α-actinin also known as Actinin alpha 1, ACTN1 is a crucial cytoskeletal protein that plays a significant role in maintaining cellular structural integrity by cross-linking actin filaments, thereby forming a stable network that supports cellular shape and function. α-actinin is predominantly located in the cytoskeleton of muscle and non-muscle cells, including skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle cells, where α-actinin is essential for muscle contraction and cellular signaling. Proper localization of α-actinin is vital for muscle function and cellular organization, as α-actinin anchors actin filaments to various intracellular structures, facilitating the transmission of mechanical forces and signals within the cell.