TM4SF1 - Transmembrane 4 L6 family member 1 | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background

Transmembrane 4 L6 family member 1 (TM4SF1) is a protein encoded by the TM4SF1 gene. This protein belongs to the tetraspanin superfamily, also known as the transmembrane 4 superfamily, characterized by four transmembrane domains. TM4SF1 is expressed in a variety of tissues but is notably upregulated in certain cancerous tissues, implicating it in tumor progression and metastasis. Its expression has been associated with cell proliferation, motility, and angiogenesis, making it a potential target for cancer therapy.

Protein Structure

TM4SF1 is a membrane protein that spans the cell membrane four times, forming two extracellular loops, one small and one large, and having cytoplasmic N- and C-termini. The key structural features include:

• Four Transmembrane Domains: These hydrophobic regions anchor the protein within the cell membrane.
• Two Extracellular Loops: The larger extracellular loop often plays a role in protein-protein interactions, critical for signaling pathways.
• Intracellular N- and C-Termini: These regions can interact with intracellular signaling molecules and cytoskeletal elements.

Classification and Subtypes

TM4SF1 is a member of the tetraspanin family, which includes several other proteins involved in cell adhesion, motility, and signal transduction. These proteins share common structural features but have diverse functions and tissue distribution.

Function and Biological Significance

TM4SF1 is involved in various cellular processes:

• Cell Proliferation and Migration: It promotes cell growth and movement, essential in wound healing and cancer metastasis.
• Angiogenesis: TM4SF1 supports the formation of new blood vessels, a crucial process in both normal physiology and tumor growth.
• Signal Transduction: It interacts with other cell surface receptors and intracellular signaling molecules to modulate cell behavior.

Clinical Issues

Dysregulation or overexpression of TM4SF1 has been linked to several clinical conditions, particularly in oncology:

• Cancer: High levels of TM4SF1 are found in many cancers, including breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. Its expression correlates with poor prognosis and increased metastatic potential.
• Therapeutic Target: Due to its role in tumor progression, TM4SF1 is being explored as a therapeutic target. Inhibiting TM4SF1 function could potentially reduce tumor growth and metastasis.
• Biomarker: TM4SF1 might serve as a biomarker for certain cancers, aiding in diagnosis and prognosis.

Summary

Transmembrane 4 L6 family member 1 (TM4SF1) is a tetraspanin protein involved in critical cellular processes such as proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. Its significant role in tumor progression and metastasis makes it a promising target for cancer therapy. Understanding the structure and function of TM4SF1 is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies and improving cancer