BACKGROUND
The c-Kit proto-oncogene is a member of the receptor tyrosine kinase family and, more specifically, is closely related to the platelet derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). c-Kit, the normal cellular homolog of the HZ4-feline sarcoma virus transforming gene (v-Kit), encodes a transmembrane receptor. c-Kit regulates a variety of biological responses including chemotaxis, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and adhesion. c-Kit is also identical with the product of the W locus in mice and, as such, is integral to the development of mast cells and hematopoiesis. The ligand for the c-Kit receptor (KL) has been identified and is encoded at the murine steel (SI) locus. Kit is the human homolog of the proto-oncogene c-Kit. Mutations in Kit are integral for tumor growth and progression in various cancers.