EPHA8

Ephrin Type-A Receptor 7 (EPHA7)

Ephrin type-A receptor 7, commonly referred to as EPHA7, is a member of the ephrin receptor subfamily of the protein-tyrosine kinase family. Ephrin receptors are involved in mediating developmental processes, particularly in the nervous system. EPHA7 plays a crucial role in cell signaling, influencing cell adhesion, migration, and positioning.

Structure

EPHA7 is a transmembrane protein that consists of an extracellular region, a single transmembrane segment, and a cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase domain. The extracellular region contains a ligand-binding domain, a cysteine-rich region, and two fibronectin type III repeats. The intracellular domain is responsible for signal transduction.

Function

EPHA7 is primarily involved in the regulation of developmental processes, including:

• Axon Guidance: EPHA7 plays a significant role in the guidance of axons during neural development. It interacts with ephrin ligands to mediate repulsive guidance cues that help in the proper wiring of the nervous system.
• Cell Segregation: It is involved in the segregation of cell populations during embryonic development, ensuring that cells with different fates are properly sorted.
• Tissue Boundary Formation: EPHA7 contributes to the formation of tissue boundaries by mediating cell-cell repulsion, which is essential for the compartmentalization of tissues.

Expression

EPHA7 is expressed in various tissues, with high levels in the developing nervous system. It is also found in adult tissues, including the brain, where it continues to play roles in synaptic plasticity and possibly in neurodegenerative processes.

Clinical Significance

EPHA7 has been implicated in several diseases and conditions:

• Cancer: Altered expression of EPHA7 has been observed in various cancers, including glioblastoma and colorectal cancer. It may function as a tumor suppressor or oncogene depending on the context.
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Given its role in neural development, mutations or dysregulation of EPHA7 may contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the precise mechanisms by which EPHA7 influences cell behavior and its potential as a therapeutic target in cancer and neurological disorders.

Also see

• Ephrin receptor
• Axon guidance
• Neural development
• Protein-tyrosine kinase

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