ERB-26

ERB-26 is a protein that is encoded by the ERB-26 gene in humans. It is a member of the ErbB family of receptor tyrosine kinases, which also includes ErbB1, ErbB2, and ErbB3. These proteins play a crucial role in cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis.

Function

The ERB-26 protein is a transmembrane protein that is activated by the binding of ligands, such as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and transforming growth factor alpha (TGFα). Upon activation, ERB-26 undergoes a process known as dimerization, which allows it to interact with other members of the ErbB family and initiate a cascade of intracellular signaling events.

These signaling events regulate various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, cell migration, and cell survival. Dysregulation of ERB-26 and other ErbB proteins has been implicated in a number of cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer.

Clinical significance

Given its role in cell growth and survival, ERB-26 is a potential target for cancer therapy. Several monoclonal antibodies and small molecule inhibitors that target ERB-26 and other ErbB proteins are currently in clinical use or under development. These include trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody that targets ErbB2, and gefitinib, a small molecule inhibitor of ErbB1.

See also

• ErbB
• Receptor tyrosine kinase
• Epidermal growth factor
• Transforming growth factor alpha

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