Neuropilin

Neuropilin

Diagram of Neuropilin structure

Neuropilin is a type of transmembrane protein that plays a crucial role in the development of the nervous system and the vascular system. Neuropilins are involved in various cellular processes, including axon guidance, angiogenesis, and immune response.

Structure

Neuropilins are single-pass transmembrane proteins that consist of several distinct domains. These include the a1/a2 and b1/b2 domains, which are involved in binding to semaphorins and vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), respectively. The MAM domain is important for dimerization, and the c domain is a short cytoplasmic tail that interacts with intracellular signaling molecules.

Function

Neuropilins serve as co-receptors for both semaphorins and VEGFs. In the context of the nervous system, neuropilins bind to semaphorins, which are signaling molecules that guide the growth of neurons and their axons. This interaction is critical for the proper wiring of the nervous system during development.

In the vascular system, neuropilins bind to VEGFs, which are key regulators of angiogenesis, the process by which new blood vessels form from pre-existing vessels. Neuropilins enhance the binding of VEGFs to their primary receptors, thereby modulating the angiogenic response.

Role in Disease

Neuropilins have been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, where they are often overexpressed and contribute to tumor growth and metastasis by promoting angiogenesis. They are also involved in cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative disorders.

Therapeutic Potential

Given their role in angiogenesis and axon guidance, neuropilins are considered potential targets for therapeutic intervention in diseases such as cancer and retinal disorders. Inhibitors of neuropilin function are being explored as possible treatments to block pathological angiogenesis and tumor progression.

Related pages

• Semaphorin
• Vascular endothelial growth factor
• Axon guidance
• Angiogenesis