PPP2R4
PPP2R4, also known as Protein Phosphatase 2 Regulatory Subunit B' Regulatory Subunit 4, is a human gene that encodes a regulatory subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A). PP2A is one of the four major Ser/Thr phosphatases and is implicated in the negative control of cell growth and division. It consists of a common catalytic subunit, a structural subunit, and a regulatory subunit. The regulatory subunit encoded by PPP2R4 belongs to the B' family.
Function:
The protein encoded by PPP2R4 functions as a regulatory subunit of PP2A heterotrimeric enzymes, influencing substrate specificity and enzyme activity. PP2A is involved in a variety of cellular processes, including DNA replication, signal transduction, cell cycle regulation, and apoptosis. Specifically, PPP2R4 has been implicated in stress responses, DNA damage repair, and the regulation of certain signaling pathways.
Gene Location:
The human PPP2R4 gene is located on chromosome 11q23.1.
Protein Structure:
The protein encoded by the PPP2R4 gene is a member of the PP2A B regulatory subunit family. These regulatory subunits bind to the core enzyme (catalytic and structural subunits) of PP2A, modulating the enzyme's activity and targeting it to specific substrates.
Clinical Significance:
Aberrant expression or mutations in PPP2R4 have been associated with various diseases, including certain types of cancer. Research suggests that altered PP2A activity due to dysregulation of PPP2R4 can contribute to tumor development and progression. Further investigation is ongoing to fully elucidate the role of PPP2R4 in human health and disease.