Filamins in cell signaling, transcription and organ development

Filamins are large actin-binding proteins that stabilize delicate three-dimensional actin filament networks and link them to cellular membranes where they integrate cell architectural and signaling functions important for cell locomotion. Filamins have been shown to bind to proteins with diverse functions and are implicated in human genetic diseases including malformations of the skeleton, brain, and heart. Mouse models of filamin deficiency have advanced our understanding of the important roles filamins play in embryonic development and disease progression. These studies provide clear evidence that cytoskeletal filamin proteins integrate cell signaling, transcription and organ development. This review focuses on the emerging roles of filamins in cell signaling and transcription, with emphasis on cell motility and organ development.