Neuregulins

Neuregulins or NRGs are a family of four structurally related proteins that are part of the ErbB family of tyrosine kinase receptors. These proteins have been implicated in a variety of biological processes, including neurodevelopment, heart development, and cancer.

Structure

Neuregulins are synthesized as precursor proteins and are then processed by proteolysis to generate the mature proteins. The mature neuregulins are composed of an EGF-like domain, which is necessary for their interaction with the ErbB receptors, and a transmembrane domain, which anchors the proteins to the cell membrane.

Function

Neuregulins play a crucial role in the development and function of the nervous system. They are involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, cell survival, and cell differentiation. In the nervous system, neuregulins are involved in the formation of synapses, the junctions between neurons that allow them to communicate with each other.

In the heart, neuregulins are involved in the regulation of cardiomyocyte proliferation and differentiation, and they play a crucial role in the development of the heart ventricles.

In cancer, neuregulins can act as oncogenes, promoting the growth and survival of cancer cells. However, they can also act as tumor suppressors, inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

Clinical significance

Due to their role in cell proliferation and survival, neuregulins have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including schizophrenia, heart disease, and cancer. In schizophrenia, alterations in neuregulin signaling have been associated with the disease. In heart disease, neuregulins have been shown to have protective effects, and they are being investigated as potential therapeutic agents. In cancer, neuregulins can promote the growth and survival of cancer cells, and they are being investigated as potential targets for cancer therapy.

See also

• ErbB
• Tyrosine kinase
• Neurodevelopment
• Heart development
• Cancer

Neuregulins Resources
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