Gelsolin (GSN)

Gelsolin is an actin-binding and actin-severing protein encoded by the GSN gene, present in two isoforms: cytoplasmic and secreted (plasma gelsolin). It has six homologous domains and regulates the actin cytoskeleton by assembling, disassembling, and capping actin filaments, thereby controlling cell shape, motility, and structural integrity. The cytoplasmic form contributes to intracellular architecture and apoptosis inhibition, while plasma gelsolin acts as an extracellular actin scavenger and participates in immune defense and regulation of inflammation. Gelsolin also plays a protective role against oxidative stress, is implicated in clearance of amyloid-beta in Alzheimer’s disease, and is mutated in hereditary amyloidosis leading to pathologic amyloid deposition in tissues. Decreased plasma gelsolin is associated with acute/critical illness, while increased levels are linked to muscle damage or amyloidosis, and gelsolin may function directly or as a marker in neurodegenerative disease and other inflammatory conditions.

Other names

GSNActin-modulating protein gelsolinCytoplasmic gelsolinPlasma gelsolin

Actin filament capping and severing, leading to regulation of cell shape and motility; Inhibition of apoptosis through mitochondrial stabilization; Binding and solubilization of amyloid-beta, reducing amyloid fibril formation; Anti-inflammatory action by scavenging actin and binding lipopolysaccharides; Antioxidant protection, neutralizing reactive oxygen species; Amyloid clearance