Actin Cytoskeleton Organization: ARFIP2 is involved in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, which is crucial for maintaining cell shape, enabling cell movement, and facilitating intracellular transport. It interacts with Rac1, a small GTPase, to mediate actin polymerization and the formation of membrane ruffles and lamellipodia .
Vesicle-Mediated Transport: ARFIP2 plays a role in the secretion of metalloproteinases (MMPs) from the trans-Golgi network. This process is vital for various cellular activities, including tissue remodeling and repair .
Autophagy and Mitophagy: ARFIP2 is a regulator of autophagy and mitophagy, processes that are essential for cellular homeostasis. It regulates the trafficking of ATG9A vesicles, which are involved in the formation of autophagosomes. This function is particularly important in podocytes, specialized cells in the kidneys that are vulnerable to oxidative stress .
NF-kappa-B Inhibition: ARFIP2 also plays a role in inhibiting the NF-kappa-B signaling pathway by interacting with IKBKB and IKBKG. This pathway is involved in inflammatory responses and immune regulation .
Mutations or dysregulation of the ARFIP2 gene have been associated with various diseases, including myoma and familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Additionally, ARFIP2’s role in autophagy and mitophagy makes it a potential target for therapeutic interventions in diseases characterized by oxidative stress and cellular damage, such as diabetic nephropathy .
Recombinant human ARFIP2 is used in research to study its functions and mechanisms in detail. It is also employed in various assays to understand its role in cellular processes and its potential as a therapeutic target.