The JNK-interacting protein (JIP) group of scaffold proteins selectively mediates JNK signaling by aggregating specific components of the MAPK cascade to form a functional JNK signaling module (PubMed:12189133). May function as a regulator of vesicle transport, through interactions with the JNK-signaling components and motor proteins (By similarity). Promotes neuronal axon elongation in a kinesin- and JNK-dependent manner. Activates cofilin at axon tips via local activation of JNK, thereby regulating filopodial dynamics and enhancing axon elongation. Its binding to kinesin heavy chains (KHC), promotes kinesin-1 motility along microtubules and is essential for axon elongation and regeneration. Regulates cortical neuronal migration by mediating NTRK2/TRKB anterograde axonal transport during brain development (By similarity). Acts as an adapter that bridges the interaction between NTRK2/TRKB and KLC1 and drives NTRK2/TRKB axonal but not dendritic anterograde transport, which is essential for subsequent BDNF-triggered signaling and filopodia formation (PubMed:21775604).
