Function
Activin receptors (Acvr) are integral to the activin and myostatin signalling pathway. Binding of activin to the Acvr on muscle cell membrane leads to enhanced muscle protein breakdown and debilitating loss of muscle mass and functional capacity[1].
Disease
A mutation in Acrv1 exists in individuals with the rare developmental disorder fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva[2].
Relevance
Increased activin/Acvr2 signalling links aging and heart failure pathobiology and that targeted inhibition of this catabolic pathway may form a therapeutic strategy for multiple forms of hear failure[3].
Structural highlights
3D structure of the kinase domain of Acvr1 complex with inhibitor shows with the protein including a and a [4]. Water molecule is shown as red sphere.
