Ephrin type-A receptor 5 (EPHA5)

Ephrin type-A receptor 5 (EPHA5) is a human receptor tyrosine kinase encoded by the EPHA5 gene. It is a member of the Eph receptor family, the largest group of receptor tyrosine kinases, characterized by a single kinase domain and an extracellular region with a Cys-rich domain and fibronectin type III repeats. EPHA5 binds GPI-anchored ephrin-A ligands on adjacent cells, mediating contact-dependent bidirectional signaling involved in cell–cell attachment, mobility, and developmental processes, particularly in the nervous and cardiovascular systems. EPHA5 plays a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis, has been implicated in cancer biology (notably follicular thyroid carcinoma, glioblastoma), and is being explored as a therapeutic target in oncology and possibly immune modulation. Therapeutic targeting techniques under preclinical study include antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, and ligand-based cytotoxins. Safety concerns and technical barriers remain before clinical adoption can be considered.

Other names

EPH receptor A5EPHA5

Antagonism or agonism of receptor function by blocking ligand binding or receptor activation; Inhibition or modulation of downstream kinase signaling pathways, including STAT3 phosphorylation; Delivery of conjugated cytotoxins or imaging agents to receptor-expressing cells.