Description
KIT, also known as mast/stem cell growth factor receptor Kit isoform 1, is a cytokine receptor that is expressed not only in hematopoietic stem cells but also in other cell types. It binds to receptor tyrosine kinase type III, a stem cell factor, also called a rigid factor or c-kit ligand. When this receptor binds to stem cell factor (SCF), it forms a dimer that activates intrinsic tyrosine kinase activity, which, in turn, phosphorylates and activates signaling molecules that propagate signals in cells. This receptor protects vascular smooth muscle cells from apoptosis and helps restore cardiac function after myocardial infarction. Recombinant human KIT, fused to His-tag at C-terminus, was expressed in insect cell and purified by using conventional chromatography techniques