Kindlins in FERM adhesion

The Kindlin family of intracellular proteins has recently emerged as key regulators of cellular functions and cell-matrix interactions. The 3 members of this family, Kindlin-1, -2, and -3, perform an essential role in activation of integrin adhesion receptors, and expression of at least 1 Kindlin paralog is required to enable integrin activation in physiologically relevant settings. In humans, deficiencies in Kindlin-3 lead to a number of abnormalities affecting hemostasis, the immune system, and bone function, whereas the lack of Kindlin-1 causes profound skin defects. The importance of Kindlins is underscored by the results of animal knockout studies, which clearly show the indispensable and nonredundant functions of all 3 Kindlins in development and normal physiology. This review discusses recent progress in the studies of Kindlin protein family, emphasizing newly identified functions and potential mechanisms underlying differential activities of the family members.