Lineage-specific co-evolution of the Egf receptor/ligand signaling system.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The epidermal growth factor receptor (Egfr) with its numerous ligands has fundamental roles in development, cell differentiation and physiology. Dysfunction of the receptor-ligand system contributes to many human malignancies. Consistent with such various tasks, the Egfr gene family has expanded during vertebrate evolution as a consequence of several rounds of whole genome duplication. Of particular interest is the effect of the fish-specific whole genome duplication (FSGD) on the ligand-receptor system, as it has supplied this largest group of vertebrates with additional opportunities for sub- and/or neofunctionalization in this signaling system.

Results

We identified the predicted components of the Egf receptor-ligand signaling system in teleost fishes (medaka,

SUBMITTER: Laisney JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2834686 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature