The expanding repertoire of ESCRT functions in cell biology and disease.

Hurley, James H; Coyne, Alyssa N; Miączyńska, Marta; Stenmark, Harald · Nature · 2025

review · Level V

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Abstract

The endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) is a multicomplex machinery comprising proteins that are conserved from bacteria to humans and has diverse roles in regulating the dynamics of cellular membranes. ESCRT functions have far-reaching consequences for cell biological processes such as intracellular traffic, membrane repair, cell signalling, metabolic regulation, cell division and genome maintenance. Here we review recent insights that emphasize the pathophysiological consequences of ESCRT dysfunctions, including infections, immune disorders, cancers and neurological diseases. We highlight the possibilities of using our knowledge about ESCRT structures and functions for drug discovery.

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