Capping actin protein of muscle Z-line subunit alpha-3 (CAPZA3)

Capping actin protein of muscle Z-line subunit alpha-3 (CAPZA3) is an F-actin-capping protein alpha subunit predominantly expressed in germ cells, particularly sperm. It binds to the barbed (fast-growing) ends of actin filaments in a calcium-independent manner, blocking the addition or removal of actin monomers at these ends and thus stabilizing filament length. CAPZA3 is mainly localized to the neck region of sperm and also found in the tail and postacrosomal regions, suggesting a role in sperm architecture and fertility. Unlike some related proteins (such as gelsolin), CAPZA3 does not sever actin filaments. Disruption of this gene has been associated with impaired sperm structure and male infertility, particularly globozoospermia[2][3][4]. There is currently no evidence that CAPZA3 is directly targeted by therapeutic drugs or is itself a druggable target.

Other names

CAPZA3CAPPA3Gsg3Capping protein (actin filament) muscle Z-line, alpha 3F-actin-capping protein subunit alpha-3Germ cell-specific protein 3Capping actin protein of muscle Z-line alpha subunit 3[2][3]