Download MendeleyStructural basis for stem cell factor-KIT signaling and activation of class III receptor tyrosine kinases.
Liu, H., Chen, X., Focia, P.J., He, X.(2007) EMBO J 26: 891-901
- PubMed: 17255936
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.emboj.7601545
- Primary Citation of Related Structures:
2O27 - PubMed Abstract:
Stem cell factor (SCF) binds to and activates the KIT receptor, a class III receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), to stimulate diverse processes including melanogenesis, gametogenesis and hematopoeisis. Dysregulation of KIT activation is associated with many cancers. We report a 2.5 A crystal structure of the functional core of SCF bound to the extracellular ligand-binding domains of KIT. The structure reveals a 'wrapping' SCF-recognition mode by KIT, in which KIT adopts a bent conformation to facilitate each of its first three immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domains to interact with SCF. Three surface epitopes on SCF, an extended loop, the B and C helices, and the N-terminal segment, contact distinct KIT domains, with two of the epitopes undergoing large conformational changes upon receptor binding. The SCF/KIT complex reveals a unique RTK dimerization assembly, and a novel recognition mode between four-helix bundle cytokines and Ig-family receptors. It serves as a framework for understanding the activation mechanisms of class III RTKs.
Organizational Affiliation:
Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Biological Chemistry, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
