disease pathology. Collaborative efforts across disciplines will be pivotal in achieving a comprehensive understanding of these complex systems, ultimately leading to innovative approaches to modulate cytoskeletal and metabolic functions for disease intervention.

This Research Topic aims to explore the multifaceted roles of cytoskeletal networks in the spatiotemporal regulation of metabolism and disease progression. We welcome contributions that delve into the interactions between the actomyosin cytoskeleton, signaling networks, membrane dynamics, and their collective impact on metabolic processes, bioenergetics, and disease progression. Specific themes of interest include but are not limited to the molecular mechanisms underlying cytoskeletal regulation of metabolism, the influence of cytoskeletal dynamics on cellular energy production, and the contribution of cytoskeletal alterations to disease pathology. We encourage the submission of both original research articles that present new experimental data and theoretical models, as well as comprehensive review articles that summarize recent advances and outline future directions in the field. By bringing together insights from across these themes, this Research Topic aims to shed light on novel regulatory pathways and offer potential targets for therapeutic intervention in metabolic and cytoskeletal-related diseases.

Keywords: Actomyosin Cytoskeleton, Signaling Networks, Membrane Dynamics, Spatiotemporal Regulation, Metabolism, Energy Production, Bioenergetics, Disease Progression

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