Ezrin, Moesin and Radixin belong to a family of highly homologous actin-associated proteins that are localized just beneath the plasma membrane. The proteins are believed to be involved in the mediation of interactions between cytoskeletal and membrane proteins. Ezrin serves as a major cytoplasmic substrate of various protein-tyrosine kinases, including the epidermal growth factor receptor. Ezrin has also been identified as a cAMP-dependent protein kinase (A-kinase) anchoring protein and designated AKAP78. Moesin and Radixin share over 70% homology with Ezrin and are co-expressed within various cell types. Despite the high degree of homology, the three proteins exhibit a distinct receptor-specific pattern of phosphorylation.
