Anti-AP4 antibody

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

AP4 also known as Adaptor Protein Complex 4 plays an important role in the transport of molecules within the cell. It operates as part of the family of adaptor protein complexes involved in trafficking cargo proteins between membranes. AP4 is a medium-sized protein complex with a mass ranging approximately from 300 to 500 kDa. It predominantly expresses itself in neuronal tissues where it facilitates intracellular trafficking and protein sorting essential for cellular functions.

Biological function summary

AP4 is an essential piece of the vesicular transport machinery. It interacts with various cargo proteins sorting them into distinct vesicles for different cellular destinations. AP4 functions as part of a complex that includes other adaptins and accessory proteins each contributing specialized roles for accurate protein sorting. These interactions play significant roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis and normal neuronal function.

Pathways

AP4 is intimately involved in the endosomal-lysosomal pathway and clathrin-mediated endocytosis. These pathways are important for proper cellular protein recycling and degradation processes. AP4 also associates with other proteins like AP1 and AP2 which overlap in the sorting at different cellular locations. These connections make AP4 an essential component of the broader protein transport network within cells.

Associated diseases and disorders

Research links AP4 to certain neurodegenerative conditions and hereditary spastic paraplegia. Mutations in AP4-related genes can disrupt normal protein trafficking affecting neuronal health potentially through a combined action with the SNX3 protein. AP4’s dysfunction in these contexts illustrates its importance in maintaining neural connectivity and function highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target in related disorders.