Neuregulin1 (NRG1) is a member of the neuregulin family of proteins, which are part of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family. These proteins play crucial roles in cell-to-cell communication, influencing the development and repair of various tissues, including the nervous system, heart, and skeletal muscles . NRG1 is known for its diverse isoforms, which arise from alternative splicing of the NRG1 gene located on chromosome 8p12 .
NRG1 isoforms are produced through alternative splicing, resulting in a variety of proteins with different structures and functions . The HRG-beta3 isoform is one of these variants, characterized by its specific EGF-like domain that interacts with the ERBB3/HER3 and ERBB4/HER4 receptors . These interactions are essential for the activation of signaling pathways that regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival .
The HRG-beta3 isoform of NRG1 has been implicated in several physiological processes. It plays a vital role in the development of the nervous system by promoting the proliferation and differentiation of glial cells, neurons, and Schwann cells . Additionally, it is involved in the formation of neuromuscular junctions by regulating the expression of acetylcholine receptors .
In the cardiovascular system, NRG1 isoforms, including HRG-beta3, contribute to cardiac development and repair by influencing the growth and survival of cardiac cells . They also play a role in the regulation of metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis in response to injury .
NRG1 and its isoforms have been studied for their potential therapeutic applications in various diseases. In cancer, NRG1 fusions can upregulate the activity of ERBB3/HER3 and ERBB4/HER4 receptors, making them targets for small molecule inhibitors and antibodies . These inhibitors have shown preliminary anti-cancer activity without causing neurologic toxicity .
In neurological diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), attenuated ERBB4/HER4 receptor activity due to loss-of-function mutations has been implicated in disease pathogenesis . Pan-ERBB inhibitors, already in use for cancer, are being explored as potential treatments for ALS .