Discoidin domain-containing receptor 2
Discoidin domain-containing receptor 2 (DDR2) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the DDR2 gene. DDR2 belongs to a unique class of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and is one of the two members of the discoidin domain receptor family.
Function[edit | edit source]
DDR2 is a cell surface receptor involved in cell adhesion and in the metabolism of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. It functions as a sensor of ECM and plays a crucial role in tissue repair and remodeling, cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration. DDR2 is activated by various types of collagens and has been implicated in a number of diseases, including fibrosis, osteoarthritis, and cancer.
Structure[edit | edit source]
The DDR2 protein consists of a discoidin domain, a transmembrane domain, and a tyrosine kinase domain. The discoidin domain is responsible for collagen binding, while the tyrosine kinase domain is involved in the intracellular signaling pathway.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
DDR2 mutations have been associated with several diseases. For instance, mutations in the DDR2 gene have been linked to spondylo-meta-epiphyseal dysplasia, a rare form of dwarfism. In cancer, DDR2 has been found to be overexpressed in several types of tumors, including lung and breast cancers.
Research[edit | edit source]
DDR2 is a potential therapeutic target in fibrotic diseases and cancer. Several inhibitors of DDR2 kinase activity have been developed and are currently under investigation in preclinical studies.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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