CAPZA1s

CAPZA1s, also known as capan-1, is a protein encoded by the CAPZA1 gene in humans. This gene is located on chromosome 17. The CAPZA1s protein is a component of the capping protein (actin filament) family, which plays a crucial role in regulating actin filament dynamics within cells. Actin filaments are essential components of the cytoskeleton, involved in cell shape, movement, and intracellular transport.

Capping proteins bind to the barbed (plus) end of actin filaments, preventing the addition of new actin monomers. This capping activity effectively limits filament growth and helps to maintain a dynamic balance between filament assembly and disassembly. This regulation is vital for a variety of cellular processes, including cell migration, muscle contraction, and cytokinesis.

The CAPZA1s protein is known to interact with other proteins involved in actin regulation, further highlighting its integration into cellular cytoskeletal networks. Studies have investigated the role of CAPZA1s in various cellular contexts, suggesting its involvement in processes such as cell adhesion and mechanosensing. While much is known about capping proteins in general, the specific functions and regulatory mechanisms of CAPZA1s are still areas of ongoing research. Understanding CAPZA1s and its interactions can provide insights into fundamental cellular processes and potentially shed light on the molecular basis of certain diseases.