Trk

Trk is a family of tyrosine kinases that includes TrkA, TrkB, and TrkC. These proteins are key players in the development and function of the nervous system. They are named after the oncogene that was originally identified in a colon carcinoma cell line. The Trk family of receptors was discovered through studies of this oncogene.

Function

Trk receptors are involved in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. They are activated by neurotrophins, which are proteins that promote the survival and differentiation of neurons. The binding of a neurotrophin to a Trk receptor triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling events that ultimately lead to changes in gene expression.

Structure

Trk receptors are transmembrane proteins with an extracellular domain that binds neurotrophins, a transmembrane domain, and an intracellular domain that contains the tyrosine kinase activity. The extracellular domain of Trk receptors is composed of a series of leucine-rich repeats and two cysteine-rich clusters.

Clinical significance

Mutations in Trk receptors have been implicated in several neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, depression, and certain types of cancer. In addition, Trk receptors are targets for several drugs used in the treatment of these conditions.

See also

• Neurotrophin
• Tyrosine kinase
• Alzheimer's disease
• Depression
• Cancer

References

Trk Resources
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