Ena/VASP proteins are actin-associated proteins involved in a range of processes dependent on cytoskeleton remodeling and cell polarity such as axon guidance, lamellipodial and filopodial dynamics, platelet activation and cell migration. VASP promotes actin filament elongation. It protects the barbed end of growing actin filaments against capping and increases the rate of actin polymerization in the presence of capping protein. VASP stimulates actin filament elongation by promoting the transfer of profilin-bound actin monomers onto the barbed end of growing actin filaments. Plays a role in actin-based mobility of Listeria monocytogenes in host cells. Regulates actin dynamics in platelets and plays an important role in regulating platelet aggregation.
Specificity
Natural and recombinant Bovine Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein
Subcellular Location
Cytoplasm Cytoplasm cytoskeleton Cell junction focal adhesion Cell projection lamellipodium membrane Cell projection filopodium membrane Targeted to stress fibers and focal adhesions through interaction with a number of proteins including MRL family members. Localizes to the plasma membrane in protruding lamellipodia and filopodial tips. Stimulation by thrombin or PMA, also translocates VASP to focal adhesions.
Homotetramer. Interacts with PFN1, PFN2, LPP, ACTN1 and ACTG1. Interacts, via the EVH1 domain, with the Pro-rich regions of ZYX. This interaction is important for targeting to focal adhesions and the formation of actin-rich structures at the apical surface of cells. Interacts, via the EVH1 domain, with the Pro-rich domain of Listeria monocytogenes actA. Interacts with APBB1IP. Interacts, via the Pro-rich domain, with the C-terminal SH3 domain of DNMBP.