What's a CLIC doing in the podocyte?

Chloride intracellular channel (CLIC) proteins are proposed to have numerous functions, including chloride channel activity, regulation of gene expression, and serving as a component of the cytoskeleton. Pierchala et al. have identified CLIC5A in podocytes, where it is complexed with ezrin, podocalyxin, and the actin cytoskeleton. Absence of CLIC5A results in altered podocyte morphology and proteinuria. Exactly how CLIC5A supports podocyte function is unclear. Potential mechanisms in which cytoskeletal interactions could regulate other functions of CLIC5A are discussed.