ephrin receptor signaling pathway

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The series of molecular signals initiated by ephrin binding to its receptor, and ending with the regulation of a downstream cellular process, e.g. transcription. [GOC:ceb]

Ephrin receptors are a family of transmembrane proteins that mediate cell-cell interactions, playing crucial roles in a wide range of developmental and physiological processes. They function as receptors for ephrin ligands, another family of transmembrane proteins expressed on neighboring cells. Ephrin receptor signaling is initiated upon binding of an ephrin ligand to its cognate receptor, leading to a cascade of intracellular events. These events involve activation of cytoplasmic tyrosine kinases, known as Eph receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), which then phosphorylate intracellular signaling molecules. The phosphorylation of these downstream targets triggers various signaling pathways, leading to diverse cellular responses, including cell migration, adhesion, differentiation, and axon guidance. The process of ephrin receptor signaling can be broadly categorized into two distinct modes: forward signaling and reverse signaling. Forward signaling occurs when ephrin ligands bind to Eph receptors on neighboring cells, activating the receptor and initiating intracellular signaling cascades within the receptor-bearing cell. In contrast, reverse signaling occurs when Eph receptors bind to ephrin ligands on the same cell, triggering signaling events within the cell expressing the ephrin ligand. This bidirectional communication mediated by ephrin receptor signaling is crucial for establishing cell-cell interactions and regulating various developmental and physiological processes. The Eph/ephrin system exhibits a remarkable degree of complexity, with 14 Eph receptors and 8 ephrin ligands identified in mammals. This complexity arises from the diverse combinations of Eph receptors and ephrin ligands, leading to a wide range of signaling responses depending on the specific receptors and ligands involved. Furthermore, the precise cellular responses elicited by ephrin receptor signaling are influenced by a multitude of factors, including the cellular context, the expression levels of Eph receptors and ephrin ligands, and the presence of other signaling pathways. The importance of ephrin receptor signaling is underscored by its involvement in various physiological processes, including angiogenesis, immune responses, and wound healing. Moreover, dysregulation of ephrin receptor signaling has been implicated in several pathological conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Ongoing research continues to unravel the intricate details of ephrin receptor signaling, further highlighting its crucial role in regulating cell-cell interactions and contributing to diverse physiological and pathological processes.'
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Proteins (34)

Compounds (613)