TGF beta receptors

TGF beta receptors are a group of receptor proteins that bind and respond to transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). These receptors play a crucial role in regulating cell growth, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and apoptosis. They are part of the larger family of serine/threonine protein kinases.

Types of TGF beta receptors

There are three types of TGF-β receptors: TGF-β receptor type 1 (TGFBR1), TGF-β receptor type 2 (TGFBR2), and TGF-β receptor type 3 (TGFBR3). Each type has a unique structure and function.

TGF-β receptor type 1

TGF-β receptor type 1 (TGFBR1), also known as ALK5, is a protein encoded by the TGFBR1 gene in humans. It is a transmembrane protein that has a serine/threonine kinase domain. Upon binding of TGF-β, TGFBR1 phosphorylates and activates SMAD proteins, which then regulate the transcription of target genes.

TGF-β receptor type 2

TGF-β receptor type 2 (TGFBR2) is a protein encoded by the TGFBR2 gene in humans. It is a transmembrane protein that binds TGF-β and then forms a complex with TGFBR1, leading to the activation of the SMAD pathway.

TGF-β receptor type 3

TGF-β receptor type 3 (TGFBR3), also known as betaglycan, is a protein encoded by the TGFBR3 gene in humans. Unlike TGFBR1 and TGFBR2, TGFBR3 does not have a kinase domain and cannot signal on its own. Instead, it acts as a co-receptor that enhances the binding of TGF-β to TGFBR2.

Role in disease

Mutations in TGF beta receptors have been associated with several diseases, including Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, and various types of cancer. In cancer, these mutations often lead to a loss of function of the receptors, resulting in uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation.

See also

• Transforming growth factor beta
• Receptor (biochemistry)
• SMAD (protein)

References

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