BAIAP2
Description
The BAIAP2 (BAR/IMD domain containing adaptor protein 2) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 17.
BAIAP2, or Brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor 1-associated protein 2, is a protein encoded by the BAIAP2 gene in humans. BAIAP2 interacts with the brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor (BAI1) at the cytoplasmic membrane, suggesting a role in neuronal growth-cone guidance. BAIAP2 is a substrate for insulin receptor tyrosine kinase, indicating a potential role for insulin in the central nervous system. BAIAP2 also interacts with the dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy gene, linked to a neurodegenerative disease. Furthermore, BAIAP2 associates with a downstream effector of Rho small G proteins, which are involved in stress fiber formation and cytokinesis. Alternative splicing of the 3'-end of the BAIAP2 gene produces three products with unknown functions.
BAIAP2 acts as an adapter protein that connects membrane-bound small G-proteins to cytoplasmic effector proteins. This connection is crucial for reorganizing the actin cytoskeleton, a process mediated by CDC42 and RAC1, and for promoting membrane ruffling. BAIAP2 also plays a vital role in regulating the actin cytoskeleton through interactions with WASF family members and the Arp2/3 complex. This regulation contributes to neurite growth and, in synergy with ENAH, promotes the formation of filipodia. Furthermore, BAIAP2 participates in the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton in response to bacterial infection. When associated with EPS8, BAIAP2 promotes filopodial protrusions through actin bundling.
BAIAP2 is also known as BAP2, FLAF3, IRSP53, WAML.
