Anti-WASL

This gene encodes a member of the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) protein family. Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome proteins share similar domain structure, and associate with a variety of signaling molecules to alter the actin cytoskeleton. The encoded protein is highly expressed in neural tissues, and interacts with several proteins involved in cytoskeletal organization, including cell division control protein 42 (CDC42) and the actin-related protein-2/3 (ARP2/3) complex. The encoded protein may be involved in the formation of long actin microspikes, and in neurite extension. Protein function: Regulates actin polymerization by stimulating the actin- nucleating activity of the Arp2/3 complex (PubMed:9422512, PubMed:16767080, PubMed:19366662, PubMed:19487689, PubMed:22847007, PubMed:22921828). Involved in various processes, such as mitosis and cytokinesis, via its role in the regulation of actin polymerization (PubMed:9422512, PubMed:19366662, PubMed:19487689, PubMed:22847007, PubMed:22921828). Together with CDC42, involved in the extension and maintenance of the formation of thin, actin-rich surface projections called filopodia (PubMed:9422512). In addition to its role in the cytoplasm, also plays a role in the nucleus by regulating gene transcription, probably by promoting nuclear actin polymerization (PubMed:16767080). Binds to HSF1/HSTF1 and forms a complex on heat shock promoter elements (HSE) that negatively regulates HSP90 expression. Plays a role in dendrite spine morphogenesis. [The UniProt Consortium]