V-Src

V-Src is a gene that encodes a protein known as Src (pronounced "sarc" as in "sarcoma"). The Src family kinases (SFKs) are a group of non-receptor tyrosine kinases that play a pivotal role in cell signaling pathways that control a diverse range of biological processes, including cell division, motility, adhesion, and survival. V-Src is the oncogenic counterpart of the cellular Src (c-Src), with the "V" denoting its discovery as a viral gene responsible for the transforming ability of the Rous sarcoma virus (RSV).

Discovery

V-Src was one of the first oncogenes to be identified. It was discovered through research on RSV, which is capable of inducing sarcomas in chickens. This research led to the groundbreaking discovery that the viral Src gene (v-src) was responsible for the oncogenic activity of the virus, while the cellular counterpart (c-Src) was later found to be involved in normal cellular function.

Function

The V-Src protein is a constitutively active tyrosine kinase that phosphorylates specific tyrosine residues on target proteins. This aberrant kinase activity leads to the activation of multiple signaling pathways that promote oncogenic processes such as uncontrolled cell proliferation, survival, and metastasis. Unlike its cellular counterpart, V-Src lacks the regulatory mechanisms that normally control kinase activity, making it a potent inducer of cancer.

Clinical Significance

The study of V-Src has provided valuable insights into the mechanisms of cancer development and progression. It has highlighted the importance of tyrosine kinases as therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. Inhibitors targeting the Src family kinases are currently being evaluated in clinical trials for their potential to treat various types of cancer.

Related Proteins

The Src family kinases include several members, such as Src, Fyn, Yes, Lyn, Hck, Lck, and Blk, all of which share similar structural and functional characteristics. These kinases are involved in regulating diverse cellular processes and are implicated in various diseases, including cancer, when dysregulated.

See Also

• Oncogene
• Tyrosine kinase
• Cell signaling
• Cancer therapy