Description
The Stem Cell Factor Receptor, also known as the Mast/stem cell growth factor receptor Kit, is a tyrosine-protein kinase that serves as a cell-surface receptor for the cytokine KITLG/SCF. It plays a critical role in regulating cell survival and proliferation, hematopoiesis, stem cell maintenance, gametogenesis, mast cell development, migration and function, as well as melanogenesis. Upon binding with KITLG/SCF, the KIT receptor can activate multiple signaling pathways. The SCF/c-kit signaling pathway is vital for normal hematopoiesis. In mice, significant reductions in c-kit expression or impairment of SCF function lead to bone marrow hypoplasia, absence of mature mast cells, lack of pigmentation, and infertility