The protein encoded by the Act87E gene belongs to the family of actins. Actins are highly conserved proteins that are the main component of the micro lament system in all eukaryotic cells and are ubiquitously expressed in all eukaryotic cells. Actins are involved in basic cell processes including cellular motility, intracellular transport, muscle contraction and cytokinesis. Actins are also one of the most conserved proteins.