Nck-associated protein 1 (NCKAP1)

Nck-associated protein 1 (NCKAP1) is a cytoskeletal regulatory protein, primarily known as a member of the WAVE regulatory complex (WRC) that governs actin filament reorganization in response to Rac1 signaling. It is critical for lamellipodia formation, neuronal differentiation, and migration, and it plays an essential role in the development of the nervous system. Disruption of NCKAP1 impairs microglial phagocytosis and is associated with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and defective immune responses. In cancer, NCKAP1 interacts with the WASF regulatory complex to drive cell invasion and metastasis, but can also function as a tumor suppressor in certain contexts. NCKAP1 serves as a potential biomarker in ALS and acts as a rare single gene contributor to some neurodevelopmental disorders

Other names

NCKAP1HEM2KIAA0587NAP1NAP125Membrane-associated protein HEM-2p125Nap1