INTRODUCTION
Tyrosine kinase receptors, also known as receptor tyrosine kinases
(RTKs), are a class of cell surface receptors that play a crucial role in
transmitting signals within cells and regulating various cellular
processes.
These receptors are a fundamental component of cellular
communication and are involved in processes such as cell growth,
differentiation, proliferation, and survival.
Their discovery and understanding have had profound implications
in the fields of cell biology, physiology, and cancer research.
TYPES OF TYROSINE KINASE RECEPTOR
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Family
Insulin Receptor Family
Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor (PDGFR) Family
Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR) Family
Neurotrophic Tyrosine Kinase Receptors
Cytokine Receptor
MECHANISM OF ACTION RTKS
CONTINUE
Ligand Binding: The process begins when a specific ligand, such as a growth
factor, hormone, or cytokine, binds to the extracellular domain of the tyrosine
kinase receptor. This binding leads to conformational changes in the receptor.
Receptor Dimerization: Ligand binding often triggers the receptor to form dimers
(pairs of receptor molecules) or higher-order oligomers (groups of receptor
molecules), depending on the receptor type. This dimerization brings two or more
receptor monomers together in close proximity.
Autophosphorylation: The intracellular kinase domains of the receptor monomers
within the dimer are activated upon dimerization. These kinase domains
phosphorylate specific tyrosine residues on both the receptor itself and its
dimerization partner in a process known as autophosphorylation.
CONTINUE
Docking Proteins: The phosphorylated tyrosine residues on the
activated receptor serve as docking sites for various intracellular
signaling proteins, such as adapter molecules and enzymes.
Signal Transduction: The binding of intracellular signaling proteins to
the phosphorylated tyrosine residues on the receptor initiates a cascade
of intracellular signaling events. These events can include the activation
of downstream kinases, phosphatases, and other signaling molecules.
Cellular Responses: The intracellular signaling pathways triggered by
tyrosine kinase receptors can lead to various cellular responses,
depending on the specific receptor and the downstream effectors
involved.
ROLE IN HEALTH
Cell Growth and Differentiation: TKRs are crucial for normal cell growth,
development, and differentiation. They play essential roles in tissue repair,
embryonic development, and the maintenance of healthy organs and tissues.
Immune Response: TKRs are involved in immune cell signaling, helping to
coordinate immune responses against infections and foreign invaders. For
example, some TKRs play a role in the activation and proliferation of immune
cells like T cells and B cells.
Metabolic Regulation: Insulin receptors, a type of TKR, are essential for
regulating blood glucose levels. They help cells take up glucose from the
bloodstream, contributing to overall metabolic health.
ROLE IN HEALTH
Vascular Development: Vascular endothelial growth factor receptors
(VEGFRs) are responsible for regulating blood vessel formation
(angiogenesis) during development and tissue repair.
Nervous System Development: Neurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptors (Trk
receptors) are crucial for the development and maintenance of the nervous
system. They promote the survival and growth of neurons.
ROLE IN DISEASE
Cancer
Diabetes
Autoimmune Diseases
Cardiovascular Disease
Neurological Disorders
Inflammatory Disorders
Rare Genetic Disorders
FUTURE DIRECTION
Precision Medicine and Targeted Therapies
Combination Therapies
Functional Genomics
Immunotherapies
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Rare Diseases
Personalized Medicine
