Understanding ERM proteins – the awesome power of genetics finally brought to bear

In epithelial cells, the Ezrin, Radixin and Moesin (ERM) proteins are involved in many cellular functions, including regulation of actin cytoskeleton, control of cell shape, adhesion and motility, and modulation of signaling pathways. However, discerning the specific cellular roles of ERMs has been complicated by redundancy between these proteins. Recent genetic studies in model organisms have identified unique roles for ERM proteins. These include the regulation of morphogenesis and maintenance of integrity of epithelial cells, stabilization of intercellular junctions, and regulation of the Rho small GTPase. These studies also suggest that ERMs have roles in actomyosin contractility and vesicular trafficking in the apical domain of epithelial cells. Thus, genetic analysis has enhanced our understanding of these widely expressed membrane-associated proteins.