TAM receptors (Tyro3, Axl, and Mer) belong to a family of
receptor tyrosine kinases that have important effects on hemostasis and
inflammation. Also, they affect cell proliferation, survival, adhesion, and migration. TAM receptors can be activated by the
vitamin K-dependent
proteins Gas6 and
protein S.
Protein S is more commonly known as an important cofactor for
protein C as well as a direct inhibitor of multiple
coagulation factors. To our knowledge, the functions of Gas6 are limited to TAM receptor activation. When activated, the TAM receptors have effects on primary hemostasis and coagulation and display an anti-inflammatory or a proinflammatory effect, depending on cell type. To comprehend the effects that the TAM receptors and their
ligands have on hemostasis and
inflammation, we compare studies that report the different phenotypes displayed by mice with deficiencies in the genes of this receptor family and its
ligands (
protein S(+/-), Gas6(-/-), TAM(-/-), and variations of these). In this manner, we aim to display which features are attributable to the different
ligands. Because of the effects TAM receptors have on hemostasis,
inflammation, and
cancer growth, their modulation could make interesting therapeutic targets in thromboembolic disease,
atherosclerosis,
sepsis,
autoimmune disease, and
cancer.