Membrane-targeting of signalling molecules by SH2/SH3 domain-containing adaptor proteins

SH2/SH3 domain-containing adaptor proteins play a critical role in regulating tyrosine kinase signalling pathways. The major function of these adaptors, such as Grb2, Nck, and Crk, is to recruit proline-rich effector molecules to tyrosine-phosphorylated kinases or their substrates. In recent years dozens of novel proteins have emerged that are capable of associating with the SH2 and the SH3 domains of adaptors. In this review, the author attempts to summarise these novel binding partners of Grb2, Nck, and Crk, and to discuss current controversies regarding function and regulation of protein multicomplexes held together by SH2/SH3 adaptor molecules at the plasma membrane.