Activin receptor-like kinase and the insulin gene

Vitam Horm. 2011:85:1-27. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-385961-7.00001-9.

Abstract

The biological responses of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, which includes Activins and Nodal, are induced by activation of a receptor complex and Smads. A type I receptor, which is a component of the complex, is known as an activin receptor-like kinase (ALK); currently seven ALKs (ALK1-ALK7) have been identified in humans. Activins signaling, which is mediated by ALK4 and 7 together with ActRIIA and IIB, plays a critical role in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, development/neogenesis, and glucose homeostatic control of pancreatic endocrine cells; the insulin gene is regulated by these signaling pathways via ALK7, which is a receptor for Activins AB and B and Nodal. This review discusses signal transduction of ALKs in pancreatic endocrine cells and the role of ALKs in insulin gene regulation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Activin Receptors / chemistry
  • Activin Receptors / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Humans
  • Insulin / genetics
  • Insulin / metabolism*
  • Isoenzymes / chemistry
  • Isoenzymes / physiology
  • Pancreas / metabolism

Substances

  • Insulin
  • Isoenzymes
  • Activin Receptors