EGFR GENE Meaning and
Definition
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The EGFR gene, also known as the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor gene, is a gene that encodes instructions for the synthesis of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor protein. This gene is located on chromosome 7 in humans. The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) is a transmembrane protein that is primarily expressed on the surface of cells in various tissues and organs throughout the body.
The EGFR gene plays a crucial role in regulating cell growth, division, and survival. When activated by the binding of specific ligands, such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), the EGFR protein triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways, including the Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK and PI3K-Akt pathways. These signaling pathways are involved in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and survival.
Mutations or changes in the EGFR gene can lead to alterations in the EGFR protein function, resulting in abnormal cell signaling and dysregulated cellular processes. EGFR gene mutations are particularly notable in some cancers, especially non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Certain mutations in the EGFR gene can make cancer cells more dependent on EGFR signaling for growth and survival, making them more susceptible to targeted therapies that inhibit EGFR, such as EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).
Understanding the genetic characteristics and variations of the EGFR gene is essential for diagnosing and treating various diseases, especially cancer. Further research and advancements in EGFR gene studies may contribute to the development of novel therapies and precision medicine approaches in the future.
Common Misspellings for EGFR GENE
- wgfr gene
- sgfr gene
- dgfr gene
- rgfr gene
- 4gfr gene
- 3gfr gene
- effr gene
- evfr gene
- ebfr gene
- ehfr gene
- eyfr gene
- etfr gene
- egdr gene
- egcr gene
- egvr gene
- eggr gene
- egtr gene
- egrr gene
- egfe gene
- egfd gene
Etymology of EGFR GENE
The term "EGFR gene" is a combination of two components: EGFR and gene.
1. EGFR: EGFR stands for Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor. It refers to a protein receptor found on the surface of cells that binds to epidermal growth factor. The name "epidermal" refers to the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, where this receptor was initially identified. The growth factor refers to its role in stimulating cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation.
2. Gene: The term gene is derived from the Greek word "genos", which means "origin" or "birth". The concept of a gene was developed during the early understanding of inheritance and genetics. Today, it refers to a specific sequence of DNA that carries genetic information and determines particular characteristics or traits present in an organism.
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