endoteliini3

Endotelin3, also known as EDN3, is a peptide that belongs to the endothelin family of proteins. It is a potent vasoconstrictor and plays a significant role in the development and function of various tissues. Endotelin3 is encoded by the EDN3 gene. This gene is found on chromosome 18 in humans. The protein it produces consists of 214 amino acids.

EDN3 is synthesized as a preproendothelin, which is then cleaved to form a mature endothelin peptide. This peptide exerts its effects by binding to specific receptors on cell surfaces, primarily the endothelin A receptor (ETAR) and the endothelin B receptor (ETBR). The distribution of these receptors varies across different cell types, leading to diverse physiological responses.

In developmental biology, endotelin3 is crucial for the formation of neural crest derivatives, including melanocytes and certain neuronal populations. Mutations in the EDN3 gene or its receptor genes have been linked to various congenital disorders, such as Waardenburg syndrome type IV, which is characterized by pigmentation abnormalities, hearing loss, and Hirschsprung disease. Beyond development, EDN3 is also involved in vascular homeostasis, regulating blood pressure and vascular tone. Its roles in other physiological processes, including wound healing and kidney function, are also areas of ongoing research.