Emerging role for ERM proteins in cell adhesion and migration

Abstract

The highly related ER M (Ezrin, Radixin, Moesin) proteins provide a regulated linkage between the membrane and the underlying actin cytoskeleton. They also provide a platform for the transmission of signals in responses to extracellular cues. Studies in different model organisms and in cultured cells have highlighted the importance of ER M proteins in the generation and maintenance of specific domains of the plasma membrane. A central question is how do ER M proteins coordinate actin filament organization and membrane protein transport/stability with signal transduction pathways to build up complex structures? Through their interaction with numerous partners including membrane proteins, actin cytoskeleton and signaling molecules, ER M proteins have the ability to organize multiprotein complexes in specific cellular compartments. Likewise, ER M proteins participate in diverse functions including cell morphogenesis, endocytosis/ exocytosis, adhesion and migration. This review focuses on aspects still poorly understood related to the function of ER M proteins in epithelial cell adhesion and migration. © 2011 Landes Bioscience.