Anti-ALK antibody [SP144] - BSA and Azide free

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

The Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase commonly referred to as ALK is a receptor tyrosine kinase known for its role in cell signaling. It is sometimes called CD246. ALK has a molecular mass of approximately 180 kDa. This protein finds expression predominantly in the central and peripheral nervous system with prominence in neural tissue during development. The ALK protein belongs to the insulin receptor superfamily exhibiting kinase activity that promotes signal transduction processes associated with growth and differentiation.

Biological function summary

ALK influences cell growth survival and differentiation playing a significant role during the development of the nervous system. As part of its biological activity the ALK protein can become a component of larger signaling complexes participating as an important activator or mediator. Evidence suggests ALK's involvement in neuronal differentiation and synaptogenesis. Its activity impacts intracellular pathways consequently modulating biological processes relevant to neural tissue and oncogenesis.

Pathways

ALK acts within the MAPK and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways. These pathways enable the transduction of signals from the cell surface to the nucleus influencing cellular outcomes such as proliferation and survival. In these pathways ALK interacts with various other proteins including GRB2 and PI3K which further facilitate downstream signaling. Proper functioning of these pathways is essential to maintaining cellular homeostasis and development.

Associated diseases and disorders

ALK has a significant relationship with certain types of cancer such as non-small cell lung carcinoma and anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Genetic alterations in ALK such as translocations or mutations can lead to the uncontrolled activation of its kinase activity resulting in oncogenic transformation. In these contexts the ALK protein often interacts with EML4 in lung cancer through a fusion forming an oncogenic driver. Targeting ALK with anti-ALK antibodies or small molecule inhibitors has emerged as a therapeutic strategy to manage these malignancies.