ACTL9
ACTL9: A Versatile Protein with Complex Roles in Health and Disease
Description
ACTL9 (Actin Cytoskeletal Regulator Like 9) is a multifunctional protein involved in various cellular processes. It belongs to a family of proteins known as the ARP (Actin-Related Proteins) that play crucial roles in actin cytoskeletal dynamics. ACTL9 is primarily expressed in the cytoplasm and nucleus of cells.
The ACTL9 protein contains a conserved actin-binding domain, which enables it to interact with actin filaments and regulate their assembly and disassembly. It also interacts with other proteins, such as cortactin and WIP, to form a complex that regulates cell morphology, migration, and division.
Associated Diseases
Mutations and dysregulation of ACTL9 have been linked to several diseases, including:
- Cancer: ACTL9 overexpression has been observed in various types of cancer, including breast, lung, and colorectal cancer. It promotes cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by enhancing actin cytoskeletal dynamics and cell adhesion.
- Neurodegenerative diseases: ACTL9 dysfunction has been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer‘s and Parkinson‘s disease. It plays a role in synaptic plasticity and neuronal survival by regulating actin polymerization.
- Cardiovascular diseases: ACTL9 is involved in the regulation of endothelial cell function and angiogenesis. Its dysregulation can contribute to cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and heart failure.
Did you Know ?
Approximately 5% of breast cancer cases have been associated with ACTL9 overexpression. This indicates the significance of ACTL9 in cancer development and progression.
