SMAD7

SMAD7

A gene on chromosome 18q21.1 that encodes a SMAD family protein, named for their similarity to the Drosophila gene Mothers Against Decapentaplegic (MAD), which are signal transducers and transcription modulators of multiple signalling pathways. SMAD7 is a nuclear protein that binds the E3 ubiquitin ligase SMURF2. Once bound, the complex translocates to the cytoplasm, where it inhibits TGF(transforming growth factor)-beta and activin signalling by associating with their receptors, preventing SMAD2 access.
 
Molecular pathology
SMAD7 variants have an increased susceptibility to colorectal cancer type 3.