ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Combining with ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and transmitting the signal from one side of the membrane to the other to initiate a change in cell activity. [GOC:mah, GOC:signaling]

Ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor activity is a molecular function involved in the signaling pathways that regulate the development, survival, and function of various cell types, particularly those in the nervous system. The receptor, upon binding to its ligand, ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), initiates a cascade of intracellular events. These events ultimately lead to the activation of downstream signaling molecules, such as JAK/STAT and MAPK pathways. This activation promotes cell survival, differentiation, and neurite outgrowth.

Specifically, the receptor acts as a transmembrane protein that spans the cell membrane. The extracellular domain binds CNTF, while the intracellular domain interacts with intracellular signaling molecules. CNTF binding triggers dimerization of the receptor, allowing for the recruitment and activation of Janus kinase (JAK) tyrosine kinases. The activated JAKs then phosphorylate the receptor itself, creating docking sites for signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins. The STAT proteins bind to the phosphorylated receptor, become phosphorylated themselves, and dimerize. These activated STAT dimers translocate to the nucleus, where they bind to DNA and regulate the expression of genes involved in cell survival, differentiation, and other biological processes.

In addition to the JAK/STAT pathway, CNTF receptor activation can also activate the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. This pathway is involved in a variety of cellular processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and survival.

Overall, ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor activity is crucial for the proper development and function of the nervous system. It plays a role in the survival, differentiation, and neurite outgrowth of neurons, as well as in the regulation of glial cell function. This receptor activity has been implicated in a variety of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It is also being investigated as a potential target for the treatment of these and other neurological conditions.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)