BORG family proteins in physiology and human disease

The binder of rho GTPases (BORG)/Cdc42 effector proteins (Cdc42EP) family is composed of five Rho GTPase binding proteins whose functions and mechanism of actions are of emerging interest. Here, we review recent findings pertaining to the family as a whole and consider how these change our understanding of cellular organization. Recent studies have implicated BORGs in both fundamental physiology and in human diseases, mainly cancers. An emerging pattern suggests that BORG family members cancer-promoting properties are related to their ability to regulate the cytoskeleton, with many impacting the organization of acto-myosin stress fibers. This is consistent with the broader literature indicating that BORG family members are regulators of both the septin and actin cytoskeleton networks. The exact mechanism through which BORGs modify the cytoskeleton is not clear, but we consider here a few data-supported and speculative possibilities. Finally, we delve into how the Rho GTPase Cdc42 modifies BORG function in cells. This remains open-ended as Cdc42's effects on BORGs appear cell type- and cell state-dependent. Collectively, these data point to the importance of the BORG family and suggest broader themes in their function and regulation.

Automated summary

The BORG/Cdc42 effector proteins family, consisting of five Rho GTPase binding proteins, has garnered significant interest due to its functions and mechanism of actions. Recent research findings have provided valuable insights into the family as a whole, reshaping our understanding of cellular organization. These studies have linked BORGs to fundamental physiology as well as human diseases, particularly cancers, suggesting that their cancer-promoting properties are related to their regulation of the cytoskeleton. This correlation aligns with existing evidence indicating that BORG family members regulate both the septin and actin cytoskeleton networks. Although the exact mechanism through which BORGs modify the cytoskeleton remains unclear, several data-supported and speculative possibilities have been proposed. Furthermore, the influence of the Rho GTPase Cdc42 on BORG function in cells appears to be cell type- and cell state-dependent, adding complexity to the overall picture. Collectively, these findings emphasize the significance of the BORG family and highlight broader themes in their function and regulation.