TGFBR3
Description
The TGFBR3 (transforming growth factor beta receptor 3) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 1.
TGFBR3, also known as Betaglycan, is a cell-surface receptor with a molecular weight greater than 300 kDa. It is a proteoglycan that binds to various members of the TGF-beta superfamily of ligands via its core protein and to bFGF via its heparan sulfate chains. TGFBR3 is the most widely expressed type of TGF-beta receptor and has high affinity towards all isoforms of TGF-beta. It plays an important role as a coreceptor, mediating the binding of TGF-beta to other receptors, specifically TGFBR2. While TGFBR3 lacks intrinsic kinase activity, it is considered a non-signaling receptor or a coreceptor in TGF-beta signaling. It acts as a reservoir of TGF-beta by binding to members of the TGF-beta superfamily at the cell surface. Studies in mice with a knockout of the Tgfbr3 gene showed significant effects on organ development and overall viability, suggesting additional, yet undescribed functions of TGFBR3, possibly mediated by non-classical signaling pathways. Despite these observations, no significant changes in Smad signaling, typical for the TGF-beta cascade, were detected in the knockout mice.
Binds to TGF-beta. May play a role in capturing and retaining TGF-beta for delivery to signaling receptors. Acts as an inhibin A coreceptor in gonadotrope cells, regulating follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and female fertility. Interacts with DYNLT4.
TGFBR3 is also known as BGCAN, betaglycan.
