SCF Protein, Rat (His)

Stem Cell Factor (SCF) operates as a pivotal ligand for the receptor-type protein-tyrosine kinase KIT, exerting indispensable regulatory functions in cell survival, proliferation, hematopoiesis, stem cell maintenance, gametogenesis, mast cell development, migration, and melanogenesis. Upon binding to KIT, SCF activates diverse signaling pathways, triggering phosphorylation events that lead to the activation of key kinases such as AKT1 and components of the MAP kinase cascade, including RAS, RAF1, and MAPK1/ERK2 or MAPK3/ERK1. Furthermore, SCF-driven signaling involves the activation of STAT family members (STAT1, STAT3, and STAT5) and PLCG1, culminating in the production of crucial cellular signaling molecules. Operating synergistically with other cytokines, likely interleukins, SCF forms homodimers and non-covalently links to KIT, resulting in the formation of a heterotetramer that mediates KIT dimerization and subsequent activation through autophosphorylation. This intricate network underscores SCF's multifaceted role in orchestrating diverse cellular processes and developmental pathways.