Description
Stem cell factor (SCF), also known as cKit ligand (KL), mast cell growth factor (MGF), and steel factor (SLF), is a widely expressed 28-40 kDa type I transmembrane glycoprotein. It promotes the survival, differentiation, and mobilization of multiple cell types including myeloid, erythroid, megakaryocytic, lymphoid, germ cell, and melanocyte progenitors. SCF is a primary growth and activation factor for mast cells and eosinophils. Noncovalent dimers of transmembrane or soluble SCF interact with the receptor tyrosine kinase SCF R/cKit to trigger receptor dimerization and signaling. SCF assists in the recovery of cardiac function following myocardial infarction by increasing the number of cardiomyocytes and vascular channels