Recombinant Drosophila melanogaster Protein bottleneck(bnk)

Acts as a regulator of the microfilament network governing cellularization of the embryo. Determines the timing of a key conformational transition in the cortical microfilament network: the proper coordination of membrane invagination and basal closure of the cells. To do this, bnk possibly physically links neighboring contractile units of the early cycle 14 microfilament network in a manner that prevents basal constriction until the proper stage has been reached. Bnk together with nullo and Sry-alpha may provide auxiliary functions, by acting both to stabilize a large and dynamic microfilament structure and regulate its functions.