Recombinant Human Profilin 2 protein

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Profilin 2 also known as PFN2 is an actin-binding protein with an important role in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. With a molecular weight of around 14 kDa it is expressed in tissues such as the brain and muscle where it contributes to dynamic cellular processes such as cell movement and shape maintenance. PFN2 binds not only to actin but also to phosphatidylinositol 45-bisphosphate mediating the sequestration and availability of actin monomers essential for actin polymerization.

Biological function summary

Profilin 2 regulates actin dynamics essential for cellular processes like membrane trafficking and signal transduction. It is not typically known to be part of an extensive protein complex but interacts with other proteins including members of the Arp2/3 complex to promote actin filament nucleation and branching. This regulation impacts processes like vesicle transport particularly in neuronal cells where Profilin 2 influences synaptic function and plasticity.

Pathways

Actin dynamics controlled by Profilin 2 play significant roles in both the Rho GTPase and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. In these pathways Profilin 2 interfaces with Rho-related proteins to modulate the actin cytoskeleton impacting cell adhesion and movement. Its interaction with PI3K elements contributes to cell growth and survival signals aligning Profilin 2's functions with cellular responses to environmental cues.

Abnormalities in Profilin 2 expression or function have been linked to neurological disorders such as schizophrenia and neurodegenerative diseases like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). In these conditions Profilin 2’s interactions with cytoskeletal proteins such as cofilin and tau could disrupt normal neuronal functions and synaptic stability. Its deregulation resulting in misbalanced actin dynamics contributes to the pathology observed in affected neuronal circuits.