WHAMM
Description
The WHAMM (WASP homolog associated with actin, golgi membranes and microtubules) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 15.
WHAMM acts as a nucleation-promoting factor (NPF) that stimulates Arp2/3-mediated actin polymerization at the Golgi apparatus and tubular membranes. This activity in membrane tubulation requires F-actin and interaction with microtubules. It's proposed that distinct WHAMM molecules coordinate actin-nucleating and microtubule-binding activities to drive membrane tubule elongation. When bound to microtubules, WHAMM can recruit and remodel membrane vesicles but is prevented from activating the Arp2/3 complex. WHAMM is involved in regulating Golgi positioning and morphology, participating in vesicle transport between the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi complex. It's required for RhoD-dependent actin reorganization, which is crucial for cell adhesion and migration.
WHAMM is also known as WHAMM1, WHDC1.
