Understanding PPP4R1: A Potential Drug Target Or Biomarker (G9989)

Target Name: PPP4R1

NCBI ID: G9989

Understanding PPP4R1: A Potential Drug Target Or Biomarker

PPP4R1 (Protamineptide synthase 4 gene, PPP4R1) is a gene that encodes a protein known as protamineptide synthase 4. This protein is a key enzyme in the synthesis of a class of drugs known as biguanides, which are used to treat a variety of diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and genetic disorders. Despite the widespread use of these drugs, the underlying biology of their mechanism of action remains poorly understood.

The PPP4R1 gene has been identified as a potential drug target or biomarker for several reasons. First, the PPP4R1 gene is located on the X chromosome, which is known to be a gene therapy target in females. Second, the gene is expressed in human pluripotent stem cells, which are a source of diverse cell populations with the potential to provide insights into the gene's function. Third, the gene is involved in the synthesis of a class of drugs known as biguanides, which are known to cause DNA damage and are potentially harmful.

In this article, we will explore the biology of PPP4R1 and its potential as a drug target or biomarker.

Biology of PPP4R1

The PPP4R1 gene is a member of the superfamily of N-acyltransferases (NATs), which are a class of enzymes that transfer amino acids to specific amino acid residues in proteins. The PPP4R1 gene encodes a protein with 116 amino acid residues. The protein has a distinct N-terminus, a catalytic center, and a C-terminus.

The PPP4R1 protein functions as the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of biguanides, which are a class of DNA damage repair compounds that are used to treat a variety of diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and genetic disorders. The biguanides work by binding to specific DNA damage sites and being transformed into a more stable form that is resistant to DNA damage.

Expression of PPP4R1

PPP4R1 is expressed in human pluripotent stem cells, which are a source of diverse cell populations. The stem cells are derived from the cells of the patient, and they have the ability to differentiate into any cell type in the body. This makes them an attractive tool for studying the function of PPP4R1 and other genes.

The PPP4R1 gene is also expressed in various tissues and organs, including the liver, pancreas, and gastrointestinal tract. The gene is also expressed in fetal tissues, which provides insight into the function of the gene during development.

Drug Targeting

PPP4R1 has been identified as a potential drug target or biomarker due to its involvement in the synthesis of biguanides. These drugs are known to cause DNA damage and are potentially harmful. By blocking the function of PPP4R1, researchers may be able to prevent the formation of these drugs and potentially treat diseases associated with their use.

In addition to its potential as a drug target, PPP4R1 has also been identified as a potential biomarker for several diseases. For example, the PPP4R1 gene has been shown to be expressed in various types of cancer, including breast cancer and colon cancer. This suggests that PPP4R1 may be a useful biomarker for these diseases.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PPP4R1 is a gene that has the potential to be a drug target or biomarker for several diseases. Its location on the X chromosome and its expression in human pluripotent stem cells make it an attractive target for researchers. Further studies are needed to fully understand the function of PPP4R1 and its potential as a drug.

Protein Name: Protein Phosphatase 4 Regulatory Subunit 1

Functions: Regulatory subunit of serine/threonine-protein phosphatase 4. May play a role in regulation of cell division in renal glomeruli. The PPP4C-PPP4R1 PP4 complex may play a role in dephosphorylation and regulation of HDAC3

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