GAS7 plays a crucial role in neuronal development, particularly in neurite outgrowth and neuronal migration. The protein encoded by GAS7 contains an F-BAR domain, which is essential for its function in shaping the cytoskeleton and facilitating cellular processes such as actin filament binding and polymerization . These activities are vital for the proper formation and maintenance of neural networks in the brain.
Research has identified GAS7 as a susceptibility gene for schizophrenia, a chronic mental disorder characterized by significant abnormalities in brain function . Studies have shown that GAS7 is involved in the regulation of neuronal migration and morphogenesis, processes that are critical during brain development. In particular, GAS7 contributes to neurite outgrowth and influences the branching of leading processes in neurons . Dysregulation of these processes can lead to disruptions in neural circuits, which are associated with the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
In addition to its role in the nervous system, GAS7 has been implicated as a tumor suppressor gene in various cancers, including lung cancer . The gene’s involvement in cell cycle arrest and regulation of cell shape suggests that it may play a role in inhibiting tumor growth and progression. Studies have shown that GAS7 expression is altered in certain cancer types, further supporting its potential function as a tumor suppressor .
The Mouse Anti Human GAS7 Isoform b antibody is a specific tool used in research to study the GAS7 protein. This antibody is designed to bind specifically to the GAS7 isoform b, allowing researchers to investigate its expression and function in various biological contexts . The use of such antibodies is crucial for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying GAS7’s role in both normal cellular processes and disease states.