Rat Brain Cells Containing Ezrin (cytovillin)

Ezrin (cytovillin, p81 protein) is an actin-binding protein of the ERM (ezrin-radixin-moesin) family, members of which have roles in stabilizing structures formed by the plasmalemma. The aim of the present work was to study rat brain cells containing ezrin and to identify their topography and structural characteristics. The most intense immunocytochemical reaction for ezrin was seen in the epithelium of the choroid plexus, the subcommissural organ, and the ventricular ependyma. In addition, unidentified cells in the subventricular zone, the rostral migratory pathway, and astrocytes in various parts of the brain were identified. The predominant location of ezrin in brain cells forming barrier structures provides evidence of its involvement in supporting CNS transport processes.