FYVE, RhoGEF And PH Domain Containing protein 4 (FGD4)

FGD4 encodes a protein that is involved in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton and cell shape. This protein contains an actin filament-binding domain, which together with its Dbl homology domain and one of its pleckstrin homology domains, can form microspikes. This protein can activate MAPK8 independently of the actin filament-binding domain, and it is also involved in the activation of CDC42 via the exchange of bound GDP for free GTP.The activation of CDC42 also enables this protein to play a role in mediating the cellular invasion of Cryptosporidium parvum, an intracellular parasite that infects the gastrointestinal tract. Mutations in this gene can cause Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 4H (CMT4H), a disorder of the peripheral nervous system.