Villin (VIL1) is a tissue specific actin modifying protein associated with actin filaments in microvilli and the terminal web of epithelial cells. It is involved in regulating actin dynamics, cell morphology, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cell migration, and cell survival. Deregulation of this gene may contribute to tumorigenesis. Loss of expression of villin is seen in poorly differentiated colorectal carcinomas, particularly in microsatellite-unstable (MSI) tumors, and is linked to poor survival. In normal tissues, it is expressed on luminal membranes (microvilli) of the gastrointestinal epithelium, as well as in proximal convoluted tubules of the kidney and gallbladder. VIL1 is positive in pulmonary adenocarcinomas, colon adenocarcinomas, and renal cell carcinomas. References: FEBS Lett 2008 582(14):2128; Patnaik 2016; Arango 2012; Jaudah 2013