CFL2
Description
CFL2, also known as cofilin-2, is a ubiquitous actin-binding protein playing a crucial role in regulating actin filament dynamics. CFL2 binds to actin filaments, promoting their depolymerization and facilitating the turnover of the actin cytoskeleton. This process is essential for various cellular functions, including cell migration, division, and intracellular transport. CFL2 activity is tightly regulated by phosphorylation, with its dephosphorylated form being active in promoting actin depolymerization.
Associated Diseases
- Cancer: Dysregulation of CFL2 expression and activity is linked to the development and progression of several cancers, including breast, lung, and colorectal cancer.
- Neurological disorders: CFL2 dysfunction has been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer‘s and Parkinson‘s disease.
- Inflammatory diseases: CFL2 contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis by modulating immune cell function.
- Cardiovascular diseases: CFL2 is involved in the regulation of vascular smooth muscle cell function and may contribute to cardiovascular disorders.
- Infectious diseases: CFL2 plays a role in the host‘s response to bacterial and viral infections.
- Developmental disorders: Proper CFL2 function is essential for normal embryonic development and may be involved in congenital abnormalities.
Did you know?
CFL2 has been shown to be involved in the formation of filopodia, slender, finger-like projections on the cell surface that are essential for cell motility and sensing the environment.