F3contactin

F3contactin, also known as Contactin-3, is a cell surface protein belonging to the contactin subfamily of the immunoglobulin superfamily. These proteins are characterized by the presence of multiple immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domains followed by a fibronectin type III (FNIII)-like repeat domain. F3contactin is a transmembrane protein, with its extracellular domain mediating cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. Its intracellular domain is involved in signaling pathways that regulate cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation.

The gene encoding F3contactin is located on human chromosome 7. F3contactin is expressed in various tissues, with particularly high levels found in the nervous system. In the developing brain, it plays a crucial role in neuronal development, including axon guidance, fasciculation, and synapse formation. It has also been implicated in the development and function of other tissues, such as the kidney and pancreas.

Dysregulation of F3contactin expression or function has been associated with several diseases. In the context of cancer, F3contactin has been observed to be upregulated in certain tumor types, and its presence can correlate with increased invasiveness and metastasis. Research is ongoing to explore its potential as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target in various pathological conditions.