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Multiple positive and negative regulators of signaling by the EGF-receptor

N Moghal1, P W Sternberg

  • 1Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Division of Biology, 156-29 Caltech, 391 South Holliston Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.

Current Opinion in Cell Biology
|April 21, 1999
PubMed

Insights

The epidermal growth factor (EGF)-receptor family regulates cell growth and is vital for development. Dysregulation of this pathway, through mutations or amplification, is frequently observed in human cancers.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Signaling
  • Oncology

Background:

  • The epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor family plays a critical role in cellular processes.
  • It serves as a key model for understanding receptor tyrosine kinases.
  • Aberrant signaling in this pathway is implicated in various human cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the complex regulatory mechanisms governing EGF-receptor family signaling.
  • To highlight the family's importance in development and disease.
  • To underscore the implications of EGF-receptor pathway dysregulation in tumorigenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of signaling pathways.
  • Analysis of receptor tyrosine kinase regulation.
  • Examination of genetic alterations in cancer.

Main Results:

  • EGF-receptor signaling is modulated by ligands, effectors, and negative regulators.
  • Heterodimerization and crosstalk with other pathways add layers of complexity.
  • Mutations and amplification of EGF-receptor family members are common in human tumors.

Conclusions:

  • The EGF-receptor family is a highly regulated system crucial for normal development.
  • Its dysregulation represents a significant factor in the pathogenesis of human cancers.
  • Understanding these regulatory networks is vital for therapeutic strategies.

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