Atypical FERM-like domain C-lobe of Sorting nexin 17
SNX17 is a beta1-integrin-tail-binding protein that interacts with the free kindlin-binding site in endosomes to stabilize beta1 integrins, resulting in their recycling to the cell surface where they can be reused. SNX17 contains a N-terminal PX domain, a FERM-like domain, and a unique C-terminal region. SNX17 binds Ras GTPase through its FERM-like domains. The PX domain of SNXs binds PIs and targets the protein to PI-enriched membranes. These interactions place the PX-FERM-like proteins at a hub of endosomal sorting and signaling processes. These proteins participate in a network of interactions that will impact on both endosomal protein trafficking and compartment specific Ras signaling cascades. The typical FERM domain has a cloverleaf tripart structure composed of: (1) FERM_N (A-lobe or F1); (2) FERM_M (B-lobe, or F2); and (3) FERM_C (C-lobe or F3). The C-lobe/F3 within the FERM domain is part of the PH domain family. FERM domains are found in cytoskeletal-associated proteins such as ezrin, moesin, radixin, 4.1R, and merlin. These proteins provide a link between the membrane and cytoskeleton and are involved in signal transduction pathways. The FERM domain is also found in protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs), the tyrosine kinases FAK and JAK, in addition to other proteins involved in signaling. This domain is structurally similar to the PH and PTB domains and consequently is capable of binding to both peptides and phospholipids at different sites.