Recombinant Rat SCF Protein (Active)

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

Stem Cell Factor (SCF) also known as kit ligand c-kit ligand or KITLG is a critical protein involved in cell signaling. It usually appears as a 30 kDa glycoprotein. SCF is widely expressed in various tissues including the bone marrow brain and fetal liver. Its major mechanical function is to bind to the c-KIT receptor triggering various intracellular pathways that influence cell proliferation survival and differentiation. Aside from its other names SCF in mouse plasma is often monitored including in assays like c-kit ligand ELISA.

Biological function summary

SCF acts as an indispensable growth factor promoting hematopoiesis and melanogenesis. It plays a significant role in the regulation of hematopoietic stem cells and mast cells. SCF and its receptor c-KIT form a complex that activates signaling pathways essential for these processes. This protein is also involved in gametogenesis by aiding the proliferation and survival of primordial germ cells. SCF's action is not limited to mammals as studies demonstrate its activity in other species like mouse SCF.

Pathways

SCF impacts multiple important biological systems by engaging with c-KIT. The SCF/c-KIT interaction contributes to the MAPK/ERK pathway influencing cell division and growth. It also plays a role in the PI3K/AKT pathway that governs cell survival. Beyond its direct association with c-KIT SCF's involvement in these pathways connects it to several other proteins like RAS and PI3K which are important for signal transduction.

Associated diseases and disorders

SCF has associations with several pathological conditions. Dysregulation of the SCF/c-KIT pathway can lead to disorders like mastocytosis and certain leukemias. The overactivation or mutations in c-KIT are often implicated in these diseases due to its cooperative action with SCF. Additionally aberrant SCF signaling can contribute to the progression of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) where c-KIT has known relevance. Understanding SCF's role can therefore provide insights into diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for these conditions.