TAM receptor

The three receptors TYRO3, AXL and MERTK belong to the group of TAM receptors, which are part of the protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) subfamily. Their activity regulates different critical cellular processes, like apoptosis or growth, but also in the development and progression of various cancer types.

Interestingly, TAM receptors have been shown to play an important role in the homeostasis of the immune system. TAM receptor deficiency or malfunction participates in a broad-spectrum of autoimmune diseases, which are caused by the overactivation of antigen presenting cells and the disability to clear apoptotic debris.

Our current research focuses on the regulation of TAM receptor expression in inflammatory diseases and mechanisms to eliviate TAM receptor expression as part of anti-inflammatory therapeutic strategies to support the resolution phase of immune responses and re-establishment of immune homeostasis.