Ezrin

Ezrin also known as cytovillin or villin-2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the EZR gene.

Structure

The N-terminus of ezrin contains a FERM domain which is further subdivided into three subdomains. The C-terminus contain a ERM domain.

Function

The cytoplasmic peripheral membrane protein encoded by this gene functions as a protein-tyrosine kinase substrate in microvilli. As a member of the ERM protein family, this protein serves as an intermediate between the plasma membrane and the actin cytoskeleton. It plays a key role in cell surface structure adhesion, migration, and organization.

The N-terminal FERM domain strongly binds sodium-hydrogen exchanger regulatory factor (NHERF) proteins (involving long-range allostery). The C-terminal binds to actin, phosphatidylinositol(4,5)bis-phosphate (PIP2) and membrane proteins like CD44 and ICAM-2.