Actin- and myosin-binding protein implicated in the regulation of actomyosin interactions in smooth muscle and nonmuscle cells (could act as a bridge between myosin and actin filaments). Stimulates actin binding of tropomyosin which increases the stabilization of actin filament structure. In muscle tissues, inhibits the actomyosin ATPase by binding to F-actin. This inhibition is attenuated by calcium-calmodulin and is potentiated by tropomyosin. Interacts with actin, myosin, two molecules of tropomyosin and with calmodulin. Also plays an essential role during cellular mitosis and receptor capping. Involved in Schwann cell migration during peripheral nerve regeneration (By similarity).
Subcellular locations: Cytoplasm, Cytoskeleton, Cytoplasm, Myofibril, Cytoplasm, Cytoskeleton, Stress fiber
On thin filaments in smooth muscle and on stress fibers in fibroblasts (nonmuscle).
High-molecular-weight caldesmon (isoform 1) is predominantly expressed in smooth muscles, whereas low-molecular-weight caldesmon (isoforms 2, 3, 4 and 5) are widely distributed in non-muscle tissues and cells. Not expressed in skeletal muscle or heart.