EphA6

EphA6 is a member of the Eph receptor tyrosine kinase family. These receptors are involved in cell-to-cell communication and play critical roles in embryonic development, tissue organization, and neuronal function. Eph receptors bind to their ligands, the ephrin proteins, which are also membrane-bound molecules. This binding initiates a bidirectional signaling cascade, affecting both the Eph receptor-expressing cell and the ephrin-expressing cell.

The EphA6 receptor is known to interact with specific ephrin-A ligands. Upon binding to ephrin-A, EphA6 can trigger intracellular signaling pathways that regulate cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. The precise roles of EphA6 are diverse and context-dependent, appearing in various tissues throughout development. For instance, it has been implicated in the development of the nervous system, where it may contribute to neuronal guidance and synapse formation. Additionally, EphA6 has been studied in the context of the immune system and certain cancer types, suggesting its involvement in processes beyond initial development. Research into EphA6 continues to explore its multifaceted functions and therapeutic potential.