Functions in nuclear protein import as an adapter protein for nuclear receptor KPNB1. Binds specifically and directly to substrates containing either a simple or bipartite NLS motif. Docking of the importin/substrate complex to the nuclear pore complex (NPC) is mediated by KPNB1 through binding to nucleoporin FxFG repeats and the complex is subsequently translocated through the pore by an energy requiring, Ran-dependent mechanism. At the nucleoplasmic side of the NPC, Ran binds to importin-beta and the three components separate and importin-alpha and -beta are re-exported from the nucleus to the cytoplasm where GTP hydrolysis releases Ran from importin. The directionality of nuclear import is thought to be conferred by an asymmetric distribution of the GTP- and GDP-bound forms of Ran between the cytoplasm and nucleus.
Specificity
Natural and recombinant Human Importin subunit alpha-1
Forms a complex with importin subunit beta-1. Found in a complex with CSE1L/XPO2, Ran and KPNA2. Interacts with CSE1L/XPO2 and NBN. Interacts with ANP32E (By similarity). Interacts with HIV-1 Vpr and PLAG1. Interacts with APEX1 (via N-terminus). Interacts with ARL4A; the interaction is direct.