The proto-oncogene protein kit, also known as c-kit or CD117, is a type of transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor protein encoded by the c-kit gene. It belongs to the family of proto-oncogenes, which are normal genes that can be transformed into oncogenes, leading to the development of cancer.
The c-kit proto-oncogene protein kit plays a critical role in the regulation and control of cell growth, differentiation, and survival. It binds and responds to a specific protein called stem cell factor (SCF), also known as c-kit ligand or steel factor. The binding of SCF to the proto-oncogene protein kit triggers a series of intracellular signaling pathways, leading to cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival.
Abnormal activation or overexpression of the proto-oncogene protein kit can be associated with the development and progression of various types of cancer, including gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and some forms of lung and breast cancer. Consequently, the c-kit proto-oncogene protein kit has become an important target for therapeutic interventions, and targeted drugs that inhibit its activity, such as imatinib mesylate, have been developed to treat certain types of cancer.
In summary, the proto-oncogene protein kit is a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor protein encoded by the c-kit gene. It plays a critical role in cell growth, differentiation, and survival, and its abnormal activation or overexpression can contribute to the development of various cancers.
