FLT4 Human

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-3 (VEGFR-3), also known as Fms-like tyrosine kinase 4 (FLT4), is a receptor tyrosine kinase that plays a crucial role in the regulation of lymphangiogenesis, the formation of lymphatic vessels from pre-existing lymphatics. This receptor is primarily activated by its ligands, VEGF-C and VEGF-D, which are members of the VEGF family of growth factors.

VEGFR-3 is composed of an extracellular ligand-binding domain, a single transmembrane helix, and an intracellular tyrosine kinase domain. Upon binding to its ligands, VEGFR-3 undergoes dimerization and autophosphorylation, which triggers downstream signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation, migration, and survival.

VEGFR-3 is predominantly expressed in lymphatic endothelial cells and is essential for the development and maintenance of the lymphatic system. The activation of VEGFR-3 by VEGF-C and VEGF-D promotes the growth and remodeling of lymphatic vessels, which is critical for maintaining fluid homeostasis, immune responses, and fat absorption.

The VEGF-C/VEGFR-3 signaling axis is also implicated in tumorigenesis and metastasis. Tumor cells can exploit this pathway to promote lymphangiogenesis and angiogenesis, facilitating the spread of cancer cells to distant organs. Elevated levels of VEGFR-3 have been observed in various cancers, including ovarian, renal, pancreatic, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers .

Given its pivotal role in lymphangiogenesis and cancer progression, VEGFR-3 is a promising target for therapeutic intervention. Inhibitors of VEGFR-3 signaling are being explored as potential treatments for cancer and other diseases characterized by abnormal lymphangiogenesis.

Human recombinant VEGFR-3 is a laboratory-produced version of the receptor, designed to mimic the natural protein’s structure and function. It is used in research to study the receptor’s role in various biological processes and to develop and test new therapeutic agents targeting VEGFR-3.