Anti-LGR5 antibody [4H8]

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

LGR5 also known as leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein coupled receptor 5 is a transmembrane receptor primarily involved in the regulation of stem cell function. With a molecular mass of approximately 99 kDa LGR5 is highly expressed in intestinal crypts hair follicles and other tissues with proliferative capacity. This receptor functions through the activation of downstream signaling pathways upon binding with its ligand R-spondin. Often referred to as GPR49 LGR5 plays an essential role in embryonic development and adult tissue homeostasis.

Biological function summary

LGR5 marks adult stem cells in several rapidly self-renewing tissues. It forms part of a receptor complex that enhances Wnt signaling important for maintaining stemness and controlling cell fate. LGR5's activity ensures the self-renewal and differentiation balance within stem cell niches. The protein acts as a reliable stem cell marker in both intestinal and hair follicle stem cells facilitating their identification and isolation for research or therapeutic purposes.

Pathways

LGR5 interacts significantly with the Wnt signaling pathway playing a critical role in its activation. It associates with the R-spondin and LRP5/6 pathway components to potentiate Wnt signals thereby influencing cellular functions like proliferation and differentiation. LGR5's role in this pathway connects it with other key proteins such as β-catenin and TCF which are important for transcriptional regulation driven by Wnt pathway activation.

Associated diseases and disorders

LGR5 expression links with colorectal cancer and medulloblastoma. In colorectal cancer overexpression of LGR5 suggests uncontrolled Wnt signaling leading to excessive cell proliferation. This association highlights its potential as a target for cancer therapy. Moreover LGR5 interacts with proteins like APC in tumor suppression and TP53 whose mutations often accompany tumorigenesis. Understanding LGR5's function and regulation helps develop therapeutic strategies for related pathologies.