SH2B1 and IRSp53 proteins promote the formation of dendrites and dendritic branches.

SH2B1 is an adaptor protein known to enhance neurite outgrowth. In this study, we provide evidence suggesting that the SH2B1 level is increased during in vitro culture of hippocampal neurons, and the β isoform (SH2B1β) is the predominant isoform. The fact that formation of filopodia is prerequisite for neurite initiation suggests that SH2B1 may regulate filopodium formation and thus neurite initiation.

SH2B1 increases the numbers of IRSp53-induced filopodia.

Background: Filopodia are actin-rich membrane protrusions that play instrumental roles in development, cell migration, pathogen detection, and wound healing. During neurogenesis, filopodium formation precedes the formation of dendrites and spines. The insulin receptor substrate protein of 53kDa (IRSp53) has been implicated in regulating the formation of filopodia.