SCF/c-kit Ligand: Proteins and Enzymes

SCF (Stem cell factor), also known as c-kit ligand (KL), mast cell growth factor (MGF), and steel factor (SLF) promotes the survival, differentiation, and mobilization of multiple cell types including myeloid, erythroid, megakaryocytic, lymphoid, germ cell, and melanocyte progenitors. SCF is a primary growth and activation factor for mast cells and eosinophils. SCF is expressed as a transmembrane, but a soluble form can be released by proteolytic shedding. Noncovalent dimers of transmembrane or soluble SCF interact with the receptor tyrosine kinase SCF R/c-kit to trigger receptor dimerization and signaling. SCF assists in the recovery of cardiac function following myocardial infarction by increasing the number of cardiomyocytes and vascular channels.