Discoidin Domain-containing Receptors (DDRs)

Discoidin domain-containing receptors (DDRs) are a unique subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) that function as non-integrin collagen receptors. There are two main members in mammals: DDR1 and DDR2. These receptors play critical roles in cell signaling, development, tissue homeostasis, and disease processes such as fibrosis and cancer. They exhibit slow but sustained kinase activation upon collagen engagement, a unique feature among RTKs. DDRs regulate diverse cellular processes and act as sensors for the extracellular matrix (ECM), translating changes in ECM composition into intracellular signals that influence cell behavior. Altered expression or function of DDRs has been linked to several pathologies, making them promising therapeutic targets.

Other names

DDR1DDR2

Modulation of DDR activity or downstream pathways