Anti-Fascin

This gene encodes a member of the fascin family of actin-binding proteins. Fascin proteins organize F-actin into parallel bundles, and are required for the formation of actin-based cellular protrusions. The encoded protein plays a critical role in cell migration, motility, adhesion and cellular interactions. Expression of this gene is known to be regulated by several microRNAs, and overexpression of this gene may play a role in the metastasis of multiple types of cancer by increasing cell motility. Expression of this gene is also a marker for Reed-Sternberg cells in Hodgkin's lymphoma. A pseudogene of this gene is located on the long arm of chromosome 15. Protein function: Organizes filamentous actin into bundles with a minimum of 4.1:1 actin/fascin ratio. Plays a role in the organization of actin filament bundles and the formation of microspikes, membrane ruffles, and stress fibers. Important for the formation of a diverse set of cell protrusions, such as filopodia, and for cell motility and migration. [The UniProt Consortium]