Docking Protein 4 (DOK4) Protein

Background

DOK4 is an adaptor protein belonging to the DOK family, involved in signal transduction downstream of receptor tyrosine kinases, such as RET and insulin receptors. It modulates pathways like MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt, influencing cellular proliferation, survival, and differentiation. DOK4 is expressed in tissues like skeletal muscle, adipose tissue, and the nervous system, where it regulates metabolic signaling and cellular responses. It acts as a negative regulator of signaling by binding to SH2 domains and inhibiting downstream activation. Dysregulation of DOK4 is associated with metabolic disorders, insulin resistance, and certain cancers, where it influences cell adhesion and motility.