SSTR4
The enigmatic sstr4 gene: Unraveling its significance in health and disease
Description
The sstr4 gene, short for somatostatin receptor 4, encodes the somatostatin receptor subtype 4, a member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family. GPCRs are key players in cellular communication, receiving signals from extracellular molecules and translating them into intracellular responses.
The sstr4 receptor specifically binds to somatostatin, a hormone that regulates various physiological processes, including neurotransmission, endocrine secretion, and cell proliferation. By interacting with somatostatin, sstr4 modulates intracellular signaling pathways, influencing gene expression, protein synthesis, and cellular activity.
Associated Diseases
Disruptions in the sstr4 gene have been linked to several diseases and conditions:
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Neuroendocrine tumors: Mutations in sstr4 have been identified in a subset of neuroendocrine tumors, including pituitary tumors, pancreatic tumors, and carcinoid tumors. These tumors exhibit abnormal growth and hormonal imbalances.
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Pediatric CNS tumors: Alterations in sstr4 expression have been observed in certain pediatric central nervous system tumors, such as medulloblastomas and gliomas, which arise from cells in the brain and spinal cord.
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Neurodegenerative diseases: Research suggests a possible role for sstr4 in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer‘s disease and Parkinson‘s disease.
Did you Know ?
According to a recent study, approximately 10% of neuroendocrine tumors harbor mutations in the sstr4 gene, highlighting its potential significance in the pathogenesis of these tumors.
