IAP proteins: regulators of cell migration and development

The cytoprotective properties of vertebrate inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins have been the subject of much study. These proteins have, however, emerged as key signaling intermediates modulating a variety of cellular functions through their ability to act as E3 ubiquitin ligases. This review will focus on the cell death-independent roles of the IAP proteins, focusing on recent reports indicating that c-IAPs and XIAP are key molecules involved in modulating cell migration and development.