tbb-2 encodes a homolog of mammalian beta-tubulin (TUBB) that is expressed at high levels in the germline; TBB-2 is redundant for embryonic viability, due to its paralog TBB-1; however, unlike its paralog TBB-1 it is preferred for normal microtubule severing by the katanin complex MEI-1/MEI-2; TBB-2 is required together with TBB-1, TBA-1, and tba-2 to make spindle structures in embryos and TBB-2 also affects the stability of the PO spindle; first divisions are normal in null mutants, but putative gain-of-function mutations affect centrosome rotations in the P0, P1, and EMS blastomeres of the early embryo, and affect pronuclear migration and meiosis.
Predicted to enable GTP binding activity. Predicted to be a structural constituent of cytoskeleton. Involved in meiotic spindle organization. Located in spindle microtubule. Expressed in several structures, including germ line; gonad; oocyte; tail; and touch receptor neurons. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in complex cortical dysplasia with other brain malformations 1 and congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles 3A. Is an ortholog of several human genes including TUBB3 (tubulin beta 3 class III); TUBB6 (tubulin beta 6 class V); and TUBB8B (tubulin beta 8B).