Serine/threonine-protein kinase which is an important downstream effector of CDC42 and plays a role in the regulation of cytoskeleton reorganization and cell migration ( ). Regulates actin cytoskeletal reorganization via phosphorylation of PPP1R12C and MYL9/MLC2 . In concert with MYO18A and LURAP1, is involved in modulating lamellar actomyosin retrograde flow that is crucial to cell protrusion and migration . Phosphorylates: PPP1R12A, LIMK1 and LIMK2 (, ). May play a role in TFRC-mediated iron uptake . In concert with FAM89B/LRAP25 mediates the targeting of LIMK1 to the lamellipodium resulting in its activation and subsequent phosphorylation of CFL1 which is important for lamellipodial F-actin regulation (By similarity). Triggers the formation of an extrusion apical actin ring required for epithelial extrusion of apoptotic cells .
Subcellular locations: Cytoplasm, Cell projection, Lamellipodium
Displays a dispersed punctate distribution and concentrates along the cell periphery, especially at the leading edge and cell-cell junction. This concentration is PH-domain dependent. Localizes in the lamellipodium in a FAM89B/LRAP25-dependent manner.
Abundant in the heart, brain, skeletal muscle, kidney, and pancreas, with little or no expression in the lung and liver.