Bruton’s tyrosine kinase

Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) is an enzyme critical for the development and functioning of B cells, which are a type of immune cell that produces antibodies to fight infections. BTK helps transmit signals within B cells, aiding their growth and activation. When BTK is overactive or malfunctioning, it can contribute to certain blood cancers and autoimmune diseases by causing abnormal B cell activity. Medications that inhibit BTK are used to treat these conditions by blocking its signaling, thereby reducing harmful B cell activity and helping to manage the disease.