Tyrosine-protein kinase Blk (BLK)

Non-receptor tyrosine kinase involved in B-lymphocyte development, differentiation and signaling. B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling requires a tight regulation of several protein tyrosine kinases and phosphatases, and related coreceptors.

Binding of antigen to the B-cell antigen receptor (BCR) triggers signaling that finally contributes to B-cell activation. Signaling through BLK plays an significant role in transmitting signals through surface immunoglobulins and encourages the pro-B into pre-B transition, as well as the signaling for growth arrest and apoptosis downstream of B-cell receptor.