Mouse Epiregulin ELISA Kit (EREG)

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Epiregulin also known as EREG is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family. It is a glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 19 kDa. The protein is secreted and functions as a ligand for the EGF receptor (EGFR) and to a lesser extent for ErbB4 known as HER4 in humans. Epiregulin is expressed in a variety of tissues including placenta kidney and skin as well as within certain tumor cells. The expression can be regulated by signaling pathways involved in cellular growth and differentiation.

Biological function summary

Epiregulin participates in cellular processes such as proliferation differentiation and migration. It functions by binding to the EGFR initiating a cascade of downstream signaling events. As part of the EGF family it does not form part of a larger complex but it influences the activity of receptor dimers once bound. Its activity varies depending on the cellular context aiding in processes like tissue repair and embryonic development through its interaction with receptors and activation of signaling pathways.

Pathways

Epiregulin plays a significant role in the MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways both critical in regulating cell growth and survival. These pathways influence critical processes like cell cycle progression and apoptosis where epiregulin functions in coordination with other EGF family proteins such as TGF-alpha and amphiregulin. This protein assists in maintaining cellular homeostasis by modulating these pathways which are key to responding to environmental stimuli and cellular stress.

Associated diseases and disorders

Epiregulin has associations with certain cancers such as colorectal and breast cancer. The protein often shows elevated expression levels in tumor samples implicating it in tumorigenesis. Its binding interaction with EGFR plays an important role in cancer cell survival and proliferation. Additionally epiregulin bears a connection to inflammatory diseases where its expression can exacerbate conditions like psoriasis through its impact on epidermal cells. In both cancer and inflammatory conditions the interplay between epiregulin and other related proteins like EGFR and ERBB2 influences disease progression and severity.