Tumor Differentiation Factor (TDF) and its Receptor (TDF-R): Is TDF-R an Inducible Complex with Multiple Docking Sites?

Abstract

Tumor Differentiation Factor (TDF) is a protein produced by the pituitary and secreted into the blood stream. TDF targets breast and prostate and induces cell differentiation. However, the mechanism of cell differentiation, the TDF receptor and the TDF pathway have not been adequately investigated. Here, we provide some insights about the possible composition of the TDF-R. TDF-R may be a protein complex, composed of GRP78, HSP70 and HSP90 proteins, and all three protein subunits have a docking site for TDF-P1. The question of whether the TDF-R complex is a stable or transient/inducible complex is currently being investigated.