Recombinant Proteins
Product List
MET Human
Met Proto-Oncogene Human Recombinant
MET is purified by proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Introduction
The Met proto-oncogene, also known as the MET gene, encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase known as the hepatocyte growth factor receptor (HGFR). This receptor is involved in various cellular processes, including growth, survival, and differentiation. The MET gene is classified as a proto-oncogene because mutations or overexpression can lead to its conversion into an oncogene, which can drive cancer development .
Key Biological Properties: The MET receptor is a transmembrane protein composed of an extracellular domain that binds to its ligand, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and an intracellular tyrosine kinase domain that transduces signals into the cell .
Expression Patterns: MET is expressed in a variety of tissues, including epithelial cells, endothelial cells, myoblasts, and neuronal precursors .
Tissue Distribution: The receptor is predominantly found in the liver, kidney, and muscle tissues, but it is also present in the nervous system and other organs .
Primary Biological Functions: MET plays a crucial role in embryogenesis, organogenesis, and tissue repair. It is involved in processes such as cell proliferation, motility, survival, and morphogenic differentiation .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: While MET is primarily known for its role in development and cancer, it also has functions in immune responses. For example, MET signaling can modulate the immune microenvironment in tumors, influencing immune cell infiltration and activity .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: MET interacts with its ligand HGF to initiate a signaling cascade. Upon HGF binding, MET dimerizes and undergoes autophosphorylation, activating downstream signaling pathways .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: Key downstream pathways include the RAS-MAPK, PI3K-AKT-mTOR, and β-catenin pathways. These pathways regulate various cellular activities such as proliferation, motility, and survival .
Transcriptional Regulation: MET expression is regulated by multiple transcription factors, including Sp1 and Ets-1. Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation also play a role in its regulation .
Post-Translational Modifications: MET undergoes several post-translational modifications, including glycosylation and phosphorylation, which are crucial for its proper localization and function .
Biomedical Research: MET is a significant focus in cancer research due to its role in tumor progression and metastasis. Understanding MET signaling can lead to the development of targeted therapies .
Diagnostic Tools: MET expression levels and mutations are used as biomarkers for certain cancers, aiding in diagnosis and prognosis .
Therapeutic Strategies: Several MET inhibitors, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and monoclonal antibodies, are being developed and tested in clinical trials for their efficacy in treating MET-driven cancers .
Development: MET is essential during embryonic development for organogenesis and tissue differentiation .
Aging and Disease: In adults, MET continues to play a role in tissue repair and regeneration. Dysregulation of MET signaling is associated with various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders .
In summary, the MET proto-oncogene is a critical player in cellular processes ranging from development to disease. Its diverse roles and regulatory mechanisms make it a valuable target for research and therapeutic intervention.
