Proto-oncogene protein c-Met, also known as the cellular-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met), is a type of protein that is encoded by the MET gene in humans. It is a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase that plays a crucial role in cell growth, survival, and migration.
The c-Met protein serves as a receptor for hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), also known as scatter factor (SF), which binds to the extracellular domain of c-Met, leading to receptor dimerization and activation. Upon activation, the c-Met protein initiates a cascade of cellular processes through various downstream signaling pathways, including the MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and STAT pathways. These pathways regulate crucial cellular functions, such as cell proliferation, survival, motility, and invasive behavior.
Mutations or dysregulation of the Proto-oncogene protein c-Met can lead to abnormal cell growth and contribute to the development of cancer. Overexpression or constitutive activation of c-Met has been linked to various types of cancer, including lung, liver, breast, and gastric cancer. Therefore, c-Met has emerged as a promising target for anticancer therapies.
In conclusion, proto-oncogene protein c-Met is a transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase that plays a vital role in regulating cell growth, migration, and survival. Dysregulation or mutations in c-Met can lead to the development and progression of cancer, making it an important target for cancer therapies.
