ERM proteins
ERM proteins (Ezrin-Radixin-Moesin proteins)
Ezrin (VIL2), radixin (RDX) (MIM.179410), and moesin (MSN) (MIM.309845), the so-called ERM proteins (Ezrin-Radixin-Moesin proteins), act as linkers between the plasma membrane and the actin cytoskeleton.
ERM proteins are involved in a variety of cellular functions, such as cell adhesion, cell migration, and the organization of cell surface structures. ERM proteins are highly homologous, both in protein structure and in functional activity, with merlin/schwannomin, the NF2 tumor suppressor protein (MIM.607379).
For example, VIL2 (ezrin or cytovillin) is a microvillar cytoplasmic peripheral membrane protein that is expressed strongly in placental syncytiotrophoblasts and in certain human tumors. VIL2 is a component of the microvilli of intestinal epithelial cells that serves as a major cytoplasmic substrate for certain protein-tyrosine kinases.
Pathology
metastasis of osteosarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma
- signaling between metastasis-associated cell-surface molecules and signal transduction components
References
Hunter KW. Ezrin, a key component in tumor metastasis.
Trends Mol Med. 2004 May 1;10(5):201-204. PMID: #15121044#