Background：CD117 is a 145 kD immunoglobulin superfamily member also known as c-Kit and stem cell factor receptor （SCFR）. It is a transmembrane tyrosine-kinase receptor that binds the c-Kit ligand （also known as steel factor, stem cell factor, and mast cell growth factor）. CD117 is expressed on hematopoietic stem cells （including multipotent hematopoietic stem cells, progenitors committed to myeloid and/or erythroid lineages, and T and B cell precursors）, mast cells, and acute myeloid leukemia （AML） cells. CD117 interaction with its ligand is critical for the development of hematopoietic stem cells.
