ERBB GENE Meaning and
Definition
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erbB gene refers to a family of genes that encode for receptor proteins involved in cell signaling, specifically in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation. The erbB gene family is named after the avian erythroblastosis virus, which was first found to carry a gene responsible for causing erythroblastosis (a disease leading to the excessive production of immature red blood cells) in birds.
There are four known members of the erbB gene family: erbB1 (also known as the epidermal growth factor receptor or EGFR), erbB2 (also known as HER2/neu), erbB3, and erbB4. These genes are located on different chromosomes and code for proteins with a similar structure. Each protein functions as a receptor for a specific growth factor or ligand.
The erbB genes play crucial roles in normal cell growth and development, as well as in cancer progression. Factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) bind to the receptors encoded by erbB genes, initiating a signaling cascade that ultimately regulates gene expression and cell proliferation. Abnormalities or mutations in these genes can lead to uncontrolled growth and division of cells, contributing to the development of various cancers, including breast, lung, and ovarian cancers.
Understanding the structure and function of the erbB genes and their corresponding proteins has paved the way for targeted therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which specifically target and inhibit the activity of these receptors, providing effective treatment options for patients with erbB gene-related cancers.
Common Misspellings for ERBB GENE
- wrbb gene
- srbb gene
- drbb gene
- rrbb gene
- 4rbb gene
- 3rbb gene
- eebb gene
- edbb gene
- efbb gene
- etbb gene
- e5bb gene
- e4bb gene
- ervb gene
- ernb gene
- erhb gene
- ergb gene
- erbv gene
- erbn gene
- erbh gene
- erbg gene
Etymology of ERBB GENE
The word "erbB gene" is derived from the name of the protein it encodes, which is derived from the name of an oncogene called ERBB. The oncogene was originally discovered in the 1980s and was named after its resemblance to the erythroblastosis virus, which causes a type of cancer in chickens called erythroblastosis. Initial studies found that the ERBB gene plays a crucial role in the development of certain cancers, particularly breast cancer, hence the inclusion of "B" in its name. Over time, further research led to the discovery of multiple subtypes or variants of the ERBB gene, which were designated as erbB1, erbB2, erbB3, and erbB4. The name "erbB gene" refers to the entire family of genes including all these subtypes.
Similar spelling words for ERBB GENE
