Target intelligence / Profile preview

Protein smoothened (SMO)

Target: SMO
Molecular classification: G protein-coupled receptor, Frizzled class GPCR

Overview

Smoothened (SMO) is a transmembrane protein and a key component of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway. It acts as a signal transducer, regulating cell fate decisions during embryogenesis and adult tissue maintenance. Activation of SMO initiates intracellular signaling cascades that control gene expression related to growth and differentiation. Dysregulation of SMO can drive various cancers, making it a target for therapies like vismodegib and sonidegib. However, resistance mutations frequently arise.

Other names: Smoothened receptor

Mechanism of action

Inhibition of Smoothened activity, leading to suppression of Hedgehog signaling.

Biological functions

Signal transductionCell fate determinationEmbryonic developmentTissue homeostasisCellular differentiation

Disease associations

CancerDevelopmental defects

Safety considerations

Drug resistance mutationsDevelopmental defects (due to Hh pathway inhibition)

Interacting drugs

Cyclopamine

2 more in the full profile.

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