Tyro-3, Axl, and Mer constitute the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases 
(RTKs) characterized by a conserved sequence within the kinase domain and 
adhesion molecule-like extracellular domains. This small family of RTKs 
regulates an intriguing mix of processes, including cell proliferation/survival, 
cell adhesion and migration, blood clot stabilization, and regulation of 
inflammatory cytokine release. Genetic or experimental alteration of TAM 
receptor function can contribute to a number of disease states, including 
coagulopathy, autoimmune disease, retinitis pigmentosa, and cancer. In this 
chapter, we first provide a comprehensive review of the structure, regulation, 
biologic functions, and downstream signaling pathways of these receptors. In 
addition, we discuss recent evidence which suggests a role for TAM receptors in 
oncogenic mechanisms as family members are overexpressed in a spectrum of human 
cancers and have prognostic significance in some. Possible strategies for 
targeted inhibition of the TAM family in the treatment of human cancer are 
described. Further research will be necessary to evaluate the full clinical 
implications of TAM family expression and activation in cancer.