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The c-Fes family of protein-tyrosine kinases
T E Smithgall1, J A Rogers, K L Peters
1Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha 68198-6805, USA.
Abstract:
The human c-fes protooncogene encodes a protein-tyrosine kinase (c-Fes) distinct from c-Src, c-Abl and other nonreceptor tyrosine kinases. Although originally identified as the cellular homolog of several transforming retroviral oncoproteins, Fes was later found to exhibit strong expression in myeloid hematopoietic cells and to play a direct role in their differentiation. Recent work has shown that Fes exhibits a more widespread expression pattern in both developing and adult tissues, suggesting a general physiological function for this kinase and its closely related homolog, Fer. This review highlights the unique aspects of Fes structure, regulation, and function that set it apart from other tyrosine kinase families.
Insights
The c-Fes protein-tyrosine kinase, initially linked to cancer, plays a vital role in cell differentiation. Its widespread expression suggests broader physiological functions beyond its oncogenic associations.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- The human c-Fes protooncogene encodes a protein-tyrosine kinase (c-Fes) with unique structural and functional properties.
- Initially identified as a homolog of viral oncoproteins, c-Fes is now recognized for its significant role in myeloid hematopoietic cell differentiation.
- Recent findings indicate a broader expression pattern of Fes and its homolog Fer in various developing and adult tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the unique structural, regulatory, and functional aspects of c-Fes.
- To differentiate c-Fes from other nonreceptor tyrosine kinase families like c-Src and c-Abl.
- To highlight the emerging understanding of c-Fes's general physiological roles.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on c-Fes and related tyrosine kinases.
- Analysis of structural, regulatory, and functional data from published research.
- Comparative analysis of c-Fes with other tyrosine kinase families.
Main Results:
- c-Fes possesses distinct structural features compared to other tyrosine kinases.
- Fes plays a critical role in myeloid cell differentiation.
- Widespread tissue expression suggests diverse physiological functions for Fes and Fer.
Conclusions:
- c-Fes is a unique protein-tyrosine kinase with significant roles in cell differentiation and broader physiological functions.
- Understanding c-Fes's distinct characteristics is crucial for differentiating it from other tyrosine kinase families.
- Further research into Fes and Fer may uncover novel therapeutic targets.