Description
TrkB receptor also known as TrkB tyrosine kinase or BDNF/NT-3 growth factors receptor or neurotrophic tyrosine kinase, receptor, type 2 (NTRK2) is a single transmembrane catalytic receptor with intracellular tyrosine kinase activity. TrkB/NTRK2 is a member of the neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) family. TrkB tyrosine kinase (TrkB) or NTRK2 is coupled to the Ras, Cdc42/Rac/RhoG, MAPK, PI3-K, and PLCgamma signaling pathways. There are four members of the Trk family; TrkA, TrkB, and TrkC and a related p75NTR receptor. Each family member binds different neurotrophins with varying affinities. TrkB/NTRK has the highest affinity for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and is involved in neuronal plasticity, long-term potentiation, and apoptosis of CNS neurons. Other neurotrophins include, neurotrophin-3 and neurotrophin-4. TrkB/NTRK is a membrane-bound receptor that, upon neurotrophin binding, phosphorylates itself and members of the MAPK pathway. Signaling through this kinase leads to cell differentiation. Mutations in TrkB/NTRK have been associated with obesity and mood disorders