Phospho-EZR (Thr567) is a biomarker for invasive cancers. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), hyperphosphorylation at Thr567 correlates with metastatic potential. Key findings include:
Mechanistic Role: Thr567 phosphorylation promotes membrane ruffling and cytoskeletal remodeling, enabling tumor cell invasion .
ROCK Dependence: Rho kinase (ROCK) phosphorylates Thr567. Inhibition of ROCK (e.g., via Y27632) reduces phosphorylation and suppresses HCC metastasis .
Clinical Relevance: High phospho-Thr567 levels in HCC embolus samples predict poor patient outcomes .
In placental development, phosphorylated Ezrin facilitates extravillous trophoblast (EVT) migration and invasion. Knockdown experiments using siRNA or inhibitors (e.g., NSC668394) significantly reduce EVT motility, highlighting its role in physiological implantation .
Cross-Reactivity: Detects phospho-Thr567 in Ezrin and homologous sites in Radixin (Thr564) and Moesin (Thr558) .
Validation:
Targeting Ezrin phosphorylation has therapeutic potential: