May function as a linker between cadherin adhesion receptors and the cytoskeleton to regulate cell-cell adhesion and differentiation in the nervous system. Required for proper regulation of cortical neuronal migration and neurite growth. It acts as negative regulator of Arp2/3 complex activity and Arp2/3-mediated actin polymerization. It thereby suppresses excessive actin branching which would impair neurite growth and stability. Regulates morphological plasticity of synapses and cerebellar and hippocampal lamination during development. Functions in the control of startle modulation. Interacts with CDH1 and CDH2 (By similarity). Interacts with ZNF639; recruits CTNNA2 to the nucleus (By similarity). Interacts with F-actin (By similarity). Belongs to the vinculin/alpha-catenin family.