Intermediate filament associated proteins (IFAPs) coordinate interactions between
intermediate filaments (IFs) and other cytoskeletal elements and organelles, including
membrane-associated junctions such as desmosomes and hemidesmosomes in epithelial
cells, costameres in striated muscle, and intercalated discs in cardiac muscle. IFAPs thus
serve as critical connecting links in the IF scaffolding that organizes the cytoplasm and
confers mechanical stability to cells and tissues. However, in recent years it has become …