Actin binding protein scraps homolog Drosophila, Actin binding protein anillin, Anillin actin binding protein, ANLN, DKFZp779A055, Scra, Scraps, Scraps homolog.,,
Anillin, also known as scraps homolog, is an evolutionarily conserved Actin- binding protein required for cytokinesis that was first identified in Drosophila melanogaster. Anillin is a ubiquitously expressed protein with highest expression levels in the central nervous system. It is predominantly found in the nucleus and it localizes to the cleavage furrow during cytokinesis, forming a ring with the help of Rac GTPase. During cytokinesis, Anillin interacts with CD2AP and functions to concentrate Rho A and maintain the localization of active Myosin. In Anillin knockout cells the cleavage furrow fails to complete ingression. Anillin expression levels fluctuate with the cell cycle, peaking in mitosis. Before the cell exits into G1, Anillin associates with E-cadherin and is ubiquitinated by the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C). APC/C recognizes the D-box domain at the N-terminal region of Anillin. Anillin is commonly overexpressed in tumors and may serve as a potential biomarker.Anillin is required for cytokinesis. It is essential for the structural integrity of the cleavage furrow and for completion of cleavage furrow ingression.
