The primary function of gelsolin is to modulate the actin cytoskeleton. It accomplishes this by severing actin filaments and then capping the newly created barbed ends, thereby preventing further polymerization. This activity is regulated by calcium ions and phosphoinositides. Gelsolin also plays a role in signal transduction, cell motility, and apoptosis. Moreover, it has been implicated in various physiological processes, including wound healing and immune responses.
