Heat shock proteins are important for maintaining protein homeostasis and cell survival. Among different classes of highly conserved Hsps, low molecular weight Hsps (sHsps) have significant place, particularly Hsp27, whose role has been demonstrated in wide range of biological processes, including development, immunity, diseases and therapy. In this review, the structure and functions of Hsp27 and related genes, their role in different cellular processes as well as in stress tolerance, is highlighted.
Keywords: Apoptosis; Biomarker; Development; Hsp27; Lucilia cuprina; α-crystallin.
Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.