EPHB6

Overview

EPHB3 is a member of the Eph receptor family, which are a group of receptor tyrosine kinases that play a crucial role in developmental processes, particularly in the nervous system and in the formation of the vascular system. EPHB3 is encoded by the EPHB3 gene in humans.

Structure

EPHB3, like other Eph receptors, 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 region is responsible for signal transduction.

Function

EPHB3 is involved in various cellular processes, including cell adhesion, cell migration, and cell positioning. It interacts with ephrin-B ligands, which are membrane-bound proteins, to initiate bidirectional signaling. This signaling is crucial for:

• Axon guidance during neural development.
• Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels.
• Tissue boundary formation and maintenance.

Signaling Pathway

EPHB3 signaling involves both forward and reverse signaling. Forward signaling occurs when EPHB3 binds to its ephrin-B ligands, leading to autophosphorylation and activation of downstream signaling pathways. Reverse signaling occurs in the ephrin-expressing cell, influencing its behavior and function.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in EPHB3 expression and function have been implicated in various diseases, including:

• Cancer: EPHB3 has been shown to play a role in tumor progression and metastasis.
• Neurodevelopmental disorders: Abnormal EPHB3 signaling can affect brain development and function.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the precise mechanisms of EPHB3 signaling and its role in disease. Targeting EPHB3 and its pathways is being explored as a potential therapeutic strategy in cancer and other diseases.

Also see

• Eph receptor family
• Ephrin ligands
• Receptor tyrosine kinase
• Cell signaling

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