Functions as a molecular adapter coordinating multiple protein-protein interactions at the focal adhesion complex and in the nucleus. May regulate both Wnt and steroid signaling pathways and play a role in the processes of cell growth, proliferation, migration, differentiation and senescence. May have a zinc-dependent DNA-binding activity. Interacts with tcf3 and tcf7l2. Associated with the actin cytoskeleton; colocalizes with stress fibers. The LIM zinc-binding domains mediate glucocorticoid receptor coactivation and mediates interaction with tcf3 and tcf7l2. The LIM zinc-binding 2 and LIM zinc-binding 3 domains mediate targeting to focal adhesions and actin stress fibers. The LIM zinc-binding 4 domain mediates targeting to the nuclear matrix (By similarity). The LD (leucine and aspartate-rich) motif 3 functions as a nuclear export signal. Belongs to the paxillin family.