Mouse Tyrosine-Protein Kinase Mer (MERTK) Protein

Background

MERTK (MER Proto-Oncogene, Tyrosine Kinase) is a member of the TAM (TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK) receptor tyrosine kinase family, which plays a crucial role in the regulation of immune response, cell survival, migration, and phagocytosis. This gene was identified due to its homology with the avian oncogene v-Mer and is involved in the clearance of apoptotic cells and immune tolerance. The MERTK protein is primarily expressed in macrophages, dendritic cells, and retinal pigment epithelial cells. Dysregulation of MERTK has been implicated in various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and retinal degenerative diseases.