Description
Betacellulin(BTC) is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family. These soluble proteins are ligands for one or more of the four receptor tyrosine kinases encoded by the ErbB gene family (ErbB-1/epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), neu/ErbB-2/HER2, ErbB-3/HER3 and ErbB-4/HER4). Betacellulin is a 32-kilodalton glycoprotein that appears to be processed from a larger transmembrane precursor by proteolytic cleavage. This protein is a ligand for the EGF receptor. BTC is a polymer of about 62-111 amino acid residues. Secondary Structure: 6% helical (1 helices; 3 residues)36% beta sheet (5 strands; 18 residues). BTC was originally identified as a growth-promoting factor in mouse pancreatic β-cell carcinoma cell line and has since been identified in humans. It plays a role in the growth and development of the neonate and/or mammary gland function. Betacellulin is a potent mitogen for retinal pigment epithelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells.