Receptor tyrosine kinase which may phosphorylate mlk-1, a component of the mlk-1, mek-1 and kgb-1 pathway (PubMed:22388962). Involved in axon regeneration after injury by promoting the generation of productive and stable growth cones (PubMed:22388962, PubMed:27984580, PubMed:31109965). ATP + L-tyrosyl-[protein] = ADP + H(+) + O-phospho-L-tyrosyl-[protein] Interacts (via cytoplasmic domain) with mlk-1 (PubMed:22388962). Interacts with shc-1 (via SH2 domain) (PubMed:27984580). May interact (when tyrosine-phosphorylated) with tns-1 (via SH2 domain) (PubMed:31109965). Expressed in body wall and vulva muscles, pharynx, intestine, excretory canals, distal tip cells and some neurons. Expressed in D-type motor neurons upon axon injury. May be autophosphorylated on Tyr-890 following dimerization. Viable. Reduced axon regeneration 24 hours following injury of D-type motor neurons. Belongs to the protein kinase superfamily. Tyr protein kinase family.