Control of EGF receptor signalling: lessons from fruitflies.

摘要: The EGF receptor, and the related ErbB family of receptor tyrosine kinases, have been much implicated in human cancer. Hyperactive signalling promotes deregulated growth control onset malignancy, as well disruption developmental programmes. Very little, however, is known about physiological regulation humans. fruitfly, Drosophila melanogaster, has a single homologous to four receptors this review we discuss how genetic approach led significant insights into fly regulated. As mechanisms conserved between flies mammals, these results experiments are relevant study development disease. Two areas recent progress emphasised. First, number signal modulators identified, including three inhibitors, several which homologues. Second, describe molecules integrated regulatory networks that specify elaborate activation profiles needed – positive negative feedback emerges central theme. Although no direct clinical application, mechanistic insight it provides suggests new avenues more applied research, potential therapeutic targets.