Human Roundabout Homolog 4 (ROBO4) Protein

Background

ROBO4 (Roundabout Guidance Receptor 4) diverges functionally from other ROBO family members by playing a significant role in vascular biology rather than neural development. It is predominantly expressed in endothelial cells and contributes to maintaining vascular integrity by regulating endothelial cell migration, adhesion, and barrier function. ROBO4 interacts with Slit ligands to inhibit pathological angiogenesis and vascular permeability, which is crucial in conditions like inflammation and cancer. Dysregulation of ROBO4 has been implicated in vascular-related disorders, including tumor angiogenesis and chronic inflammatory diseases, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic target in vascular dysfunction and related pathologies.