FFAR4
Description of FFA Receptor 4 (FFAR4)
FFAR4, also known as the free fatty acid receptor 4, is a G protein-coupled receptor that binds to various fatty acids, including long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) and medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs). It is primarily expressed in immune cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, as well as in adipocytes and enteroendocrine cells.
Associated Diseases
Activation of FFAR4 has been linked to a range of inflammatory and metabolic diseases, including:
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): FFAR4 is highly expressed in colonic epithelial cells and immune cells in IBD patients. Its activation promotes inflammation, suggesting a role in the pathogenesis of IBD.
- Obesity and Diabetes: FFAR4 is implicated in glucose and lipid metabolism. Its dysregulation can contribute to insulin resistance, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
- Cardiovascular Disease: FFAR4 activation in immune cells can promote atherosclerosis and plaque formation, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events.
- Asthma and Allergies: FFAR4 is involved in immune responses in the respiratory tract. Its activation can contribute to airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness in asthma and allergies.
- Cancer: FFAR4 is expressed in certain cancer cells and plays a role in tumor growth and metastasis.
Did you Know ?
According to a study published in the journal Nature Immunology, mice lacking FFAR4 exhibit reduced inflammatory responses and improved survival in models of IBD. This suggests that targeting FFAR4 could be a promising approach for treating IBD and other inflammatory diseases.
