Human Actin Gamma 1 (ACTg1) Protein

Background

ACTG1 encodes gamma-actin, a key cytoskeletal protein found primarily in non-muscle cells where it contributes to the maintenance of the cytoskeleton's integrity and dynamics. As a highly conserved isoform of actin, ACTG1 is crucial for cellular processes such as migration, adhesion, intracellular trafficking, and division. It is predominantly expressed in epithelial cells and is involved in the organization of cell junctions and maintenance of tissue structure. Mutations in the ACTG1 gene have been linked to autosomal dominant progressive hearing loss (DFNA20/26) due to its role in maintaining the structural integrity of stereocilia in the cochlea. Beyond its structural role, ACTG1 interacts with a range of actin-binding proteins, regulating the assembly and disassembly of actin filaments in response to cellular signaling. Dysregulation or mutations in ACTG1 are also associated with cancer progression and metastasis, highlighting its role in cell motility and invasion. Its ubiquitous presence and functional versatility underscore its critical role in both cellular architecture and dynamic cellular processes.