APOL4 - Apolipoprotein L4 | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

Apolipoprotein L4 (APOL4) is another member of the apolipoprotein L gene family, along with APOL1, APOL2, and APOL3. APOL4 is encoded by the APOL4 gene, which is located on chromosome 22q13.1 in humans. Like other members of the APOL gene family, it consists of multiple exons and encodes a protein involved in lipid metabolism. APOL4 is expressed in various tissues, including the liver, kidney, testis, and brain, although its expression pattern may vary depending on the tissue type and physiological conditions.The specific function of APOL4 is not fully understood, but it is believed to be involved in lipid metabolism and lipid transport, similar to other apolipoproteins. It may play a role in cholesterol metabolism, lipid transport, or other cellular processes related to lipid homeostasis.Compared to APOL1, which has garnered significant attention due to its association with kidney disease, research on APOL4 is relatively limited. However, studies have suggested potential roles for APOL4 in various cellular processes and disease states. For example, altered expression of APOL4 has been reported in certain cancer types, including breast cancer and lung cancer, suggesting a possible involvement in cancer development or progression.Disease Associations: While the specific disease associations of APOL4 are not as well characterized as those of APOL1, some studies have implicated it in certain pathological conditions. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role of APOL4 in health and disease.

Protein Structure:

• Primary Structure: APOL4 is composed of approximately 373 amino acids.
• Secondary Structure: It contains multiple alpha helices and beta sheets, contributing to its functional domains.
• Tertiary Structure: The protein has a complex tertiary structure with lipid-binding regions and domains that allow interaction with cellular membranes.
• Quaternary Structure: APOL4 can form homodimers and may interact with other proteins or lipid particles, similar to other apolipoproteins.

Classification and Subtypes:

APOL4 is part of the larger apolipoprotein L family, which includes several proteins with similar structures and functions related to lipid transport and immune responses. There are no well-documented subtypes of APOL4 due to alternative splicing or genetic variations like those seen in APOL1.

Function and Biological Significance:

• Lipid Transport: APOL4 is involved in the intracellular transport of lipids, playing a crucial role in maintaining cellular lipid homeostasis.
• Cellular Processes: It may influence various cellular processes, including membrane trafficking, lipid metabolism, and cell signaling.
• Immune Response: APOL4 might be involved in the body's immune response, although its exact mechanisms are less understood compared to APOL1.
• Apoptosis Regulation: There is some evidence suggesting that APOL4 may play a role in the regulation of apoptosis, similar to other members of the apolipoprotein L family.

Interactions:

• Lipid Interactions: APOL4 interacts with lipids within cells, helping to transport and regulate lipid levels.
• Protein Interactions: It likely interacts with other proteins involved in lipid metabolism and cellular transport processes, though specific interacting partners are not as well-characterized as for APOL1.

Clinical Issues:

• Disease Associations: While APOL4 has not been as extensively studied as APOL1, it may still play a role in various diseases, particularly those related to lipid metabolism and transport. Further research is needed to elucidate its potential involvement in specific conditions.
• Potential Biomarker: APOL4 could potentially serve as a biomarker for certain diseases involving lipid dysregulation or immune responses, pending further studies.

Summary:

Apolipoprotein L4 (APOL4) is a member of the apolipoprotein L family, primarily involved in intracellular lipid transport and possibly immune responses. It is expressed in various tissues, including the liver and kidney, and helps maintain cellular lipid homeostasis. While it shares similarities with APOL1, particularly in its role in lipid transport, its specific functions and disease associations are less well understood and warrant further investigation. Understanding APOL4's interactions and biological significance could provide insights into its role in health and disease.