semaphorin3F

Semaphorin-3F (Sema3F) is a secreted signaling protein that belongs to the class-3 semaphorins, a family of axon guidance cues. It plays a role in shaping neural circuits during development and can influence dendritic growth and synapse formation in the mature nervous system. In addition to its neural guidance functions, Sema3F can act as an anti-angiogenic factor, inhibiting blood vessel formation in certain contexts.

Sema3F exerts its effects by binding to neuropilin-2 (NRP2) and a plexin receptor, typically from the PlexinA family, to form a receptor complex that transduces repulsive signals for migrating neurons and endothelial cells. The specific Plexin partners can vary by tissue and developmental stage, but the NRP2-PlexinA signaling axis is a common mechanism.

Expression of SEMA3F is detected in the nervous system and in non-neural tissues, with patterns that change during development and in disease. Altered expression or genetic variations of SEMA3F have been implicated in cancer biology, where reduced Sema3F can correlate with increased tumor growth and metastasis, partially due to its anti-angiogenic and anti-motility effects. Consequently, SEMA3F is studied as a potential tumor suppressor and as a therapeutic target in oncology, as well as a modulator of neural repair and regeneration.

The SEMA3F gene is located on human chromosome 3. Ongoing research continues to define its roles in development, vascular biology, and disease, as well as the therapeutic potential of modulating Sema3F signaling.