Role of ezrin-radixin-moesin proteins in the regulation of inflammatory cytokine expression in activated microglia.

The ERM protein family, comprising ezrin, radixin, and moesin, mediates membrane-cytoskeleton interactions, regulating key cellular functions. This study investigated the expression of ERM proteins in microglia surrounding amyloid plaques in App^NL-F knock-in mice and their role in inflammatory responses. Moesin was predominantly localized to plaque-associated microglia, and in vitro knockdown experiments revealed distinct roles of ERM proteins in cytokine regulation. These findings suggest that each ERM protein contributes to microglial function through distinct mechanisms. Further elucidating the roles of individual ERM proteins in microglial function may lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases.