Human SHC-Transforming Protein 3 (SHC3) Protein

Background

SHC3, also known as N-Shc, is a neuron-specific adaptor protein involved in neurotrophin signaling and neuronal development. It shares structural similarities with SHC1 and SHC2, containing PTB and SH2 domains that mediate interactions with phosphorylated receptor tyrosine kinases, including Trk receptors. SHC3 specifically activates pathways such as Ras/MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and ERK, promoting neuronal survival, differentiation, and axonal growth. It is highly expressed in the developing and adult nervous system, where it regulates synaptic plasticity, neuronal connectivity, and brain function. Dysregulation of SHC3 has been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegeneration, and certain brain cancers, where aberrant activation of signaling pathways affects neuronal survival and proliferation. Knockout studies reveal impaired neurotrophin signaling, reduced axonal outgrowth, and defects in synaptic connectivity, underscoring its critical role in brain development, neuronal maintenance, and signal transduction in the central nervous system.