TEK Tyrosine Kinase, Endothelial (TIE2)

TIE2, also known as TEK, is a receptor tyrosine kinase predominantly expressed on vascular endothelial cells. It plays a central role in blood vessel formation (angiogenesis), vascular stability, and maintenance. Ligands include Angiopoietin 1 (Ang1), Angiopoietin 2 (Ang2), and Angiopoietin 4 (Ang4). Upon ligand binding, TIE2 undergoes autophosphorylation and activates downstream signaling pathways such as PI3K-Akt, promoting cell survival, migration, and nitric oxide production. Dysregulation is implicated in tumor angiogenesis, atherosclerosis, vascular leakage syndromes, and congenital disorders affecting vasculature.

Other names

TIE2TEK

Agonists promote receptor clustering/activation leading to downstream signaling (PI3K-Akt, eNOS) that enhances survival, migration, and anti-inflammatory effects. Antagonists can disrupt signaling pathways.