microtubule associated proteins (MAPs) are proteins that are associated with microtubules and can be found in great abundance in the brain. They are generally either HMW (high molecular weght) MAPs (order of 300 kDa), or Tau MAPs (40-60 kDa). They come in various 'flavors' based on function, including capping (gamma TURC), tubulin sequestering sequestering (Op18 and STATHMIN), microtubule severing (katanin), and motors (dynein and kinesin).