Pathway: FLT3 Signaling
Reactions in pathway: FLT3 Signaling :
FLT3 Signaling
Feline McDonough Sarcoma-like tyrosine kinase (FLT3) (also known as FLK2 (fetal liver tyrosine kinase 2), STK-1 (stem cell tyrosine kinase 1) or CD135) is a member of the class III receptor tyrosine kinase family involved in the differentiation, proliferation and survival of hematopoietic progenitor cells and of dendritic cells. Upon FLT3 ligand (FL) binding, the receptor forms dimers and is phosphorylated. Consequently, adapter and signaling molecules bind with the active receptor and trigger the activation of various pathways downstream including PI3K/Akt and MAPK cascades (Grafone T et al. 2012).
Cytokines are small proteins that regulate and mediate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis. They are secreted in response to immune stimuli, and usually act briefly, locally, at very low concentrations. Cytokines bind to specific membrane receptors, which then signal the cell via second messengers, to regulate cellular activity.
Humans are exposed to millions of potential pathogens daily, through contact, ingestion, and inhalation. Our ability to avoid infection depends on the adaptive immune system and during the first critical hours and days of exposure to a new pathogen, our innate immune system.